(Janet Airis)
CRAB/ARTICHOKE DIP
1 (9-oz) package frozen artichoke hearts
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups half-and-half
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 oz finely grated parmesan (1/2 cup)
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon celery salt
3/4 lb jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over
Preheat oven to 375 F.
Cook artichoke hearts according to package instructions, then drain well and finely chop (or use bottled artichokes). Cook bell pepper in 1 tablespoon butter in a 2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in artichokes and transfer mixture to a bowl. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in saucepan over moderately low heat, then add flour and cook roux, stirring, 3 minutes. Add half-and-half in a stream, whisking, and bring to a boil, whisking. Reduce heat and simmer, whisking, 3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in artichoke mixture, scallions, 1/3 cup parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and celery salt. Gently stir in crab. Transfer to a buttered 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish and sprinkle with remaining parmesan.
Bake dip in middle of oven until bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm. Dip can be prepared (but not baked) 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.
Serve with water crackers, pita bread or toasts