Grilled until they're lightly charred outside and tender within, these leeks are terrific served with a spicy twist on the classic Spanish almond sauce. Here, the romesco is made with grilled shishitos and crushed red pepper so it has multiple layers of heat.
Ingredients
- 8 large leeks, white and light green parts only
- 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
- kosher salt
- pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- 12 shishito peppers, stemmed
- 1 cup lightly packed parsley
- 1/2 cup toasted marcona almonds
- 2 tbsp fresh bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Light a grill. Halve the leeks lengthwise through the light green part; leave the white parts and root attached. Rinse under cold water. Brush with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over moderately low heat, turning, until charred outside, 25 minutes. Transfer to a platter and cover with plastic wrap; let steam for 15 minutes.
- Discard the charred outside and return the leeks to the platter. Toss with the garlic, red pepper and 1/4 cup of the oil and season with salt and pepper; let stand for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, grill the shishitos over high heat, turning, until lightly charred, 2 minutes. Transfer to a food processor and let cool slightly. Add the parsley, almonds, bread crumbs, lemon zest and juice and pulse until minced. With the machine on, add the remaining 1/2 cup of oil. Season with salt and pepper. Serve the leeks with the shishito romesco.
Make Ahead: The marinated leeks and romesco can be refrigerated separately overnight. Return to room temperature before serving.
America's Best Brunch Spots
Best Chicken Dishes in the U.S.
Best Ethnic Food in the U.S.
Best Burgers in the U.S.
America's Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
Recipe Credit: Eii Kulp
Image Credit: Christina Holmes
