When the obligation to entertain comes your way, whip up this simple crowd pleasing appetizer.  If you want more of a dip, you can pulse in a food processor, but leaving it chunky separates the pleasure of the briny artichokes and the salty cheese. In the summer, or in a time crunch, you can choose to microwave the mixture instead, which also makes it easier to serve in the baking dish.

1 can of quartered artichokes (in water)

2 scallions, sliced thin

1 garlic clove, minced

2T mayonnaise

1T basil, chopped

1/2c feta cheese

Hot pepper flakes to taste

Crackers

Preheat oven to 375.  Combine all ingredients in an ovenproof serving dish, or pulse in a food processor for a finer dip, and bake for 25 minutes.  Serve with crackers.

Cooking time: 30 minutes, or 10 minutes if using a microwave

Serves 4-6