Creamy Garlic Parmesan Leeks
This cherished recipe, passed down from my husband, transforms humble leeks into a luxurious side dish. With their delicate flavor paired with rich cream and nutty parmesan, these leeks are sautéed to perfection. Quick to prepare and incredibly creamy, this dish makes a delightful accompaniment to any main course or a standout vegetarian option. Perfectly seasoned with cracked black pepper, it's sure to impress anyone at your dining table.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Leeks
2 (Washed well and thinly sliced (white only))
Water
3 tablespoons
Butter
1 tablespoon
Cream
1/2 cup (Heavy cream recommended)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (Grated)
Cracked black pepper
To taste (Freshly cracked)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the leeks to remove any grit or sand, then slice them thinly, discarding the dark green tops.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced leeks, water, and butter. Cover with a tightly fitting lid.
3
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and let the leeks simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and checking the liquid level.
4
After 15 minutes, the leeks should be tender and the liquid reduced. Stir in the cream, allowing it to heat through, then fold in the grated parmesan cheese until it's fully melted and incorporated. Season generously with cracked black pepper to taste.
5
Serve warm as a decadent side dish and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient of this dish?
The primary ingredient is 2 leeks, specifically the white and light green parts.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce 4 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Leeks is a standout vegetarian side dish option.
Which part of the leeks should I use?
You should use the white parts only, ensuring they are washed well and thinly sliced.
How should I prepare the leeks before cooking?
Wash the leeks thoroughly to remove any grit or sand, then slice them thinly and discard the dark green tops.
What type of cream is best for this recipe?
Heavy cream is recommended to achieve the richest and most luxurious texture.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of butter.
How much water is used in the cooking process?
You will need 3 tablespoons of water to simmer the leeks.
How long do the leeks need to simmer?
The leeks should simmer gently for approximately 15 minutes.
At what heat setting should the leeks simmer?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting for the 15-minute simmer.
Should the saucepan be covered while simmering?
Yes, you should cover the saucepan with a tightly fitting lid.
When do I add the parmesan cheese?
Add the parmesan cheese after the leeks are tender and the cream has been stirred in and heated through.
How much parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
How should I season the final dish?
Season the dish generously with freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This is a cherished recipe passed down from the creator's husband.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 6 total ingredients used in this recipe.
What is the suggested serving temperature?
This dish is best served warm as a decadent side dish.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, the recipe is described as quick to prepare and simple to follow.
Can I use the dark green tops of the leeks?
The recipe recommends discarding the dark green tops as they are much tougher than the white parts.
What should the texture of the leeks be after simmering?
The leeks should be tender and the initial cooking liquid should be reduced.
How do I ensure the parmesan is properly incorporated?
Fold the cheese into the warm mixture until it is fully melted and blended with the cream.
What makes this dish 'luxurious'?
The combination of tender leeks, rich heavy cream, and nutty parmesan cheese creates a luxurious profile.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its rich, creamy, and flavorful nature.
Should I stir the leeks while they simmer?
Yes, stir occasionally to ensure the leeks cook evenly and to check the liquid level.
What can I serve these leeks with?
They make a delightful accompaniment to any main course or can be served as a vegetarian standout.
Does the recipe use fresh pepper?
Yes, freshly cracked black pepper is specified for the best flavor.
How do I start the cooking process?
Combine the sliced leeks, water, and butter in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
Is there any salt added to the recipe?
The recipe does not list extra salt, as the parmesan cheese and butter typically provide enough salinity.
Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?
While heavy cream is recommended for the best results, you could use light cream, though the sauce may be less thick.
How do I know when to add the cream?
Add the cream after the 15-minute simmer when the leeks are tender and the water has mostly evaporated.