Zucchini Pecorino Fritters

Photo of vegetable pancake from Max Griss from Unsplash

Indulge in the savory delight of our zucchini and pecorino fritters, a burst of flavor in every bite. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these fritters combine zucchini with the rich, tangy taste of pecorino cheese. Perfect for a snack or appetizer, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings with their irresistible blend of textures and flavors.

Photo of vegetable pancake from Max Griss from Unsplash

Zucchini and Pecorino Fritters

Kate Merker and Taylor Murray
Indulge in the crispy delight of Zucchini and Pecorino Fritters, where tender zucchini is mixed with tangy pecorino cheese, formed into golden patties, and fried to perfection. These savory fritters offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for serving as a tasty appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 oz Pecorino, grated
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 clove garlic pressed
  • Black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Grate zucchini; squeeze dry with paper towels and transfer to a bowl.
  • Add egg, Pecorino, Panko, garlic, and pepper; stir to combine.
  • Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of mixture onto a greased baking sheet and gently flatten.
  • Bake, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp, 18-20 minutes.

Notes

This recipe is by Kate Merker and Taylor Murray, and was published by Country Living.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Zucchini-Lentil Fritters with Lemony Yogurt

Photo of vegetable pancake from Max Griss from Unsplash

Savor the zest of our zucchini-lentil fritters paired with lemony yogurt, a burst of flavors in each bite. Crisp on the outside and tender within, these fritters combine zucchini and lentils to perfection. Topped with refreshing lemony yogurt, they make a satisfying meal or appetizer that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Photo of vegetable pancake from Max Griss from Unsplash

Zucchini-Lentil Fritters with Lemony Yogurt

Sohla El-Waylly
Savor the crispy perfection of Zucchini Lentil Fritters paired with a zesty Lemony Yogurt dip, where wholesome lentils and shredded zucchini are transformed into golden patties bursting with flavor. This delightful dish offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness, making it a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.
Course Appetizer
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Lemony Yogurt

  • 3/4 cup whole-milk yogurt
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Kosher salt

Fritters

  • 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
  • 1 medium zucchini about 5 oz
  • 1/2 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 1.75 tsp kosher salt divided, plus more
  • 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chile powder or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 cup parsley leaves with tender stems
  • 1 Tbsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 cup ghee or vegetable soil

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the yogurt. Whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and sugar in a small bowl to combine. Season with salt.
  • Rinse lentils, then soak in 2 cups of water at room temperature at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours (soaking lentils makes them tender and a lot easier to blend).
  • Meanwhile, trim ends from zucchini and cut crosswise into 3 pieces about 2" long. Cut each piece lengthwise into 1/4"-thick planks. Stack a few planks and slice lengthwise into 1/4"-thick matchsticks (about the size of a skinny french fry).
  • Transfer zucchini to a colander set in a medium bowl. Add onion and 1 tsp salt and toss to combine. Let sit until vegetables look wilted and softened and about 1 Tbsp liquid has released into bowl, 30 minutes to 2 hours. Gently pay dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
  • Drain lentils and transfer to a food processor. Add chile powder, turmeric, and 3/4 tsp salt. Pulse, scraping bowl sides, until a purée forms. Transfer to a medium bowl and add zucchini and onion, parsley, and lemon zest. Toss with a rubber spatula to combine.
  • Line a rimmed baking sheet with paper towels; set a wire rack inside. Heat ghee in a medium cast-iron skillet over medium-high until a pinch of batter added to pan sizzles and sputters.
  • Using a large spoon, scoop out about 1/4 cup batter, then use a second large spoon dipped in the hot ghee to carefully scrape into pan; flatten with ghee-coated spoon. Repeat for 3 more fritters. Fry until deep golden brown on the first side, about 3 minutes. Turn over with a wide slotted spatula and fry until deep golden brown underneath, about 3 minutes.
  • Transfer fritters to prepared rack to drain; season with salt. Repeat with remaining batter (you end up with 8-10 fritters total).
  • Transfer fritters to a platter and serve with lemony yogurt alongside.

Notes

Note: Yogurt can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.
This recipe is by Sohla El-Waylly for Bon Appetit.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Photo of pesto pasta from Clara Farras from Unsplash

Delight in the freshness of our zucchini noodles with pesto, a vibrant dish bursting with flavor. Tender zucchini ribbons are tossed in aromatic pesto sauce, creating a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing side, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer in every bite.

Photo of pesto pasta from Clara Farras from Unsplash

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Vicki Shanta Retelny
Elevate your pasta game with Zucchini Noodles coated in vibrant Pesto, where tender zucchini ribbons are enrobed in a flavorful basil pesto sauce. This light and refreshing dish offers a healthy twist on traditional pasta, bursting with fresh herbaceous flavors and nutritious goodness.
Course Main Course
Servings 4 (1/2 cup) servings

Ingredients
  

Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves loosely packed
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 2 small garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

Noodles

  • 2 cups zucchini spirals see Notes
  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the pesto: Pulse the basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese, oil, salt and pepper in a food processor until thoroughly blended. Scrape down the sides and pulse a few more times to mix well.
  • Place the zucchini spirals in a medium saucepan with olive oil. Sauté the zucchini noodles in the pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Drain excess liquid and potion the noodles into bowls- top each with a generous tablespoon of pesto. Gently toss and enjoy.

Notes

Note: Enjoy this recipe with any spiralized vegetable, such as yellow squash, butternut squash, or beets. To make zucchini spirals from scratch, use a handy kitchen gadget called a spiralizer or a small knife. Use washed, unpeeled zucchini to create long, thin "noodles." Also, jarred pesto can be used instead.
This recipe by Vicky Shanta Retelny was published in the July 2020 edition of Costco Connection.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Leeks Vinaigrette

Photo of harvested and trimmed leeks from Lucy May from Unsplash

Enjoy the simplicity of our leeks vinaigrette, a dish that celebrates fresh flavors in every bite. Tender leeks are lightly cooked and dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. Perfect as a refreshing side or a light appetizer, it’s a culinary delight that’s both satisfying and invigorating.

Photo of harvested and trimmed leeks from Lucy May from Unsplash

Leeks VInaigrette

Cooks Illustrated
Enjoy the simplicity of Leeks Vinaigrette, where tender leeks are gently poached and dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, creating a refreshing and elegant dish. This classic French recipe highlights the delicate sweetness of leeks, balanced perfectly with the bright acidity of the vinaigrette, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 3 leeks (1-1.5" diameter, with 8-9" of white and light green parts) white and light green parts only
  • Table salt for simmering leeks
  • 2 tsp + 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil divided
  • 3/4 cup fresh bread crumbs
  • 2 Tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley divided
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1.5 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove minced to paste

Instructions
 

  • Trim roots from leeks, leaving base intact so layers stay together. Starting 1 inch above base, halve leeks lengthwise (they'll still be joined at base). Rinse thoroughly between layers to remove any dirt. Tie halves of each leeks together with kitchen twine about 2" from top.
  • Bring 3 quarts of water to boil in Dutch oven. Add leeks and 3 Tbsp salt and return to boil. Adjust heat to maintain simmer. Cover and cook until area just above base can be pierced easily with paring knife, 15-20 minutes.
  • Using tongs, grasp 1 leek close to base and hold vertically over pot to drain briefly. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate and repeat with remaining leeks. Let sit until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes. While leeks cool, make crumbs and vinaigrette.
  • Heat 2 Tbsp oil in 8" non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add bread crumbs and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until deep golden brown, 4-5 minutes. Off heat, sprinkle with Parmesan and let sit until crumbs are just warm, about 5 minutes. Add 1 Tbsp parsley and pepper and stir, breaking up any clumps.
  • Whisk vinegar, mustard, 1 Tbsp water, and garlic together in small bowl until combined. Whisking constantly, drizzle in remaining 3 Tbsp oil. Whisk remaining 1 Tbsp parsley.
  • Squeeze leeks over sink to remove excess water. Remove twine and finish cutting leeks in half lengthwise. Cut each half crosswise into thirds (do not remove bases or leeks; they're delicious). Spread half of vinaigrette over bottom of serving platter. Arrange leeks on platter, cut side up, opening layers slightly. Drizzle evenly with remaining vinaigrette. Sprinkle with breadcrumb mixture and serve.

Notes

Note: Dressed leeks can be covered loosely and stored at room temperature for up to 3 hours.
This recipe was published in Cooks Illustrated.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Leek and Spring Onion Gratin

Pics of a cheesy dish from Tomoyo S. from Unsplash

Savor the essence of the season with our leek and spring onion gratin. Layers of tender leeks and spring onions bake to perfection, offering a blend of sweet and savory flavors. Topped with golden breadcrumbs and cheese, it’s a comforting dish that celebrates seasonal freshness and satisfaction.

Pics of a cheesy dish from Tomoyo S. from Unsplash

Leek and Spring Onion Gratin

David Tanis
Savor the essence of spring with a Leek and Spring Onion Gratin, where tender leeks and vibrant spring onions are bathed in a creamy sauce, topped with a golden crust of cheese. This comforting dish captures the freshness of the season in every bite, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that's sure to please any palate.
Total Time 1 hour
Course Side Dish
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 3 scallions thinly sliced
  • 2 stalks green garlic or 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt more as needed
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 leeks, white and light green parts only halved lengthwise and cut into 1-inch pieces crosswise
  • 2 spring onions cut into 1-inch wedges
  • 3 Tbsp butter cut into cubes
  • 5 anchovies minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp thyme leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 4 oz Gruyere coarsely grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Place a rack in the top third of the oven and heat to 400°F. In a medium bowl, toss scallions, green garlic, salt and pepper.
  • Heat a 12" cast iron skillet over medium heat. Arrange the leeks cut-side down in the skillet, then scatter spring onions in the gaps. Sprinkle a little more salt on top, then spread scallion mixture in an even layer in pan. Pour in 1/4 cup water and top with butter.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat until vegetables are soft, 20 to 25 minutes.
  • Uncover the pan, turn heat to medium-high and cook until liquid is evaporated and edges are starting to brown and sizzle, 5-10 minutes longer.
  • Meanwhile, in a small bowl, rub together anchovies, Parmesan, Panko, thyme, lemon zest and red pepper flakes. Drizzle in oil and toss to combine.
  • Sprinkle Gruyere evenly into skillet over leeks, pour in cream, then top with the breadcrumb mixture. Drizzle with a little more oil. Transfer to oven and bake until golden and bubbly, 15-20 minutes. Cool slightly, then serve warm.

Notes

This recipe was written by David Tanis and published in City Kitchen
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Leeks with Prosciutto and Parmesan

Photo of prosciutto from Allan Francis from Unsplash

Experience culinary perfection with our leeks accompanied by prosciutto and Parmesan, a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Tender leeks are lovingly wrapped in savory prosciutto, then baked to caramelized perfection, creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet and salty notes. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, each bite offers a burst of rich umami goodness that tantalizes the taste buds. Whether served as an elegant appetizer or a decadent side dish, our dish promises to elevate any meal with its irresistible blend of flavors.

Photo of prosciutto from Allan Francis from Unsplash

Leeks with Prosciutto and Parmesan

Rodale's Organic Life
Delight in the savory elegance of Leeks wrapped in Prosciutto and Parmesan, where tender leek bundles are enveloped in salty prosciutto and adorned with nutty Parmesan cheese. This sophisticated dish offers a symphony of flavors and textures, marrying the sweetness of leeks with the richness of prosciutto and the sharpness of Parmesan for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Course Appetizer
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium leeks dark green tops removed
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 6 thin slices prosciutto 3 oz
  • 1 Tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions
 

  • Shave off root end of each leek, making sure to keep the bottom intact to hold leek together. Cut leeks in half lengthwise, clean under water, and drain.
  • Combine chicken stock, 2 cups water, and salt in a medium skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce to a bare simmer and add leeks. Simmer until very tender, about 30 minutes. Turn off heat and let sit until cool enough to handle.
  • Heat broiler and position a rack 6" from heat. Transfer leeks to a baking dish, sprinkle with 1/2 cup cheese, and wrap each in a slice of prosciutto. Add a few tablespoons poaching liquid to dish. Dot leeks with butter, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and broil until golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Notes

This recipe is originally from Rodale's Organic Life.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Roasted Fish with Leeks and Olive Salsa Verde

Photo of fish with lemon from Rosalind Chang from Unsplash

Delight in the exquisite flavors of our roasted fish with leeks and olive salsa verde, a Mediterranean-inspired culinary masterpiece. Tender fish fillets are roasted to perfection, then topped with a vibrant salsa verde made with briny olives, fragrant herbs, and tangy lemon. Alongside, caramelized leeks add a sweet and savory dimension to every bite, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. Whether served as an elegant dinner centerpiece or a light yet satisfying meal, our roasted fish dish is sure to transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with its fresh and vibrant flavors.

Photo of fish with lemon from Rosalind Chang from Unsplash

Roasted Fish with Leeks and Olive Salsa Verde

Melissa Clark
Elevate your seafood game with Roasted Fish accompanied by tender leeks and a zesty Olive Salsa Verde, where succulent fish fillets are perfectly complemented by the bright flavors of olives and fresh herbs. This exquisite dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a delightful centerpiece for any culinary occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Fish and Leeks

  • 4 thick fillets white fish, such as cod or halibut about 1.5 lb total
  • 3 medium leeks trimmed, white and light green parts halved lengthwise and rinsed well
  • Extra-virgin olive oil

Olive Salsa Verde

  • 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup pitted Castelvetrano olives coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro leaves and tender stems
  • 1 garlic clove finely grated, minced, or pushed through a garlic press
  • Large pinch of red pepper flakes or to taste
  • Fine sea salt or table salt
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Heat oven to 425°F. Season fish all over with salt and pepper, and set aside while you prepare the leeks.
  • Cut the leeks into matchsticks: Place a leek half, flat side down, on a cutting board and cut it in half crosswise. Then slice the pieces lengthwise into this (1/4" thick) matchsticks. Repeat with the remaining leeks.
  • Spread leeks out on a rimmed baking sheet. Lightly drizzle them with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Push aside the leeks to create 4 spaces in the center of the sheet pan just large enough for the fish fillets, then place the fillets in those cleared spaces. (Avoid putting the fish on top of the leeks, which won't cook as well when they're covered.)
  • Drizzle fish with oil. Roast until the fish is opaque and just cooked through but not yet flakey, about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. The leeks surrounding the fish will be soft and silky, while those at the edges of the pan may turn delightfully brown and crisp in spots. If the fish is done but you think the leeks need a little more time, transfer the fish to a serving platter, tent with foil to keep warm, and continue to cook the leeks for another few minutes.
  • While the fish is in the oven, make the salsa verde. Using a fine rasp grater, grate 1/2 tsp lemon zest into a small bowl. Halve the lemon and squeeze in 1 Tbsp juice.
  • Stir in olives, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt. Slowly drizzle in oil, stirring to combine. Taste and add more salt, red pepper or another squeeze of lemon, if needed.
  • Place fish on plates and surround with leeks. Top with olive salsa verde.

Notes

This recipe by Melissa Clark was published in A Good Appetite.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Catalan-Style Spinach

Photo of greens in a colander from Chiara Conti from Unsplash

Experience the bold flavors of our Catalan-style spinach, a vibrant dish that celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Fresh spinach leaves are sautéed with garlic, pine nuts, and raisins, creating a symphony of sweet and savory tastes. With each forkful, savor the perfect balance of textures and flavors, as the spinach wilts to perfection and the raisins add a touch of sweetness. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, our Catalan-style spinach is sure to transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Spain with its delicious taste and aromatic spices

Photo of greens in a colander from Chiara Conti from Unsplash

Catalan-Style Spinach

Food and Wine
Experience the vibrant flavors of Catalonia with Catalan-Style Spinach, where tender spinach is sautéed with garlic, pine nuts, and raisins, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. This traditional dish offers a taste of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite, perfect for bringing a touch of Spanish flair to your table.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • 4 10oz bags stemmed curly spinach
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 large garlic cloves very finely chopped
  • Kosher salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, cover the raisins with warm water and let stand until plumped, about 10 minutes, drain well. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, toast the pine nuts over moderate heat, tossing, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  • In a large saucepan, bring 1/2 cup of water to a boil. Add half the spinach in large handfuls, letting each batch wilt slightly before adding more. Cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until just wilted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a colander to drain. Repeat with another 1/4 cup of water and the remaining spinach.
  • In the large saucepan, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the garlic and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Stir in the spinach, raisins, pine nuts and a generous pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is hot, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Notes

This recipe was originally published in the September 2017 edition of Food and Wine.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Spinach, Leek, and Goat Cheese Quiche

Photo of quiche with spinach from David Townsend from Unsplash

Savor the irresistible flavors of our spinach, leek, and goat cheese quiche, a delightful fusion of savory ingredients. Tender spinach and aromatic leeks are perfectly complemented by creamy goat cheese, nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. With each bite, experience the harmonious blend of earthy greens and tangy cheese, creating a taste sensation that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed for brunch, lunch, or dinner, our quiche is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Photo of quiche with spinach from David Townsend from Unsplash

Spinach, Leek, and Goat Cheese Quiche with Olive Oil Crust

Ellie Krieger
Savor the harmonious blend of flavors in a Spinach, Leek, and Goat Cheese Quiche nestled within an Olive Oil Crust, where delicate spinach and caramelized leeks mingle with creamy goat cheese in every bite. This indulgent yet wholesome dish offers a delightful medley of savory goodness, making it a standout addition to any brunch or dinner table.
Course Breakfast
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 2/3 cup whole-grain pastry flour, or 1/3 cup each all-purpose flour and regular whole-wheat flour 80 grams total
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 62 grams
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/3 cup olive oil, plus 1 Tbsp for brushing 80 ml
  • 2 Tbsp cold low-fat milk (1%)

Filling

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large leek white and green parts only (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cups loosely packed fresh spinach leaves, coarsely chopped 2 oz or 60 grams
  • 1/3 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, chopped 20 grams
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt divided
  • 3 oz soft goat cheese, at room temperature 90 grams
  • 1 cup low-fat milk (1%), divided 240 ml
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Crust

  • Position the baking rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 400°F.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the pastry flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. In a small bowl or spouted pitcher, pour in the 1/3 cup of olive oil, then whisk in the milk until well integrated. Make a well in the flour mixture, pour in the oil mixture, then combine with a fork until crumbly.
  • Brush a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate and one side of a 10-inch square piece of foil with the remaining 1 tsp oil. Pat the mixture into the bottom and about 3/4 of the way up the sides of the prepared pie plate.
  • Prick the pie crust in a few spots with a fork. Place the foil (oiled side down) over the crust, tip it with pie weights, raw rice, or dried beans and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the weights and the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until golden.
  • Let cool completely on a wire rack. If making the filling right away, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.

Filling

  • In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the leeks and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, 1-2 minutes. Stir in the parsley and 1/4 tsp of the salt, then remove from the heat and let cool completely.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the goat cheese and 1/2 cup of the milk until completely uniform. Whisk in the remaining milk, along with the eggs, the remaining 1/4 tsp of salt and the pepper.
  • Place the pie dish onto a large, rimmed baking sheet. Distribute the spinach-leek mixture over the bottom of the crust. Pour the filling into the crust and bake 45-55 minutes, until just set. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving

Notes

This recipe was published by Ellie Krieger in the Washington Post.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.

Creamed Spinach

Photo of harvested spinach greens from Engin Akyurt from Unsplash

Indulge in the velvety goodness of our creamed spinach, a classic side dish that never fails to delight. Fresh spinach leaves are bathed in a rich and creamy sauce, infused with hints of garlic and nutmeg for a burst of flavor in every bite. With its smooth texture and decadent taste, this dish is a comforting addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of indulgence and wholesome goodness. Whether served alongside a hearty roast or as a standalone delight, our creamed spinach is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Photo of harvested spinach greens from Engin Akyurt from Unsplash

Creamed Spinach

Food and Wine
Indulge in the timeless classic of Creamed Spinach, where tender spinach leaves are enveloped in a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic and nutmeg. This rich and velvety dish offers a luxurious dining experience, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups chicken stock or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 8oz bags baby spinach
  • 1/2 stick unsalted butter 4 Tbsp
  • 2 large shallots minced
  • 3 large cloves garlic finely grated
  • 2 Tbsp Cognac
  • 1 Tbsp Pernod
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 springs fresh thyme
  • Freshly grated nutmeg
  • Kosher salt and white pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring the chicken stock to a boil over moderately high heat. Add the spinach, cover and cook for 1 minute. Toss the spinach with tongs, cover and cook for 1 minute longer, until just wilted. Drain the spinach and let it cool, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
  • In a large, shallow pot, cook the butter, shallots and garlic over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent but not browned, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and add the Cognac and Pernod. Carefully tilt the pan over the burner to ignite the alcohol; cook until the flames subside. (Alternatively, remove the pan from the heat and ignite with a long match, then return to the heat.)
  • Stir in the drained spinach, cream and thyme. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 2 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt and white pepper and transfer to a bowl. Serve the creamed spinach hot.

Notes

This recipe was originally published in the December 2017 issue of Food and Wine.
This favorite recipe was contributed by a Backyard Eats client! She encourages home cooks to substitute ingredients as needed based their lifestyle or what's growing fresh in their garden.