Elevate your next meal with these elegant Wine Braised Leeks with Red Pepper Shiitakes, a dish that seamlessly blends rich, earthy flavors with a pop of vibrant color. Tender leeks are gently braised to perfection in a luxurious blend of dry white wine, vegetable broth, and aromatic thyme, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dish is beautifully complemented by sautéed shiitake mushrooms and sweet red bell peppers, finished with a splash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty twist. This versatile vegetarian recipe is easy to prepare in just 50 minutes and works wonderfully as a stunning side dish or a light, flavorful entrée. Perfect for dinner parties or intimate weeknight dinners, this recipe is a true celebration of seasonal produce and simple gourmet cooking.
Trim the ends and dark green tops of the leeks, leaving the pale green and white parts. Slice each leek in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Place the leeks cut-side down in a single layer in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown on the cut side.
Flip the leeks over, then add the minced garlic and thyme sprigs to the skillet. Pour in the white wine and vegetable broth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the leeks braise for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and easily pierced with a knife.
While the leeks are braising, prepare the red pepper shiitakes. Remove the stems from the shiitake mushrooms and slice the caps into thin strips. Dice the red bell pepper into small pieces.
In a separate skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
Add the diced red bell pepper to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Remove from heat and set aside.
When the leeks are finished braising, carefully transfer them to a serving dish using tongs. Spoon the red pepper shiitake mixture over the leeks, making sure to distribute evenly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm as a side dish or light entrée.
Calories |
1211 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.9 g | 91% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.4 g | 107% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 3036 mg | 132% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 97.8 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.3 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 29.8 g | ||
| Protein | 16.8 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 322 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 12.6 mg | 70% | |
| Potassium | 2324 mg | 49% | |
*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.