Leek with olives and mushrooms

Delicious Leek Recipe with Olives and Mushrooms

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-5

I propose a savory and aromatic recipe, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends. The leek with olives and mushrooms is a dish that perfectly blends flavors and textures, making it not only tasty but also healthy. This dish is rich in nutrients, being a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Moreover, it is easy to prepare, being a quick and simple recipe, ideal for any occasion.

I invite you to discover each step of the recipe, accompanied by useful tips and information about the ingredients.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh leeks, as thin as possible
- 2 medium red onions
- 300 g small Kalamata olives
- 500 g medium-sized champignon mushrooms
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Warm water (about 500 ml)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the leeks:
Start by cleaning the leeks. Remove the first leaves, which may be tougher and worn. Cut off the ends and then slice the leeks into 4-5 cm pieces. This will allow the leeks to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

2. Sautéing the leeks:
In a large pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and slightly transparent. This will enhance the flavor of the leeks and prepare the base for the sauce.

3. Adding the onion:
Peel and finely chop the red onion. Add the onion to the pan over the leeks and continue to sauté for another 3-5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and releases its aroma.

4. Preparing the sauce:
In a small pot, add 2 tablespoons of flour and 1 tablespoon of oil. Mix well to form a paste, then gradually add warm water (about 500 ml), stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce over low heat until it thickens, then add the tomato paste and chopped olives. Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to combine.

5. Preparing the mushrooms:
Wash the champignon mushrooms, but there is no need to peel them, as the skin contains many nutrients and flavor. Cut the mushrooms into medium pieces. In another pan, add a little oil and sauté the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and release their juices.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Add the olive and mushroom sauce to the pan with leeks. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let it simmer together over low heat for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serving:
The leek with olives and mushrooms can be served warm or cold. It is delicious alongside a fresh salad or can be used as a filling for sandwiches. A personal suggestion is to serve it with toasted bread or a portion of boiled rice to absorb the flavorful sauce.

Useful tips:

- Choosing leeks: When selecting leeks, look for thin and firm stalks, vibrant green in color. Avoid stalks that have spots or are too dry.
- Mushrooms: If you want to vary the recipe, you can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Olives: Kalamata olives add a distinct flavor, but you can also use green olives for a different note.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Leeks are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based proteins and vitamins. Olives bring healthy fats and an intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of vegetable instead of leeks?
Yes, you can try broccoli or zucchini, but the cooking time may vary.

2. Is this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! It is a vegetarian recipe and can also be adapted for vegans, just omit the sauce that contains flour if it is not from vegan sources.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

4. What drinks pair well with this recipe?
It pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea.

I hope this leek recipe with olives and mushrooms brings you joy in the kitchen and becomes a favorite among your loved ones! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is a story waiting to be told. Enjoy every step of this creative process!