Herb-and-Lemon-Poached Baby Artichokes

In a large, deep skillet, combine the water with the juice of 2 of the lemons; add the 4 lemons to the water in the skillet. Working with 1 baby artichoke at a time, snap off all of the dark green outer leaves. Using a sharp knife, slice off the top half of the leaves and peel and trim the stem. Drop the baby artichokes into the lemon-infused water.

Add the 1 cup of olive oil and the white wine, onion, coriander seeds, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary, sage and bay leaves to the skillet. Bring to a simmer over moderately high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer until the artichokes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes. Let the artichokes cool in the cooking liquid for 30 minutes.

Transfer the artichokes to a work surface; discard the cooking liquid. Cut the artichokes in half lengthwise and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle the artichokes with a little olive oil, sprinkle with salt and serve warm or at room temperature.