Artichoke Salad with Warm Tomato Vinaigrette

Snap tough outer leaves off artichokes; using a serrated knife, remove top third from each. Trim stems so artichokes stand upright. Rub cut surfaces with lemon (to prevent discoloration).

Place artichokes in a wide pot, stemmed-sides up. Add enough water to come about a third of the way up sides. Season water with salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and steam until artichoke hearts are tender when pierced with the tip of a knife, about 30 minutes.

Transfer artichokes, stemmed-sides up, to a towel-lined plate to drain. When cool enough to handle, use a spoon to remove center leaves from each artichoke, then to scrape out and discard chokes. Transfer artichokes to refrigerator.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss bread with 2 tablespoons oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake until golden and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes.

Cook bacon in a small nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until fat has rendered and bacon is crisp, 4 to 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels; discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet.

Add 1 tablespoon oil, shallot, and a pinch of salt to skillet; cook over medium heat until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons vinegar and capers; cook until reduced slightly, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in tomato and season with salt and pepper; cook until heated through, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in oregano and croutons. Season to taste.

Score an X in the inside of each artichoke heart with the tip of a knife, then spoon about 1 tablespoon dressing mixture into each. Toss remaining dressing with chicories, basil, bacon, and remaining 1 tablespoon oil and 1 teaspoon vinegar. Season to taste; divide between artichokes and serve.