I had artichokes last night with my favorite accompaniment - salmon steak. The chokes are enough of a challenge, I prepare them first and when they're ready, set them aside and rub salmon steaks (one per person) with seasonings like dill, cracked pepper and/or paprika and slap them on a grill-pan. The flavor and color compliment artichokes so well (and they're both elegant). Quick side dish - couscous.