Cardoons a la Greque

Directions

1. 1
   Trim the cardoons as you would celery.
2. 2
   Scrape the ribbed side of each stalk with a sharp knife to remove strings and any brown skin.
3. 3
   Cut them into 1/4-inch-thick slices, dropping the slices in a bowl of cold water.
4. 4
   Combine the water, milk, salt, and sugar in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer.
5. 5
   Add the sliced cardoons, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. 6
   Rinse under cold water and drain.
7. 7
   Stir the dressing ingredients together in a large bowl.
8. 8
   Toss the cardoons with the dressing.
9. 9
   Let the mixture stand for several hours, loosely covered, at room temperature, stirring occasionally.
10. 10
    Serve as a side dish or appetizer, scooping up the cardoons with a slotted spoon.