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Leeks in Vinaigrette with Walnuts and Tarragon

2.7

(7)

Leeks in Vinaigrette with Walnuts and Tarragon
Photo by Michael Graydon & Nikole Herriott

Cutting the leeks into rounds is an update on the classic presentation—and makes them easier to serve to a crowd.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    8 servings

Ingredients

1 cup walnuts
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
6 large leeks, tough outer layer removed
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
1/3 cup coarsely chopped tarragon
Freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast walnuts on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, 6–8 minutes. Let cool, then coarsely chop. Transfer to a small bowl and toss with oil; season with salt.

    Step 2

    Trim root ends of leeks and 1" from the dark green tops. Cut leeks into 1/2"-thick rounds (the dark green parts won’t be rounds, but that’s okay). Rinse well.

    Step 3

    Cook leeks in a large pot of boiling salted water until meltingly tender, 12–15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain and pat dry.

    Step 4

    Whisk garlic, vinegar, and Dijon and whole grain mustards in a small bowl; season vinaigrette with salt.

    Step 5

    Arrange leeks on a platter; drizzle with vinaigrette and let sit at least 10 minutes (the longer, the better).

    Step 6

    Just before serving, scatter walnut mixture over leeks and top with tarragon and lots of pepper.

  2. Do Ahead

    Step 7

    Leeks (without walnut mixture and tarragon) can be marinated 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before serving.

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