BAKED ARTICHOKE DIP WITH WINTER CRUDITES

3 cans (14 ounces each) artichoke hearts in water
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
2 teaspoons coarse salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (3 ounces)
1 cup grated pecorino cheese (3 ounces)
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped, plus leaves for garnish
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs

Sliced fennel, radishes, carrots, celery, and cauliflower florets, for serving
DIRECTIONS
1.
Remove leaves from 1 artichoke heart; pat dry, and reserve. Thinly slice remaining artichokes; pat dry.
2.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Whisk in milk, and bring to a boil. Add salt, pepper, and cayenne, and simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in cheeses.
3.
Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook 3 minutes. Add thyme, garlic, and sliced artichokes, and cook for 3 minutes. Add to cheese mixture along with zest. Transfer to an 8-cup baking dish. Top with reserved artichoke leaves. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
4.
Bake until golden and bubbling, about 15 minutes. Let cool slightly. Garnish with thyme leaves. Serve with crudités