Poireaux Vinaigrette (Marinated Leeks with Herbs)

Name: Marinated Leeks with Herbs (Poireaux Vinaigrette)
Total time: PT0D0H0M
Yield: serves 4
Ingredients: 8 medium leeks, trimmed of tough green parts; Kosher salt, to taste; 5 tbsp. red wine vinegar; 2 tsp. Dijon mustard; Freshly ground white pepper, to taste; 7 tbsp. peanut oil; 8 sprigs parsley; 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped

Serves
serves 4

TODD COLEMAN

The origins of leeks vinaigrette—poached leeks in a mustardy dressing—are unknown, but it's easy to imagine someone pulling them out of the stockpot once they had worked their magic, then seasoning them. As a Paris bistro owner put it, "Leeks have all the advantages: They're nourishing, cheap, and tasty."—Megan Wetherall

Ingredients

8 medium leeks, trimmed of tough green parts
Kosher salt, to taste
5 tbsp. red wine vinegar
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
Freshly ground white pepper, to taste
7 tbsp. peanut oil
8 sprigs parsley
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped

ADVERTISEMENTAD

Instructions

Step 1

Starting about 1" above root end, slice leeks lengthwise, but not all the way through. Open leeks like a book and wash well in cold running water to remove all sand and dirt. Bring a 12" deep-sided skillet of salted water to a boil, add leeks, and cook over medium heat until soft but not mushy, about 6 minutes. Transfer leeks to a large bowl of ice water to stop them from cooking further. Carefully split leeks completely in half lengthwise, and transfer to a rack, cut side down, to drain thoroughly.

Step 2

Whisk vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper together in a small bowl. Gradually add oil, whisking constantly, until vinaigrette is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings and set aside. Remove leaves from 4 of the parsley sprigs, chop leaves, and set aside.

Step 3

Divide leek halves equally among 4 warm salad plates. Drizzle vinaigrette over leeks, and sprinkle with chopped parsley and egg. Garnish each plate with a sprig of parsley.

See all 150 classic recipes featured in our 150th issue »