Featured Crop
California Grown Leeks
Leeks are a mild, onion-like vegetable with a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, commonly used in soups, stews, and sautés.
Cooking classes
Caramelized Leek Salad
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Brown Butter Braised Leeks
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Varieties
Popular varieties include American Flag, King Richard, and Tadorna, all thriving in the Valley’s fertile soil.
Prep Tips
Slice leeks lengthwise to rinse out any hidden grit, then chop and sauté, roast, or add to soups and pastas for a mild, savory flavor.
Nutrition
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, leeks also provide fiber and antioxidants that support heart health and digestion.
Cultivation
Leeks grow best in loose, well-drained soil with a neutral pH. Seeds are started indoors 8-10 weeks before transplanting or sown directly in early spring or fall. They require full sun and regular watering to maintain moisture. Leeks thrive in cool weather and develop their signature white stalks through a process called blanching, where soil is mounded around the base. Harvesting occurs when stalks reach about 1 inch in diameter.
When can I buy leeks?
Leeks are available year-round in California, with peak seasons in spring and fall when cool temperatures enhance their sweet, mild flavor. Hot weather can cause them to become tough and overly pungent. Look for fresh leeks at farmers' markets and grocery stores from March to May and September to November. Choose firm, white stalks with crisp green tops and avoid wilted or yellowing leaves.
Nutritional value of leeks
Leeks are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, particularly A, C, and K. They support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote digestive health. A 1-cup serving of cooked leeks contains about 31 calories and 2 grams of fiber.
How to store leeks
Store unwashed leeks in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to two weeks, loosely wrapped to retain moisture. Before using, trim the roots and rinse thoroughly to remove any grit. For longer storage, slice and freeze leeks in an airtight container—perfect for soups and sautés, though they may soften after thawing.
Explore other crops
Blueberries
Small but packed with flavor, California-grown blueberries are sweet, juicy, and rich in antioxidants.
Mushrooms
Grown in controlled environments, California mushrooms add rich umami flavor to soups, sauces, and sautés.
Tomatoes
Bursting with sweetness and acidity, vine-ripened tomatoes from the San Joaquin Valley are a summer favorite for salads, sauces, and sandwiches.
Bok Choy
A crisp, leafy green with a mild, peppery flavor, bok choy is a staple in stir-fries, soups, and salads.