Grilled Leeks

Grilling has got to be my new favorite way to cook this humble vegetable! I've Sauteed Leeks and Roasted Leeks, but grilling this mild, slightly sweet vegetable adds this perfect charred flavor that's honestly better than most side dishes I've had at restaurants!

My husband raised an eyebrow when he saw me prepping leeks for dinner. But after one bite of this smoky and tender vegetable, he was asking for seconds. Even the kids, who usually side-eye anything green, cleaned their plates. They're perfect served alongside grilled chicken, steak, or even tossed into a salad or grain bowl.

What are leeks?

Leeks are a vegetable in the same family as onions, garlic, and shallots. They have a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that becomes buttery and tender when cooked. Shaped like oversized green onions, leeks have a white base that fades into light green, with darker green leaves at the top. They're often used in soups, stews, and sautés, but really shine when roasted or grilled.

Before You Get Started

Here are some things you should know before starting this recipe:

• Choose the right leeks: Look for leeks that are firm with white bottoms and bright green tops. Avoid any that feel limp or have yellowing leaves. Medium-sized leeks are ideal, as they're easier to clean and cook evenly on the grill.
• Clean them thoroughly: Because they grow in sandy soil, leeks tend to hold onto dirt between their layers. So athorough rinse is key before cooking!
• Pre-cook for perfect texture: Steaming the leeks before grilling ensures they cook through and get that soft, creamy interior. This also prevents them from burning or drying out on the grill.

How to Grill Leeks

Here's how to grill this simple vegetable:

1. Prep the Leeks

Trim the root end and dark green leaves, then slice each leek in half lengthwise. Rinse thoroughly to remove any grit.

2. Steam the Leeks

Add a couple of inches of water to a pot with garlic and a bay leaf. Place a steamer basket on top, add the leeks, and steam until just tender.

Skip the steamer: No steamer? Simmer the leeks gently in shallow water until tender.

3. Grill and Finish

Brush with olive oil and season. Grill until charred on both sides. Finish with lemon juice, Parmesan, and extra seasoning to taste.

Grill pan option: If you don't have an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Make sure it's preheated and lightly oiled. Once the leeks are steamed, place them cut-side down on the hot grill pan and cook just likeyou would on the grill, about 5–6 minutes per side until they're nicely charred and tender.

Change Up the Flavors

This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to play around with other flavors like these:

• Cheese swap: Use crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese instead of Parmesan for a bolder flavor.
• Add crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for extra texture.
• Add herbs: Add chopped fresh thyme or parsley after grilling for even more depth.
• Add protein: Crumble some cooked bacon or pancetta on top for a savory flavor.
• Use different seasonings: We love this lemon pepper or Homemade Seasoned Salt for grilled leeks!
• Drizzle balsamic glaze: A tangy balsamic glaze is the perfect accompaniment to the smoky char of the buttery leeks.

Serving Grilled Leeks

Here are some of my favorite main dishes to serve with grilled leeks:

• Best Grilled Chicken Thighs
• Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Marinade
• BBQ Chicken Bowl
• Chicken Quinoa Bowls

How to Store and Reheat

Here's how to keep grilled leeks fresh in the fridge and reheat later:

• Store: Keep leftover grilled leeks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Leftovers: Chop up the leftover leeks and toss them into a Grilled Vegetable Pasta Salad.