Eating the Alphabet-Curried Leak and Veggie Spread

Here it is time for another Eating the Alphabet post.  This month we are doing K or L.  I chose L and decided to make something with leeks.

I have not used leeks often, but after searching for recipes using leeks and developing a couple myself, I will use them more.  I sort of went on a “leek kick” and will be posting a couple more recipes using leeks soon.

For today’s post I chose Curried Leak and Veggie Spread.  I saw a recipe over at allrecipes for a Leek Dip.  It sounded good, but by the time I got done, what I made did not resemble that original recipe at all.

To prepare the leek, slice it into thin slices and chop fine.  Put into a bowl of water and swish around to remove any grit or dirt.  Remove from the water and rinse in a colander.  Turn into a clean towel and squeeze to remove excess water.

If you don't like curry powder or fennel seeds, use another herb or just leave them out.  I just happen to like curry, but this is perfectly good without it.

To serve this, I like to split pita bread, cut it into triangles, brush it with olive oil, and toast them in a pan on the stove or in the oven.  This is also good with any kind of cracker or melba toast.

Note:  The veggies in this will begin to release their water so this is best eaten in a day or three.  After that you are apt to have dip.  Still good, but no longer spreadable.

Curried Leek and Veggie Spread
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese (I use 1/3 less fat), softened
1 c. creamy salad dressing like Miracle Whip (low fat is OK)
1/2 c. sour cream, I use low fat
1 leek, white and light green park, finely chopped
1/4 c. sliced green onions
1/2 c. finely chopped red pepper
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1/2 c. finely chopped carrot
! T. lemon juice
1/2 t. curry powder
1/2 t. fennel seed
salt and pepper to taste, if desired
6 strips bacon fried crisp and crumbled or 1/4 c. ready-cooked real bacon bits

Combine all ingredients together in a bowl and mix very well.  Place in a covered container and place in refrigerator.  Chill at least 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to blend.  Makes about 2 cups.  Serve with pita bread triangles, crackers or melba toast.

For Eating the Alphabet each month we post a recipe starting with a specific letter of the alphabet.  Next month the letters will be M, N, and/or O.  I invite you to join in the fun.  It is hosted by Brenda from Meal Planning Magic.  Just hop on over and sign up.

Check out the links below to see what the other "Eating the Alphabet" bloggers have posted this month.