Trim, leaving most of the stem on, quarter, and remove the chokes from:
5 medium artichokes
As you work, rub the cut surfaces with:
1 lemon, halved
Bring to a boil in a stockpot:
12 cups water
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons salt
Add the artichokes and boil, uncovered, until tender but firm, about 5 minutes. Drain, pat dry, then slice the quarters into halves or thirds. Toss them in a 13x9-inch baking dish with:
2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large clove garlic, slivered
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cook, stirring twice, until the artichokes have begun to color and crisp in places, about 30 minutes. Remove and serve just as they are, or sprinkle with a mixture of:
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, fresh tarragon, or fresh chervil
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
Or serve at room temperature, accompanied by individual dipping bowls of:
Tuna Sauce or Mustard Mayonnaise or Southeast Asian Peanut Dipping Sauce