Penne with artichokes and pancetta

To prepare globe artichokes

1. Have a pot of cold lemon water on hand.
2. Cut off the stems.
3. Peel the hearts right back, removing the choke and cut the hearts in half.
4. Peel the outer layer of the stems off.
5. Rub all surfaces with lemon juice directly so they don't discolour.
6. Put all pieces of artichoke in the pot and bring to the boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer and cook until just soft, about 20 minutes.

Penne

1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to the boil.
2. Cook the pasta for about 8 minutes or until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, heat a large fry pan and add a litttle extra virgin olive oil.
4. Add the pancetta and salt and fry 2 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and chilli flakes and reduce the heat a little.
6. Add the artichokes, pepper and thyme and toss through.
7. When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add to the sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper.
8. Finish with lemon juice, freshly grated parmesan and parsley.