Steamed Globe Artichokes with Pecorino Vinaigrette and Fried Garlic Chips

Fill a medium bowl with water. Juice 1 lemon into water, and add rind. Trim artichoke stems to 1/2 inch, and remove tough outer leaves. Trim pointy tips of artichoke leaves using kitchen shears. Spread leaves apart to remove inner chokes by scraping with a small spoon. Transfer artichokes to lemon water as you work to prevent discoloration.

Fill a large pot with 2 inches water. Juice 1 lemon into water; bring to a simmer. Fit pot with a steamer-basket insert. Place artichokes upright in steamer. Simmer, covered, until artichokes are very tender when pierced with a paring knife, about 30 minutes.

Combine olive oil and garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until garlic is pale gold. Strain garlic; reserve oil. Transfer garlic chips to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.

Add butter to saucepan, and melt over medium-low heat. Whisk in reserved oil, the cheese, and lemon zest and juice. Pour a pool of vinaigrette into center of each artichoke, and drizzle remainder over tops. Sprinkle with garlic chips, and season with pepper.