This delightful dish features tender leek rounds marinated in a sweet and tangy honey-mustard blend, enriched with a subtle umami twist from miso paste, and lightly pan-sizzly until their edges turn golden. Accented by minced garlic, this quick yet elegant side dish offers complexity of flavor without fuss, perfect for elevating weeknight meals or impressing guests.
Ingredients
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1 large leek
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3 cloves of garlic, minced
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Dressing components:
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon brown miso paste (or tamari/soy sauce as alternatives)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions
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Whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, salt, miso paste (or tamari/soy sauce), and olive oil to form the marinade.
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Slice the leek into roughly 5 cm thick rounds and combine with the minced garlic, letting them rest in the marinade for about 10 minutes.
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Transfer to a frying pan and cook over medium heat, sizzling each side for approximately 5 minutes, or until the leeks begin to caramelize and develop a rich, golden hue.
Serves 2 as a side dish. britishleeks.co.uk
Nutrients
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Calories: Approximately moderate, reflecting the use of plant-based ingredients and light dressing
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Fats: Low – primarily from the olive oil and trace fats in miso
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Sugar: Present, chiefly from the honey
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Sodium: Moderate, due to salt and miso—adjust to taste
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Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in fiber, B-vitamins, and phytonutrients from leek, plus trace minerals from miso
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe captivates with its balance of sweet, savory, and umami notes, courtesy of the honey-mustard-miso marinade. The elegant caramelization of leeks brings out their natural sweetness while adding a visually pleasing char. With minimal prep and cooking time, its refined flavors belie the simple technique—making it a gourmet yet accessible addition to any menu.
The Benefits of the Ingredients
Leeks contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and unique antioxidants that support heart health. Honey adds natural sweetness and offers light antibacterial properties. Dijon mustard provides a sharp depth with minimal calories, while miso paste delivers fermented richness and gut-friendly probiotics (if unpasteurized). Olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and helps bind the flavors into a coherent, luscious dressing.
Cooking Tips
To elevate this dish further, let the leeks soak longer in the dressing for deeper flavor infusion. Use a nonstick or well-seasoned pan to ensure even caramelization without sticking. Be gentle when flipping—I like to use a wide spatula to preserve the leek rounds’ shape. For added interest, you can toast sliced almonds and scatter them over just before serving or reserve them to sprinkle on individual portions for crunch and visual contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile side complements roasted meats, grilled fish, or tofu beautifully. It also works as part of a mezze spread or seasonal salad board. Pair it with a handful of crisp greens tossed in light vinaigrette, or serve atop warm toasted baguette slices for an elegant canapé. Drizzle a little extra dressing on the plate and garnish with toasted almond slivers or fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for an elevated presentation.
Conclusion
This honey-mustard marinated leeks recipe transforms humble vegetables into something truly memorable. With the perfect interplay of sweet, savory, and umami elements—and the satisfying texture of lightly caramelized leeks—it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both elegant and effortless. Versatile enough to grace any meal—from casual dinners to special gatherings—it’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Pin Title
Honey Mustard Marinated Leeks: Sweet, Savory & Simple Side
Pin Description
Elevate your sides with these honey-mustard marinated leeks—infused with umami miso, lightly caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Quick to make, elegant to serve.
Hashtags
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#HoneyMustardLeeks
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#SimpleSideDish
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#LeekRecipe