Roasting leeks is a wonderfully simple way to bring out their natural sweetness and add a delightful depth of flavour to your dishes. To start, preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit).

While the oven warms, take a few medium-sized leeks and trim the root ends and the dark green tops, leaving about 10–15 cm of the white and light green parts. Slice them in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Once they’re clean, pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Next, arrange the leeks cut side up on a roasting tray. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You might also like to add a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.

Roast the leeks in the oven for around 25 to 30 minutes, until they are tender and golden brown, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The result will be beautifully caramelised leeks, perfect as a side dish, tossed through pasta, or as a tasty addition to salads. Enjoy the rich flavour and delightful texture that roasting brings!

Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook vegetables, and leeks are no exception. Preparing Air Fryer leeks is a delightful way to enhance their natural sweetness while achieving a satisfying crispness. Simply trim the tops and roots, slice them lengthwise, and give them a good rinse to remove any grit. Toss the leeks in a light coating of olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, before placing them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to around 180°C (350°F) and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. The result is beautifully caramelised leeks, perfect for serving as a side dish or mixing into a hearty grain salad. Drizzle with a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavour. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish as part of a quintessential British meal!