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  1. UPDATE on 1/23/2025: Due to severe winter weather, leafy greens will NOT be available until further notice. We WILL have carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, shallots, beets, and other root vegetables.
All About Leeks

All About Leeks

“East leeks in March and wild garlic in May and all year after physicians may play."  - Author unknown

We aren't sure if that quote is completely true, but leeks can be a healthy and flavor-enhancing addition to your meals!

Five Fun Facts

  • Originally from central Asia, leeks have been eaten since at least 2000 BC.
  • Found dried at archaeological sites in ancient Egypt and also in carved images on walls, leeks were clearly part of the Egyptian diet. 
  • In ancient times, Romans considered leeks to be the food of the wealthy.
  • The leek is a national emblem of Wales. It is worn along with the daffodil (the daffodil is known as “Peter’s leek” in Welsh) on St. David’s Day.
  • Leeks are a milder and sweeter version of an onion.

Nutrition Info

Leeks are a good source of:

  • Vitamin K
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin C
  • Manganese
  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Folate

Benefits

  • May improve eye health and prevent cataracts
  • Supports cardiovascular health
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • May prevent anemia
  • May relieve inflammation

Cautions

As it grows to maturity, the leek can collect small amounts of dirt between the layers of the plant. Therefore, take care to clean your leeks carefully before cooking them or serving them raw.

Suggested Recipes

Martha Stewart’s Buttery Leeks with Parmesan and Thyme - vegetarian, gluten-free
Alton Brown’s Leek Potato Soup - vegetarian, gluten-free, Low sodium
Potato, Leek, and Ham Gratin
Buttery Sautéed Leek with Bacon - gluten-free
Leek Bread Pudding - vegetarian  

    For the Kids and Kids-at-Heart

     Download this activity sheet to find the leeks! 

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    Credits and thanks in addition to recipes and information linked above: Bosskitchen.com, Foodreference.com, Justfunfacts.com, Nutritionadvance.com, Pixabay.com, Webmd.com

    Inclusion of a link does not imply WHF endorsement of all content at that link.