Potato and Leek Casserole #recipe

A member of the onion and garlic family are known as leeks. In the United States, leeks are grown in California, Michigan and Virginia. To me, leeks look similar to green onions or scallions to me. 

Leeks are a winter veggie that packs with them many benefits. Individuals that eat leaks have been shown to have lower cholesterol levels as well as stabilized blood sugars. . Leeks may also help reduce the risk of prostate, colon and / 0r ovarian cancer. In addition, leeks are a good source of B6, C, folate and iron.However, leeks have their own drawbacks because they have shown to cause kidney and gallbladder issues. 

Leeks can be used in a number of different ways A few of my favorites include using them in soup and salad recipes. 

         Potato and Leek Casserole 

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• 1garlic clove, cut in half
• 1tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1pound leeks, white and light green parts only, cut in half lengthwise, sliced and rinsed of sand
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1teaspoon cumin seeds, lightly toasted and crushed in a mortar and pestle or a spice mill
• 2pounds russet potatoes or Yukon golds, peeled if using russets, scrubbed if using Yukon golds, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 3ounces Gruyère cheese, grated (3/4 cup, tightly packed)
• 2 1/3 cups low-fat milk
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• Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Rub the inside of a 2-quart gratin or baking dish with the cut side of the garlic clove. Brush lightly with olive oil. Heat the remaining olive oil in a wide, heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the leeks. Cook, stirring often, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and freshly ground pepper to taste and stir in the crushed cumin seeds. Stir together for half a minute and remove from the heat. Place the potatoes in a large bowl and season generously with salt and pepper. Add the leeks mixture and half the cheese, and toss together. Arrange in the baking dish in an even layer. Pour in the milk. Place the baking dish on a baking sheet and place in the oven.

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