MARINATED ARTICHOKE HEARTS WITH GREEN OLIVES AND MOZZARELLA

Steps:

• Fit a large pot with a steamer rack; add water until it reaches just below rack. Place artichokes in steamer, stem-sides up. (If necessary to fit, trim top third from each with a serrated knife.) Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and steam, adding more water as needed, until the tip of a knife slides in and out of stems easily, 30 to 35 minutes. Remove artichokes; when cool enough to handle, remove leaves and reserve for another use. Scoop out and discard chokes. Cut hearts into halves or quarters.
• Combine oil, peppercorns, thyme sprigs, lemon zest, garlic, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook until bubbles form around edges; remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, then artichoke hearts; let stand, tossing occasionally, until cool, about 30 minutes. Stir in olives. (Dish can be made to this point and refrigerated in an airtight container up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.)
• Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Brush cut sides of bread with oil; season with kosher salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet; toast until golden brown on edges, about 8 minutes.
• Arrange artichoke mixture on a platter with cheese. Garnish with thyme sprigs and flowers, sprinkle with Hawaiian or kosher salt, drizzle generously with oil, and serve with toast.