Mediterranean Leek Salad Recipe

     

    

       

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      The Mediterranean diet is a culinary style that encompasses he traditional foods and cooking methods of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. These countries include Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Morocco, and others.

      Leek salad, being a part of Mediterranean cuisine, might be prepared and enjoyed in various countries around the Mediterranean region. It typically includes leeks as a primary ingredient along with other Mediterranean staples like olive oil, herbs, and sometimes feta cheese, olives, or tomatoes, depending on the specific variation.

**Ingredients:**

For the salad:

- 3-4 medium leeks

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

For the dressing:

- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- 1 garlic clove, minced

- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

- Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Leeks:**

   - Trim the dark green tops and root ends of the leeks, leaving the white and light green parts.

   - Cut the leeks in half lengthwise and rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or sand between the layers.

   - Thinly slice the leeks crosswise into half-moons.

2. **Blanch the Leeks:**

   - Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced leeks and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, until they are slightly softened but still retain their crunch.

   - Drain the leeks and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

   - Once cooled, drain the leeks again and pat them dry with a paper towel.

3. **Prepare the Dressing:**

   - In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

4. **Assemble the Salad:**

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched leeks, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.

5. **Add the Dressing:**

   - Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients.

6. **Toss and Serve:**

   - Gently toss all the ingredients until they are well coated with the dressing and evenly combined.

7. **Serve:**

   - Transfer the Mediterranean Leek Salad to a serving platter or individual plates.

8. **Garnish:**

   - You can garnish the salad with additional chopped herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and some cracked black pepper if desired.

9. **Enjoy!**

   - Serve the salad as a light and refreshing appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. It's best enjoyed fresh.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like roasted red peppers, cucumber, or even toasted pine nuts for added crunch. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Leek Salad!