Tomato Braised Leeks

Transform simple leeks into a show-stopping vegetarian side dish with this Tomato Braised Leeks recipe! Tender, sweet leeks are simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of thyme. Infused with layers of flavor from a slow braise in vegetable broth, this dish is finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice and parsley for a bright, zesty touch. With its hearty, comforting appeal and a prep time of just 15 minutes, it's as easy as it is elegant. Perfect for serving with crusty bread or as an accompaniment to grains like rice or quinoa, this dish is a great way to elevate everyday vegetables into a memorable meal. Whether you're seeking a plant-based entrée or a sophisticated side dish, these tomato-braised leeks are sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 80/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 14-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoons dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Trim the leeks by cutting off the root ends and the tough dark green tops, leaving only the tender white and light green parts. Slice each leek in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4

Place the leeks cut-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and develop a light golden color.

Step 5

Turn the leeks over and season them with the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 6

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then stir gently to combine. The liquid should mostly cover the leeks; if needed, add a little more broth or water.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and braise the leeks for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 8

Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 9

Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.

Step 10

Serve the tomato-braised leeks warm, with crusty bread or over cooked grains like rice or quinoa if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1294.5 grams (1294.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	810

Total Fat 33.10g	42%
Saturated Fat 5.00g	25%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.40g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1901mg	83%
Total Carbohydrate 122.80g	45%
Dietary Fiber 19.40g	69%
Total Sugars 39.10g
Protein 17.20g	34%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 503mg	39%
Iron 19mg	104%
Potassium 2588mg	55%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.7%

Protein: 8.0%

Carbs: 57.3%