Braised Mediterranean-Style Leeks
SEASON: Fall, winter, spring
VEGETARIAN
Beyond potato leek soup, many people don’t know what the heck to do with leeks. This dish is an easy and light way to show those leeks some love and impress your family at the same time. The chickpeas and feta bump up the protein and fat for a well-rounded meal, but you can also add fish or meat on the side.
Serves 4 to 6 | Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes
4 leeks
1½ cups vegetable broth
¼ cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon honey
2 lemons, zested and juiced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1.
Slice off the root end of the leeks, and slice them in half lengthwise. Rinse well between the layers to remove any dirt.
2.
Cut the stalks into 1-inch sections diagonally. Use the white and pale green portions, discarding the darkest part or repurposing it for stocks/soups.
3.
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium-high heat until it simmers. Put the leeks in the simmering broth and cover for 5 to 10 minutes.
4.
While the leeks are cooking, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5.
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, add the cooked leeks to the bowl, then toss them in the dressing. Discard the broth or save and reuse for other recipes.
6.
Add the chickpeas and feta to the leek mixture and serve topped with lemon zest.
Prep tip: When juicing a fresh lemon, slice in half and squeeze with the cut-side up to prevent seeds from falling down into the bowl.
VARIATIONS:
Braised Mediterranean-Style Celery: Swap the leeks with sliced celery, and serve your favorite meat or fish on top.
Lemony Leeks and Carrots with Parmesan: Replace 2 of the leeks with 2 medium carrots, cut in half lengthwise, and swap the feta with Parmesan.
PER SERVING: Calories: 344; Total fat: 21g; Carbohydrates: 32g; Fiber: 5g; Protein: 10g; Calcium: 221mg; Vitamin D: 5mcg; Vitamin B12 : 0mcg; Iron: 3mg; Zinc: 1mg