Leeks

Leeks (Allium ampeloprasum) are long leafy stalks that resemble green onions but at a much larger size. They are known to be cultivated as an annual crop in Asian and European countries. Leeks are mild and sweet in flavor, and have a tender texture when cooked, often added to soups and stir fries.  

Some flavors that pair well with Leeks include: onions, garlic, lemon, vinegar, carrots, herbs, spices, chicken, eggs 

Leeks are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, Vitamin A, folic acid, and other antioxidants. Source: https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/leeks 

Methods of Preparation

Recipes

Roasted Leeks

Total Time: 45 minutes               Servings: 4Source: https://healthyrecipesblogs.com/roasted-leeks/#recipe

Ingredients 

• 6 leeks 
• 3 tbsp olive oil 
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper 

Directions

1. Preheat oven at 425℉ to roast. 
2. Prepare the leeks by trimming the bottom and the dark greens. Rinse under water to remove any dirt and dry well. 
3. Arrange the leeks in a baking dish with the cut side down. Drizzle with olive oil and use your hands to coat the leeks evenly. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. 
4. Roast for 20 minutes, remove from the oven, flip the leeks over, sprinkle with parmesan, and roast again for 5-10 more minutes. 
5. Check for a golden brown color and fork-tenderness and serve! 

Sauteed Leeks

Total Time: 25 minutes                Servings: 4Source: https://www.saltandlavender.com/sauteed-leeks/

Ingredients 

• 4 medium-large leeks 
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• ¼ cup butter (half a stick)
• 2 clove garlic 
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 tsp pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the leeks by trimming off the ends and dark green portions. Slice the bulbs into thin rings. Rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt. 
2. Add oil and butter to a pan over medium-high heat. 
3. Stir in the garlic until fragrant. 
4. Add the leeks to the pan and toss until completely coated in the butter/oil. Turn the heat down to medium and saute for 7-10 minutes, until tender but not mushy. 
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve! 

Braised Leeks

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes                Servings: 4-6Source: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/12667-braised-leeks-with-parmesan

Ingredients

• 6 leeks 
• 2 tbsp olive oil 
• ½ cup dry white wine 
• ⅓ cup parmesan 
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 tsp pepper

Directions

1. Prepare leeks by trimming the ends and removing dark greens. Rinse thoroughly under water to remove any dirt and dry. 
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and place the leeks in one layer, cut side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip the pieces over and brown for another 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and flip them over back to the cut side down. If outside layers are papery, peel and discard. 
3. Pour in the wine and stir to deglaze. Add enough water to cover the leeks just to the top and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. 
4. Preheat the oven to broil. 
5. Transfer leeks to a baking sheet and with the flat side up. Sprinkle with parmesan and place into oven until cheese has melted and browned. 
6. Serve!