Hearty Leek and Potato Soup

Lately I’m big into Yukon Gold potatoes. I love the color. I love the texture. Where russet potatoes can be kind of grainy in a soup, Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy, and add a wonderful gold color.

Seattle is cold and rainy these days, so today seemed like a good day to make a light leek and potato soup. How simple! Wash some leeks, saute for a few minutes, add the potatoes and broth. Simmer for 30 minutes – you’re done!

You’ll have a creamy, savory comfort soup for a blustery, rainy day (that is if you live in Seattle, Washington).

Happy cooking!

Serves 6

3 large leeks, thinly sliced and rinsed in water to remove dirt and sand
4 medium potatoes, Yukon Gold, cubed (do not peel, you’ll keep the nutrients and add color to the soup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
6 cups water
1 tsp thyme
1 ea bay leaf
1/2 cup low fat milk

1. Heat large pan over medium heat with olive oil. Add leeks and garlic. Cook 10 minutes until leeks are tender, adding a bit of chicken broth if needed.
2. Add chicken broth, potatoes, water, thyme and bay leaf. Simmer on low for 30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
3. Add in batches to blender and puree. Return to pan and add milk. Heat through and season with salt and pepper to taste.

What’s good for me in this dish?

Potatoes with skin contain vitamins C, B6, copper, potassium, manganese, tryptophan, and fiber. Potatoes contain phytonutrients that have antioxidant activity, as well as flavonoids to protect against cardiovascular disease, respiratory problems and some cancers. B6 is helpful for cardiovascular and brain health, as well as sports endurance.

Leeks contain manganese, vitamin C, iron, folate and vitamin B6. Leeks are an Allium vegetable shown to reduce LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Leeks have been shown to reduce the risk of prostate and colon cancer, as well as protect against ovarian cancer.

Calories: 186
Total Fat: 1.83g
Cholesterol: –
Sodium: 161mg
Total Carbs: 38.62g
Dietary Fiber: 3.06g
Sugars: 2.59g
Protein: 5.32g
Weight Watchers Points 3

Nutrition details obtained from whfoods.org, nutritiondata.com, about.com, and abouthomecooking.com I am not a licensed nutritionist, nor a medical professional, and do not mean this information as medical or nutrition advice. See your medical professional if you have questions regarding your nutritional needs.

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