Elevate your meals with the fresh, vibrant flavors of Mediterranean Diet Steamed Leeks with Lemon and Olive Oil! This simple yet elegant recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tender steamed leeks, complemented perfectly by a zesty drizzle of lemon juice, aromatic minced garlic, and rich extra virgin olive oil. Steam the leeks to fork-tender perfection for a light, wholesome dish that's both nutritious and delicious. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, this recipe is ideal as a healthy side dish or a refreshing appetizer. Ready in just 25 minutes, itβs a Mediterranean delight thatβs as easy as it is full of flavor! Perfect for those seeking heart-healthy, plant-based recipes that are bursting with brightness and simplicity.
Trim the dark green tops and root ends of the leeks, leaving only the white and pale green parts. Slice each leek in half lengthwise and thoroughly rinse under running water to remove any dirt or grit between the layers.
Cut the cleaned leeks into 2-inch pieces. Set aside.
Peel and finely mince the garlic clove.
In a large pan with a lid or a steamer pot, add 1 cup of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Place the leeks in the steamer basket or directly in the pan, ensuring they are not submerged in water. Cover with the lid and steam the leeks for 8-10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Once the leeks are cooked, carefully remove them from the pan and transfer them to a serving platter. Discard any excess cooking water.
Drizzle the steamed leeks with the extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top.
Season with salt to taste and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light appetizer. Enjoy!
Calories |
615 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.1 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.3 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1310 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 87.9 g | 32% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.0 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.4 g | ||
| Protein | 9.1 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 395 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 14.3 mg | 79% | |
| Potassium | 1262 mg | 27% | |
*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.