Each week, we'll be offering original recipes and unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

Anything in the Allium family is super for us -- onions, garlic, scallions -- but the leek is the most overlooked.

Why?

We don't know how to use it, recipes aren't readily available, leeks aren't as common in markets as onions and garlic.

I suppose the list of reasons is a valid one, but I am here to say, don't overlook your leeks!

Leeks not only help raise your "good" cholesterol and lower your "bad" cholesterol, but they will also help protect from cancer and stabilize blood sugar levels.

And since we get leeks every week from our CSA farm, let's cook with leeks.
Yukon Gold Potato Salad with Leeks -- Use plain, organic yogurt instead of creme fraiche and you've got yourself a healthy recipe.

Tagliatelle with Leeks and Shrimp -- Who doesn't like shrimp and pasta? Add some leeks for a sure winner.

Sautéed Carrots and Leeks -- Imagine this recipe, with its taste of optional nutmeg, at your dinner table . . . mmmmmmm. . . .

Baked Leeks -- In a bath of veggie broth and margarine (please use organic butter!), how can you go wrong/?

Yum, find a plethora of leek recipes at Mariquita Farm, from risottos to soups, paired with lemon, beet greens and black eyed peas and other delectable ingredients.

Still not sure what to do with those leeks? Use them in place of onions, throw them into omelets, stir them into any veggie sauté, pasta or soup you're cooking, or eat them on bruschetta or crackers with smoked fish and capers.

What is your favorite way to eat leeks?