Grilled Leeks

INGREDIENTS

3 leeks
Extra virgin olive oil
Splash of white wine vinegar
Sea salt
Black pepper
Small handful of fresh basil leaves

DIRECTIONS

Start by washing the leeks. Leeks can hold a lot of dirt, so it is best to leave them sitting in cold water for 10 minutes, agitating them every couple of minutes to help get the dirt out.

Cut off the root and cut the leeks in half lengthwise. Discard the tough outer layer of mature leeks.

Get a pot of boiling water on the go, and boil the leeks for a couple of minutes - until softened. Prepare an ice bath. Plunge the leeks into the ice bath, to stop further cooking.

Heat up the BBQ, grill pan, or oven broiler to high.

Drain the now cold leeks, and dry gently. Toss with a little olive oil and place on the grill or under the broiler. Grill just for a couple of minutes, until lightly browned, and the grill lines appear.

Toss them into a bowl and add another splash of olive oil and a smaller splash of white wine vinegar. Add a pinch of sea salt and some freshly ground black pepper.

Cut the basil leaves into thin slices (chiffonade), and add those into the bowl of leeks. Gently toss to combine and serve immediately.