Leek scapes are the tender, curly shoots that grow from the leek bulb before it matures. Often overlooked, these vibrant green stalks pack a mild onion-garlic flavor that adds a fresh twist to many dishes. Using leek scapes is a fantastic way to reduce waste and enjoy seasonal, garden-fresh ingredients.
Incorporating leek scapes into our cooking opens up a world of possibilities. From pesto and stir-fries to soups and salads, their unique taste and texture bring something special to the table. Let’s explore some delicious leek scape recipes that are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
To create delicious leek scape recipes, we focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients that highlight the unique flavor of these tender shoots. Below is an organized list of essential components to gather before we start cooking.
Fresh Leek Scapes
- 1 pound fresh leek scapes
(Trimmed, washed, and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Look for scapes that are firm and bright green with a mild, onion-garlic aroma
- Avoid limp or yellowing scapes for best taste and texture
Complementary Ingredients
To enhance the mild, aromatic flavor of leek scapes, we pair them with ingredients that add depth, creaminess, or a hint of acidity.
| Ingredient | Purpose | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | Base for sauté or dressing | 2-3 tablespoons | Use extra virgin for best flavor |
| Garlic cloves | Adds pungent flavor | 2 minced | Optional depending on recipe |
| Lemon juice | Provides brightness and acidity | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed preferred |
| Parmesan cheese | Adds richness and umami | 1/4 cup grated | Great for pesto or garnishing |
| Salt | Enhances natural flavors | To taste | Use sea salt for subtle complexity |
| Black pepper | Adds mild heat and depth | To taste | Freshly ground for best aroma |
| Nuts (pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts) | Provides texture and nuttiness | 1/4 cup | Toast lightly for better flavor |
| Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or chives) | Adds freshness and color | 2 tablespoons chopped | Optional, adjust to recipe |
Using this well-curated list of ingredients, we ensure each leek scape recipe is balanced, flavorful, and showcases the unique qualities of this seasonal ingredient.
Equipment Needed
To master Leek Scape Recipes, having the right equipment simplifies preparation and enhances cooking results. Let’s explore the essential tools and cookware that bring out the best in these unique shoots.
Kitchen Tools for Preparing Leek Scapes
We need precise, efficient tools to handle fresh leek scapes gently while maintaining their texture and flavor. Here are the must-haves:
- Chef’s knife: Sharp and sturdy for trimming tough ends and slicing scapes into uniform pieces.
- Cutting board: A stable, non-slip surface for safe cutting.
- Vegetable peeler: Optional, for peeling any fibrous outer layers if necessary.
- Garlic press: Useful for mincing fresh garlic, enhancing pesto and marinade flavors.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning balance—salt, pepper, lemon juice.
- Mixing bowls: Multiple sizes to toss ingredients during pesto making or salads.
- Fine mesh sieve: Ideal for rinsing scapes thoroughly to remove dirt and grit.
- Citrus juicer: Easily extract lemon juice without seeds for bright acidity in recipes.
Cooking Equipment
For best results in cooking leek scapes, we rely on simple cookware that preserves their delicate taste while offering versatile preparation methods:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-stick skillet | Sauté scapes gently without sticking or burning |
| Large saucepan | Perfect for simmering soups or blanching before stir-frying |
| Blender or food processor | Blend scapes into silky pesto or creamy spreads |
| Baking tray | Roast scapes to develop sweetness and crunch |
| Tongs | Handle hot scapes carefully when tossing or flipping |
| Oven or stovetop | Heat source for cooking techniques such as roasting and sautéing |
With these kitchen tools and cooking equipment ready, we can fully showcase the vibrant flavors and textures of fresh leek scapes in our recipes.
Preparation
Proper preparation of leek scapes and accompanying ingredients is crucial to unlock their full flavor potential. Let’s carefully clean and trim these tender shoots and get the other components ready for our recipes.
How to Clean and Trim Leek Scapes
Cleaning and trimming leek scapes correctly ensures they are free from grit and ready for cooking.
- Rinse Leek Scapes
Hold each stalk under cold running water. Gently rub to remove any dirt or debris clinging to the surface.
- Trim the Ends
Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut off the tough root end and any browned or damaged tips.
- Peel the Tough Outer Layer (Optional)
If the outer layer feels fibrous or tough, peel it off with a vegetable peeler to reveal crisp green stalks inside.
- Cut to Desired Length
Depending on your recipe, slice the scapes into 1- to 2-inch segments or chiffonade thinly for salads and pestos.
Prepping Other Ingredients
To complement the bright notes of leek scapes, prepping other ingredients with precision enhances the final dish.
| Ingredient | Prep Instructions |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | Measure 2 to 4 tablespoons as needed; use extra virgin for optimal flavor |
| Garlic | Peel and mince 2 to 3 cloves finely for balanced pungency |
| Lemon Juice | Juice 1 fresh lemon; strain pulp for smooth acidity |
| Parmesan Cheese | Grate ½ cup finely for melting or garnishing |
| Nuts (Pine, Walnuts) | Toast lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to enhance flavor |
| Fresh Herbs | Roughly chop 2 tablespoons of basil or parsley to retain freshness |
Ensuring these ingredients are prepped accurately and timed correctly with our leek scapes will create a harmonious blend of flavor and texture.
Recipe 1: Leek Scape Pesto
Leek scape pesto is a vibrant and flavorful sauce that brings a unique twist to traditional pesto recipes. It’s quick to prepare and showcases the fresh, mild onion-garlic flavor of leek scapes beautifully.
Ingredients for Pesto
- 1 cup fresh leek scapes, chopped
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup toasted nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds work well)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the leek scapes by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the tough ends, then roughly chop the tender parts.
- Toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Combine the chopped leek scapes, minced garlic, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs in a food processor or blender. Pulse a few times to begin breaking up the ingredients.
- Slowly add olive oil in a steady stream while the processor runs, until the mixture becomes smooth but still slightly textured.
- Add lemon juice, grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Pulse again to combine thoroughly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer the pesto to a clean jar or bowl. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen when left to sit.
Pro tip: Use this leek scape pesto tossed with pasta, as a spread on crusty bread, or drizzled over roasted vegetables to elevate your dishes with fresh garden flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh leek scapes | 1 cup | Rinsed, trimmed, chopped |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/2 cup | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup | |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | Grated |
| Toasted nuts | 1/3 cup | Toasted and cooled |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Fresh herbs | 2 tablespoons | Chopped (basil or parsley) |
Recipe 2: Sautéed Leek Scapes with Garlic
This simple yet flavorful recipe lets the mild, onion-garlic essence of leek scapes shine through. We’ll use a quick sauté method infused with garlic to create a perfect side dish or topping for your favorite main courses.
Ingredients for Sauté
- 12 ounces fresh leek scapes, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped for garnish optional
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep Details |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh leek scapes | 12 ounces | Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | — |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon | — |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | To taste | Chopped for garnish |
Instructions
- Prepare the leek scapes by trimming the tough ends and slicing them into uniform 2-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers gently, add the minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its aroma but avoid browning or burning.
- Add the leek scapes to the skillet. Toss to coat them evenly in the garlic-infused oil.
- Cook the leek scapes for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The scapes should become tender yet retain a slight crunch, and their color will turn vibrant green.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasoning.
- Remove from heat and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the leek scapes. Toss gently to combine, adding a bright citrus note that complements the subtle onion-garlic flavor.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while warm for best flavor and texture.
This sautéed leek scapes dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even be folded into warm grains for an added burst of umami and freshness.
Recipe 3: Leek Scape and Potato Soup
This comforting Leek Scape and Potato Soup blends the subtle onion-garlic flavor of leek scapes with creamy potatoes. It’s a perfect seasonal dish that warms us while celebrating the unique taste of fresh leek scapes.
Ingredients for Soup
- 1 cup leek scapes, trimmed and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup whole milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh chives or parsley
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Leek scapes | 1 cup | Trimmed and chopped |
| Potatoes | 3 medium | Peeled and diced (2 cups) |
| Onion | 1 medium | Chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups | Low sodium preferred |
| Whole milk or cream | 1 cup | For richness |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 teaspoon | Optional aromatic note |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
| Fresh chives or parsley | For garnish | Optional |
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid browning.
- Add chopped leek scapes and diced potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until leek scapes start to soften.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add fresh thyme leaves. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer soup in batches to a blender and puree.
- Return the soup to low heat, stir in whole milk or cream. Heat gently for 3 to 5 minutes without boiling to avoid curdling.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
This soup delivers a velvety texture with the subtle pungency of leek scapes shining through. The cream and potatoes create a rich mouthfeel while the fresh herbs add brightness.
Recipe 4: Grilled Leek Scape Skewers
Grilling leek scapes brings out their natural sweetness while adding a smoky depth, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish. Let’s dive into how we can create flavorful Grilled Leek Scape Skewers with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients for Skewers
- 12 fresh leek scapes, trimmed and cut into 6-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the ingredients blend smoothly.
- Marinate the leek scapes
Add the trimmed leek scapes to the bowl. Toss them thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). If using charcoal, ensure coals are covered with white ash for consistent heat.
- Thread the leek scapes onto skewers
Carefully thread the marinated leek scape pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning once, until the leek scapes are tender and have visible grill marks. They should be slightly charred but not burnt.
- Serve immediately
Transfer the grilled leek scape skewers to a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle with extra lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives before serving.
| Step | Action | Timing | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare marinade | 5 minutes | N/A |
| 2 | Marinate leek scapes | 30 minutes | Room temperature |
| 3 | Preheat grill | 10 minutes | 400°F (Medium-high) |
| 4 | Thread leek scapes on skewers | 5 minutes | N/A |
| 5 | Grill skewers | 6-8 minutes | 400°F |
Pro Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. This simple consideration ensures your Grilled Leek Scape Skewers come out perfectly every time.
Tips for Cooking With Leek Scapes
To make the most of leek scapes’ vibrant flavor and texture, we need to understand how to pair them well and store them properly. These tips will enhance every dish we prepare using this unique ingredient.
Flavor Pairings
Leek scapes have a delicate mild onion-garlic taste that works beautifully with a variety of flavors. Here’s a quick guide to ingredients that complement their subtle yet distinct profile:
| Flavor Profile | Complementary Ingredients | Use Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Herbaceous & Fresh | Parsley, chives, thyme, basil | Garnishes, pestos, salads |
| Rich & Creamy | Parmesan, goat cheese, heavy cream | Sauces, soups, dressings |
| Nutty & Earthy | Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, almonds | Pesto bases, toppings, side dishes |
| Bright & Citrusy | Lemon juice, zest, vinegar | Dressings, marinades, finishing touches |
| Savory & Umami | Garlic, soy sauce, mushrooms | Stir-fries, sautés, grilled accompaniments |
“Pairing leek scapes with citrus and herbs brightens their flavor, while nuts and cheese add texture and richness,” is a great mantra to keep in mind.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage helps maintain leek scapes’ freshness and flavor. Here’s how we maximize their shelf life:
| Storage Method | Details | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Wrap in damp paper towel, place in a plastic bag or airtight container | 7 to 10 days |
| Freezing (Blanched) | Blanch quickly in boiling water, cool in ice bath, pat dry, then freeze in airtight bag | Up to 3 months |
| Room Temperature | Not recommended, as leek scapes wilt quickly in warm environments | Less than 1 day |
Tips for storage:
- Always store leek scapes untrimmed if possible, trimming just before use preserves freshness.
- Avoid washing before storing unless thoroughly dried to prevent moisture buildup.
- When freezing, blanching preserves color, texture, and flavor, making them ready for cooking directly from the freezer.
Using these tips, we ensure that our leek scapes stay fresh and flavorful, enhancing every recipe they touch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing leek scape recipes ahead of time can save us valuable effort and ensure we enjoy their fresh, vibrant flavors anytime. Here are detailed make-ahead tips to maintain optimal taste and texture for each dish featuring leek scapes.
Cleaning and Storing Fresh Leek Scapes
- Rinse leek scapes thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit.
- Trim the ends and peel the tough outer layer if necessary.
- Pat dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner.
- Wrap loosely in a damp paper towel and store in an airtight container or plastic bag.
- Refrigerate immediately to keep them crisp and fresh.
- Use within 3 to 5 days for the best flavor and texture.
| Step | Details | Storage Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Rinse under cold water | – |
| Trimming & peeling | Trim ends, remove tough outer layer | – |
| Drying | Pat dry or spin salad | – |
| Storing | Wrap in damp paper towel | Airtight container/plastic bag |
| Refrigeration time | 3 to 5 days | 38–40°F (3–4°C) optimal |
Make-Ahead for Leek Scape Pesto
- Prepare the pesto as directed.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top to prevent oxidation.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays and transfer cubes to a freezer bag; use within 3 months.
“Layering oil protects the vibrant green color and fresh herbal notes of leek scape pesto.”
Advance Preparation for Sautéed Leek Scapes
- Trim, clean, and slice the leek scapes.
- Store in an airtight container lined with paper towel to absorb moisture.
- Keep refrigerated and use within 2 to 3 days before sautéing.
- Sauté just before serving for maximum flavor.
Make-Ahead for Leek Scape and Potato Soup
- Prepare the soup fully.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in a sealed container.
- Soup will keep well for 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop; stir occasionally.
- For longer storage, freeze in portions; consume within 2 months.
- Avoid boiling during reheating to maintain creamy texture.
Preparing Grilled Leek Scape Skewers Ahead
- Marinate the leek scapes as instructed.
- Thread onto skewers after marinating.
- Wrap skewers tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling.
- Before cooking, allow skewers to come to room temperature for even grilling.
Additional Storage Tips for Leek Scape Dishes
| Dish | Refrigeration Duration | Freezing Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh leek scapes | 3–5 days | Not recommended | Maintain moisture, avoid sogginess |
| Leek scape pesto | 5 days | 3 months | Freeze in small portions for ease |
| Sautéed leek scapes | 2–3 days | Not recommended | Best freshly cooked |
| Leek scape and potato soup | 3–4 days | 2 months | Reheat gently to preserve texture |
| Grilled leek scape skewers | 24 hours (marinated) | Not recommended | Grill after marinating for best flavor |
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions we can enjoy the delicate and bold flavors of leek scapes anytime in our meals while maintaining their vibrant color, fresh aroma, and perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
To fully appreciate the vibrant flavor and versatility of leek scapes, we offer a variety of serving suggestions that showcase their unique taste and texture in diverse dishes.
Pairing With Main Courses
Sautéed leek scapes make an excellent side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Their mild onion-garlic flavor enhances the natural taste of proteins and adds a fresh, savory touch to any plate.
- Serve sautéed leek scapes with:
- Grilled chicken breast
- Oven-roasted salmon
- Herb-crusted lamb chops
- Add sliced leek scapes to warm grain bowls featuring quinoa, farro, or brown rice for an aromatic boost.
Incorporation in Pasta and Grains
Our vibrant leek scape pesto offers a delectable sauce base for pasta dishes or a flavorful drizzle over cooked grains and roasted vegetables.
- Toss pesto with:
- Spaghetti or fusilli pasta
- Warm farro or barley bowls
- Use as a spread on toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer.
Soup Presentation
For the Leek Scape and Potato Soup, garnish is key to highlighting freshness and adding color contrast.
- Top cups or bowls with:
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
- A swirl of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt
- Serve with crusty bread or lightly buttered toast for a comforting meal.
Grilled Leek Scape Skewers
Grilled leek scape skewers bring a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with summery dishes or buffet spreads.
- Serve skewers with:
- Citrus-dressed green salads
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Chilled cucumber or tomato salad
Flavor Enhancers and Garnishes
To elevate your leek scape dishes, consider the following complementary additions:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh lemon juice | Brightens and balances flavors |
| Toasted nuts | Adds crunch and depth |
| Parmesan cheese | Adds savory umami richness |
| Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, parsley) | Introduce aroma and freshness |
Practical Tips for Serving
- Serve pesto cold or at room temperature to preserve aroma.
- Present sautéed or grilled leek scapes immediately for best texture.
- Use fresh garnishes to create appealing visual contrasts.
- Portion soup in small bowls for tastings or larger bowls for hearty meals.
“Using leek scapes in diverse serving styles helps us appreciate their subtle flavors while creating dishes that feel fresh and exciting.”
These serving suggestions help us make the most of leek scapes’ delicate yet distinctive flavor in every meal.
Conclusion
Leek scapes offer a fresh and flavorful way to elevate our meals while reducing kitchen waste. By experimenting with different recipes and cooking techniques, we can unlock their unique taste and versatility. Whether used as a vibrant pesto, a savory sauté, or a hearty soup ingredient, leek scapes bring a delightful twist to everyday dishes.
With the right tools, fresh ingredients, and simple preparation, incorporating leek scapes into our cooking becomes both easy and rewarding. Let’s embrace this seasonal ingredient to create memorable meals that showcase its subtle onion-garlic flavor and impressive culinary potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are leek scapes?
Leek scapes are the tender, curly shoots that grow from leek bulbs before they fully mature. They have a mild onion-garlic flavor and are edible, offering a unique and fresh addition to many dishes.
How can I use leek scapes in cooking?
Leek scapes can be used in a variety of ways, including pesto, stir-fries, soups, salads, and grilled skewers. They add a delicate onion-garlic flavor and help reduce kitchen waste by using the entire plant.
What ingredients do I need for leek scape recipes?
Common ingredients for leek scape dishes include fresh leek scapes, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, nuts, and fresh herbs. These help balance and enhance the flavor of leek scapes.
What kitchen tools are essential for preparing leek scapes?
Key tools include a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, and blender or food processor. These help you clean, trim, chop, and blend leek scapes for recipes like pesto or sautéed dishes.
How do I clean and prepare leek scapes?
Clean leek scapes by rinsing under cold water to remove dirt. Trim off tough ends and any dry or damaged parts. Then slice or chop according to your recipe’s needs.
Can leek scape recipes be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare leek scapes ahead by cleaning and storing them properly in the refrigerator. Most dishes, including pesto and soups, keep well when refrigerated and taste great when reheated or served cold.
How should I store leek scapes for best freshness?
Store leek scapes in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Use them within a week for the best flavor and texture.
What dishes pair well with leek scapes?
Leek scapes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, pasta, grains, and fresh salads. They add brightness and mild savory notes that complement many flavors.
Are leek scapes nutritious?
Yes, leek scapes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. They provide a healthy, flavorful way to increase vegetable intake.
Why cook with leek scapes?
Cooking with leek scapes reduces food waste and introduces a fresh, seasonal ingredient with a unique mild onion-garlic taste that brightens dishes and adds variety to your meals.