Ingredients

• 12 medium leeks (about 4 1/2 pounds), tough outer leaves discarded
• Vegetable oil, for grilling
• 1/3 cup minced assorted fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, mint, basil, and tarragon
• 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup kalamata or other brine-cured black olives, pitted and diced fine
• 4 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
• 3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped flat-leaf parsley, for garnish
• Diced hard-boiled egg, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Trim the leeks to about 7 inches long. Split them lengthwise to within 1 1/2 inches of the root end, leaving the root end intact. Submerge the leeks in a large bowl of water, let them soak to release any dirt or sand, for several minutes. Lift the leeks out of the water and discard the water.
2. Pour about 1-inch of water into a large saucepan, and set up a collapsible steamer inside. Bring the water to boil and steam the leeks, covered, until crisp-tender, about 6 minutes. Shock the leeks in a bowl of ice water and drain. Cut the leeks apart at the root ends and drain them on paper towels. Transfer the leeks to a shallow dish.
3. Brush the leeks with the vegetable oil and, working in batches, grill them over medium heat until charred and soft, about 4 minutes per side. (The leeks may be prepared up to the is point 1 day in advance and kept covered and chilled.)
4. In a bowl whisk together the herbs, bell pepper, olives, mustard, and vinegar. While whisking, add the oil in a stream until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the vinaigrette over the leeks and turn them to coat evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or up to overnight.
6. When ready to serve, arrange the leeks on a platter and pour any remaining vinaigrette over the top. Garnish with red pepper, parsley, and egg.