Simmered Leeks
Transform simple leeks into an elegant side dish with this recipe for Simmered Leeks, a celebration of earthy flavors and delicate textures. Gently cooked in a fragrant blend of butter, olive oil, and vegetable or chicken broth, these melt-in-your-mouth leeks become irresistibly tender and subtly caramelized. Perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper, and optionally garnished with fresh parsley, this dish strikes a balance between rustic comfort and refined sophistication. Quick and easy to prepare in just 35 minutes, Simmered Leeks pair beautifully with roasted meats, fish, or vegetarian entrees, making them an excellent addition to any meal. With their mild sweetness and luxurious texture, these leeks are sure to impress as a crowd-pleasing side dish.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 large leeks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Trim the dark green tops and roots from the leeks, leaving the white and pale green parts intact.
Slice each leek lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit, being careful to separate the layers slightly to wash inside.
Cut the leeks into 2-inch pieces and set aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
Add the leeks to the pan, cut side down, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Cook the leeks for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a light golden color on the cut sides.
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pan, ensuring the liquid comes about halfway up the sides of the leeks. Adjust the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the leeks simmer for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the leeks to a serving dish.
If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Serve warm as a side dish to complement roasted meats, fish, or vegetarian mains.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
724 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.3 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.2 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 3329 mg | 145% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 89.4 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.0 g | 43% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.8 g | ||
| Protein | 10.1 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 402 mg | 31% | |
| Iron | 14.9 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 1532 mg | 33% | |
*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.
