10+ Leek Recipes to Brighten Up Your Meals

Leeks are a versatile ingredient that can bring a unique flavor to many dishes.

Exploring various leek recipes can inspire you to create healthy and delicious meals.

Whether you are looking to make a comforting soup, a savory tart, or a simple side dish, leeks can be the star of the show.

Their mild onion-like flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making them suitable for different cuisines and occasions.

1) Grilled Leeks with Lemon Vinaigrette

Grilled leeks with lemon vinaigrette make a tasty side dish that’s easy to prepare. The grilling adds a lovely char and depth of flavor. You can enjoy them as part of a meal or on their own.

To start, clean the leeks well and cut them lengthwise.

Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. You can also mix garlic or lemon juice into the oil for extra flavor.

Preheat your grill to about 400°F (200°C).

Place the leeks cut side down on the grill for about 5-7 minutes. After they develop char marks, flip them and grill for a few more minutes until tender.

Ingredients

• 2 large leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic, lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Clean and slice the leeks lengthwise.
2. Brush olive oil over the leeks and season them.
3. Preheat the grill to 400°F (200°C).
4. Grill leeks cut side down for 5-7 minutes.
5. Flip and grill for an additional few minutes until tender.

2) Salmon and Leek Frittata

A Salmon and Leek Frittata is a tasty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The combination of smoked salmon and sautéed leeks gives it a distinct flavor. You can enjoy this dish hot or cold.

To make this frittata, you’ll need eggs whisked with your favorite herbs and some creamy goat cheese. Pour the mixture over the leeks and let it cook until set.

This easy recipe is ideal for feeding guests or a family meal. It’s quick to prepare and looks elegant on the table.

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1 medium leek, sliced
• 4 ounces smoked salmon
• 3 ounces goat cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the leeks until soft.
3. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Add the salmon and goat cheese to the egg mixture.
5. Pour the mixture over the sautéed leeks.
6. Cook on medium-low until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.

3) Smoked Gouda and Leek Tart

This delicious tart combines the rich flavor of smoked Gouda with the sweetness of leeks. It’s perfect for a brunch or as a light dinner dish. You’ll enjoy its creamy texture and savory taste.

To make it, start by thawing a sheet of puff pastry. Prick it with a fork and lay in a mixture of sautéed leeks and cheeses. Then, bake until golden brown.

This tart is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed)
• 2 small leeks (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese (shredded)
• 1 egg (beaten)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the leeks in a bit of oil until soft.
3. Spread the leeks and smoked Gouda over the puff pastry.
4. Pour the beaten egg on top.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

4) Braised Leeks with Parmesan Crust

Braised leeks with a Parmesan crust are a delightful side dish. They are soft, savory, and have a crispy topping that adds a nice texture. This recipe is simple and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

To make this dish, start by trimming your leeks. Cut them in half and rinse to remove any dirt. You’ll then braise them in a mix of white wine and stock until they are tender.

Once the leeks are soft, top them with grated Parmesan cheese. Place them under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

These leeks pair well with many main dishes and are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 3 leeks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup dry white wine
• ⅓ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your broiler to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim and wash the leeks.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the leeks and cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the white wine and broth.
6. Cover and simmer until leeks are tender, around 15 minutes.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
8. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is golden.

5) Leek and Potato Soup

Leek and potato soup is a warm and comforting dish. It combines the mild flavor of leeks with creamy potatoes for a delicious experience. You can enjoy it as a starter or a main course.

To make this soup, start by sautéing leeks in butter until they soften. Then, add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Simmer until the potatoes are tender. Blend the mixture until smooth for a creamy texture.

You can serve this soup with a sprinkle of herbs or crispy bacon on top. It pairs well with crusty bread for a filling meal.

Ingredients

• 2 large leeks, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: herbs or bacon for topping

Cooking Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the leeks and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for a few minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
6. Blend the soup until smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

6) Turkish-Style Braised Leeks

Turkish-style braised leeks, or Zeytinyağlı Pırasa, is a simple but delicious dish. It features tender leeks cooked in olive oil, paired with carrots for added flavor and sweetness.

The dish is not only easy to prepare but also healthy. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

For a creamy twist, you can top the leeks with a garlicky yogurt sauce. This adds extra richness and balances the flavors perfectly.

Ingredients

• 5 large leeks
• 3 large carrots
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons short-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• Juice of 1 lemon

Cooking Instructions

1. Clean and slice the leeks and carrots.
2. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
3. Add the leeks and carrots; sauté for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, sugar, salt, and lemon juice.
5. Add enough water to cover; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and cover, simmering for 30 minutes.
7. Serve warm or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing side dish.

7) Roasted Leeks with Olive Oil

Roasted leeks are a simple yet delicious side dish. The combination of olive oil and leeks brings out a rich, sweet flavor that complements many meals.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, clean the leeks thoroughly. Cut off the dark green tops and slice them in half lengthwise.

Next, toss the leeks with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl until they are well-coated. Arrange them cut side down on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until they turn slightly golden.

These roasted leeks pair well with meats and fish. Enjoy their unique taste!

Ingredients:

• 2 leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Clean and prepare leeks by trimming ends.
3. Slice leeks in half lengthwise.
4. Toss leeks with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Place cut side down on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes until golden.

8) Sweet Potato and Leek Soup

Sweet Potato and Leek Soup is a comforting dish that’s both creamy and delicious. The combination of sweet potatoes and leeks creates a rich flavor that warms you up. It’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep.

To start, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Sauté the leeks in olive oil until they are soft. Add diced sweet potatoes, garlic, and a pinch of spices for extra flavor.

Pour in vegetable broth and let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender. Blend the soup until smooth for a creamy texture. You can finish with a swirl of coconut milk for added richness.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 large leek, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add sliced leeks and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic and diced sweet potatoes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

9) Creamed Leeks with Parmesan

Creamed leeks with Parmesan is a simple yet delicious side dish. The leeks become tender and sweet when cooked. Adding cream and Parmesan gives it a rich flavor.

To make this dish, start by washing and slicing the leeks. Sauté them in butter until they are soft. Pour in the cream and sprinkle with grated Parmesan for that cheesy goodness.

This creamy dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats or roasted veggies. You can enjoy it any time of year.

Ingredients

• 2 leeks, washed and thinly sliced (white only)
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup cream
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F / 180°C).
2. Add the sliced leeks and water. Sauté until soft.
3. Pour in the cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
4. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through, then serve.

10) Leek and Carrot Casserole

Leek and Carrot Casserole is a tasty and comforting dish. It combines tender leeks and sweet carrots baked in a creamy sauce. This casserole is perfect as a side or a main dish.

To make this casserole, you will need fresh leeks, carrots, cream, and cheese. The flavors blend beautifully, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté leeks and carrots until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add cream, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Enjoy!