Poireaux-vinaigrette-–-Leek-in-vinaigrette

Leeks Vinaigrette

Ingredients

  • 8 medium leeks (3 1⁄2 pounds)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 ounces thinly sliced pancetta, chilled
  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Cut off dark green tops of leeks and trim root ends. Halve each leek lengthwise to within 2 inches of root end. Rinse well under cold running water to wash away sand. Cover leeks with cold water in a 12-inch heavy skillet. Add salt and simmer leeks, uncovered, until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer leeks to a bowl of ice and cold water to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry with paper towels. Finely chop pancetta, then cook in 1 tablespoon oil over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Whisk together vinegar, mustard, remaining 1⁄4 cup oil, and salt and pepper to taste in a bowl until emulsified. Add leeks and gently toss to coat. Serve topped with pancetta and parsley. Makes 4 servings.