Elevate your vegetable side dishes with this elegant recipe for *Leeks Tossed in Balsamic Vinaigrette*. Tender, poached leeks are delicately flavored with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette featuring extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and a hint of garlic. This simple yet sophisticated dish is garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbal brightness. Perfect for serving warm, at room temperature, or chilled, this recipe offers versatility for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or a refined weeknight meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, these leeks shine as a light, flavorful centerpiece or as a refreshing complement to hearty mains.
Trim the root ends and dark green tops of the leeks, leaving the tender white and light green parts. Slice them in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or sand between the layers.
Bring water to a boil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
Place the leeks in the boiling water and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape. Test with a fork for doneness.
While the leeks are cooking, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
Drain the cooked leeks and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess water. Let them cool slightly.
Arrange the leeks on a serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette generously over the leeks, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled as desired. Enjoy!
Calories |
922 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.1 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.7 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1478 mg | 64% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 100.5 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.2 g | 40% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.6 g | ||
| Protein | 9.6 g | 19% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 497 mg | 38% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 1408 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.