-
1
Squeeze juice from 2 of the lemons into large bowl; add in 3 c. water.
-
2
Set aside.
-
3
Work with 1 artichoke at a time and rub all cut edges with remaining lemon halves as you cut.
-
4
Break off outer leaves.
-
5
Slice off stem to create flat base.
-
6
Using paring knife, round off edge of base.
-
7
Cut off top of leaves, leaving about 1 inch attached to base.
-
8
Using small spoon, scoop out fuzzy choke inside artichoke.
-
9
Drop into lemon water mix; place plate over artichokes to keep them submerged.
-
10
Drain artichokes; cut into quarters and place in dry bowl.
-
11
Toss with 2 tbsp of the extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper.
-
12
Arrange in single layer in baking dish; bake in 400 F oven till tender and browned at edges, about 15 min.
-
13
(Make-ahead: Let cold, cover and chill for up to 24 hrs.)
-
14
Meanwhile, in large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta till tender but hard, about 10 min.
-
15
Drain, reserving 1/2 c. cooking liquid; return pasta to pot.
-
16
In large skillet, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat; fry pancetta till slightly crisp, about 2 min.
-
17
Add in onion, garlic and marjoram; fry, stirring, till softened, about 3 min.
-
18
Add in sun-dry tomatoes, lemon rind and artichokes; heat through and pour over pasta.
-
19
Add in reserved cooking liquid and grated Parmesan; toss to coat.
-
20
Serve in warmed pasta bowls; sprinkle with basil and shaved Parmesan.
-
21
(Substitution: For fresh artichokes, you can substitute 2 cans, (14 ounce each), artichoke hearts.
-
22
Drain, rinse and halve; omit baking step.)