Lemon-Infused Steamed Leeks and Spinach Medley
This delightful Lemon-Infused Steamed Leeks and Spinach Medley showcases a harmonious blend of flavors that bring out the best in both vegetables. The sweetness of steamed leeks complements the earthy taste of fresh spinach, enhanced by the aromatic hints of tarragon. A splash of fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that elevates the dish, making it a perfect side or light main course. Adjust the seasoning to your liking with salt and pepper, and enjoy this nutritious dish that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Leeks
4 (cleaned, green tops discarded, white parts cut into 1-inch sections)
Spinach
1 lb (washed, stems removed)
Fresh Tarragon
1 teaspoon (or 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon)
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Fresh Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing your leeks: clean them thoroughly, discarding the green tops and cutting the white parts into 1-inch sections.
2
In a steamer pot, arrange the chopped leeks and sprinkle with fresh tarragon. Steam for approximately 7 minutes, allowing the leeks to become tender and fragrant.
3
Once the leeks are cooked, add the washed spinach directly into the steamer. Continue steaming for an additional 3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and is heated through.
4
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice until combined.
5
Once the vegetables are done steaming, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the lemon and oil mixture over the leeks and spinach, ensuring even coverage.
6
Season with salt and pepper to taste just before serving, or allow each guest to season their portion according to preference. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lemon-Infused Steamed Leeks and Spinach Medley?
It is a nutritious vegetable dish that combines steamed leeks and spinach with tarragon, olive oil, and a zesty lemon dressing.
How many leeks are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 leeks.
What part of the leek is used in the dish?
Only the white parts of the leeks are used; the green tops should be discarded or saved for other uses.
How should the leeks be prepared?
Clean the leeks thoroughly and cut the white parts into 1-inch sections.
How much spinach is needed?
You will need 1 lb of fresh spinach.
Should the spinach stems be removed?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the spinach should be washed and the stems removed.
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of fresh tarragon with 1/2 teaspoon of dried tarragon.
How much olive oil is used in the dressing?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How much lemon juice is required?
The dressing requires 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
How long should I steam the leeks?
The leeks should be steamed for approximately 7 minutes until tender.
When do I add the tarragon?
Sprinkle the fresh tarragon over the chopped leeks in the steamer pot before you begin steaming them.
How long do I steam the spinach?
The spinach should be steamed for an additional 3 minutes after the leeks are cooked.
How do I know the spinach is done?
The spinach is ready when it has wilted and is heated through.
How is the dressing prepared?
Whisk together the olive oil and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until combined.
When do I add the dressing to the vegetables?
Drizzle the lemon and oil mixture over the leeks and spinach once they have been transferred to a serving platter.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products.
Is the dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Is this a low-calorie dish?
Yes, it is tagged as a low-calorie healthy side dish.
What are the total ingredients needed?
There are 7 ingredients: leeks, spinach, tarragon, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
How do I season the dish?
Season with salt and pepper to taste just before serving.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as a light main course or a side dish.
What equipment is needed?
You will need a steamer pot and a small whisking bowl.
Can guests season their own portions?
Yes, you can allow each guest to season their portion with salt and pepper according to their preference.
What provides the sweetness in the dish?
The sweetness comes from the steamed leeks.
What provides the zesty note?
The zesty note is provided by the fresh lemon juice.
Why is tarragon used?
Tarragon provides aromatic hints that enhance the earthy taste of the spinach and sweetness of the leeks.
Is it important to clean the leeks?
Yes, leeks often trap dirt between their layers, so thorough cleaning is essential.
What is the total steaming time?
The total steaming time is roughly 10 minutes (7 for leeks and 3 for spinach).
Should the dressing be whisked?
Yes, whisking ensures the oil and lemon juice are well combined before drizzling.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.