Creamy Sautéed Leeks and Spinach
Explore the delightful flavors of creamy sautéed leeks and fresh spinach with this simple yet elegant dish. Perfect as a side or a light main course, this recipe combines the gentle sweetness of leeks with the earthy taste of spinach, all enveloped in a rich, buttery sauce. Ideal for any occasion, serve it alongside grilled meats or toss it with pasta for a satisfying vegetarian meal. Enjoy a dish that is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
leeks
3 large (Trimmed, sliced in half lengthwise, and chopped)
butter
1 tablespoon (Unsalted)
flour
2 tablespoons (All-purpose)
chicken stock or beef stock
2/3 cup (Low-sodium preferred)
nutmeg
to taste (Freshly grated for the best flavor)
salt
to taste (Adjust according to preference)
spinach
1 bunch (Washed, picked, and finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the leeks. Trim off the tough green tops, leaving only the white and pale green parts. Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, then chop them into short pieces crosswise.
2
Thoroughly wash the leeks under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Drain them well and set them aside.
3
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the drained leeks and sauté until they soften and start to break down, about 8-10 minutes.
4
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed leeks and stir well to combine, allowing it to cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5
Gradually pour in the chicken or beef stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Season lightly with salt and freshly grated nutmeg. Continue to stir until the mixture is well combined.
6
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
7
While the leeks are simmering, prepare the spinach. Wash it thoroughly, remove any tough stems, and chop it finely. Drain well to remove excess moisture.
8
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet with the leeks and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the spinach is evenly cooked and wilted.
9
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and nutmeg if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or main course.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Sautéed Leeks and Spinach?
It is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the gentle sweetness of leeks with the earthy taste of spinach in a rich, buttery sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include 3 large leeks, 1 bunch of spinach, butter, flour, chicken or beef stock, nutmeg, and salt.
How do I prepare the leeks for this recipe?
Trim off the tough green tops, slice the white and pale green parts in half lengthwise, and then chop them into short pieces crosswise.
What is the best way to clean leeks?
Thoroughly wash the chopped leeks under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit, then drain them well before cooking.
What type of butter should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
How long should I sauté the leeks?
Sauté the leeks over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes until they soften and start to break down.
Why is flour added to the leeks?
Flour is used as a thickening agent to create the creamy consistency of the sauce.
How much flour is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
How long should the flour cook with the leeks?
Stir the flour into the leeks and let it cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
What type of stock is recommended for this dish?
You can use 2/3 cup of either chicken or beef stock, preferably low-sodium.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, while the recipe mentions chicken or beef stock, you can substitute with vegetable stock to make it fully vegetarian.
How is the sauce seasoned?
The sauce is seasoned with salt and freshly grated nutmeg to taste.
Why is freshly grated nutmeg recommended?
Freshly grated nutmeg provides the best flavor compared to pre-ground versions.
How long does the sauce mixture need to simmer?
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes before adding the spinach.
How should the spinach be prepared?
The spinach should be washed thoroughly, have tough stems removed, and then be finely chopped and drained.
When do I add the spinach to the skillet?
Add the spinach after the leek and stock mixture has finished its initial 10-minute simmer.
How long does the spinach take to cook?
Simmer the spinach with the leeks for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently until wilted.
How do I ensure the sauce doesn't clump?
Gradually pour in the stock while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming with the flour.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as a light main course or tossed with pasta for a more filling vegetarian meal.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
It is an ideal side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetable course.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dish that is packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe is categorized under Vegetable dishes.
How many leeks are needed?
The recipe requires 3 large leeks.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include leeks, spinach, vegetables, sautéed, creamy, healthy, easy recipe, side dish, and vegetarian.
Can I adjust the seasoning at the end?
Yes, after the final simmer, taste the dish and add more salt or nutmeg if needed.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is considered an 'easy recipe' with straightforward preparation and cooking steps.
Should the leeks be drained after washing?
Yes, it is important to drain the leeks well to avoid adding excess water to the skillet.
What parts of the leeks are discarded?
The tough, dark green tops are trimmed off and generally not used in this specific dish.
How should this dish be served?
The dish should be served warm for the best flavor and texture.