This is the 1st of 3 summer salad recipes which are just right for a spot of alfresco dinning.  I will post the other two over the next couple of days.

This recipe can prepared on the BBQ or with a griddle pan. Either way it is a fantastic accompaniment alongside BBQ meats or as a satisfying alternative to vegy burgers for vegetarians.

Ingredients (Serves 6 as a side)

• 4 Leeks (trimmed and rinsed)
• 250g of feta
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. Cut the leeks in  half  and blanch in simmering water for 3 minutes.
2. Remove and allow to cool.
3. Cut the halved leeks in half lengthwise so you are left with two half cylinders. Be careful that the leeks don’t fall apart as the inside can easily come away.
4. Brush each with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place each on the BBQ or a griddle pan for 2-3 minutes on each side, making sure not to burn.
6. Whilst grilling, cut your feta into small cubes.
7. Once the leeks are cooked, mix in a bowl with the feta and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

You can make a dressing for this dish if you like but I like it with just a dash of extra virgin olive oil to bring out the flavour of the leeks and compliment to subtlety of the feta.