Leeks Wrapped In Bacon With Herb Butter
Bacon-wrapped leeks infused with herb butter create a savory, flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or a special side dish with fresh herbs and crispy bacon.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash parsley, dill, and chives thoroughly; chop as finely as possible.
- Chop garlic or put through a garlic press.
- Add the chopped herbs to softened butter and mix thoroughly.
- Add white pepper and salt to taste.
- Wash and trim the leeks, then cut them into suitable lengths.
- Wrap each leek with a slice of bacon, securing if necessary.
- Spread the herb butter over the bacon-wrapped leeks.
- Place the wrapped leeks on a baking sheet and bake until the bacon is crispy and leeks are tender, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing leeks, make sure to clean them thoroughly as dirt can hide between the layers. For a lower-fat option, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the herb butter. This dish can also be paired with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bacon-wrapped leeks as an appetizer or side dish at your next gathering. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with German Spinach or a light quiche. They also make for a delightful addition to a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bacon-wrapped leeks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leeks Wrapped In Bacon With Herb Butter contains roughly 300 calories, with 24g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (200% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (190% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 466mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the herb butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the herb butter up to a week in advance. Simply mix the herbs with the softened butter, place it in an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before spreading on the leeks.
What other herbs can I use in the herb butter?
Feel free to get creative with the herbs! You can substitute the parsley, dill, and chives with other fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or even thyme. Just remember to adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While the traditional recipe features bacon, you can create a vegetarian version by using smoked tempeh or marinated tofu strips in place of bacon. The herb butter will still provide plenty of flavor to the leeks, making it a delicious alternative.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).