Spring Cleaning With Leeks

Feeling sluggish after a long winter of rich foods and lack of exercise?  Never fear, spring is here! As the weather warms up, Mother Nature provides spring greens that help cleanse and energize us. While all greens rock, leeks are the best for cleansing the liver (the organ that governs the spring season according to Traditional Chinese Medicine).

I just love leeks...let me tell you. Leeks are high in fiber and can act like a mild diuretic.  They contain sulfur compounds that play detoxifying and cancer fighting roles in the body. Leeks can even help reduce Type 2 diabetes due to a healthy dose of vitamin K.

Here is my ultimate favorite leek recipe~Bean, Pea, and Leek Soup!

Serves 6

Tip:  use the larger amount of sauerkraut if you have the raw, naturally fermented kind and the smaller quantity if your sauerkraut is harsh. (You can also give it a quick rinse if it is really biting).

1 Tbs unsalted butter

1 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for drizzling

2 large leeks, white and tender green parts only, cleaned and thinly sliced (about 2 cups)

1 Tbs chopped mint

Sea salt

1 lb. fresh peas, shelled (1 ¾ cups fresh or frozen peas)

1 cup cooked navy beans with their cooking liquid, or 1 cup canned organic navy beans, with their liquid

½ - 1 cup drained sauerkraut, to taste

In a saucepan, heat the butter and oil over medium –high heat.  Add the leeks, mint, and ½ teaspoon salt, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the leeks are tender, 4-5 minutes.

Add the peas, beans, and 4 cups of the bean liquid (top it up with water or vegetable stock if you don’t have enough cooking liquid left or are using canned beans).  Cover, bring the soup to a simmer, and cook until the peas are tender, 5-7 minutes.

Add the sauerkraut and simmer for 2 more minutes.  Season with salt to taste.  Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil.

From The Flexitarian Table by Peter Berley

Have you ever tried leeks before? Do you have a leek recipe to share? Please make sure to put leeks on your shopping list and make the soup. You won’t be disappointed!

Lisa Consiglio Ryan

Certified Health and Nutrition Coach

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