Ingredients

  • 1 (9-ounce) 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 ounces finely grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced drained pickled jalapeno chiles
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
  • 3/4 pound jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over

Method

  • Preheat oven to 375F.
  • Cook artichoke hearts according to package instructions, then drain well and finely chop.
  • 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, jalapenos, 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.