Bamboo Zen Celery Cucumber (Print)

Minimalist arrangement of crisp celery and cucumber sticks offers a fresh and light starter.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers
02 - 4 large celery stalks

→ Garnish

03 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
04 - 1 tablespoon light soy sauce or tamari
05 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
06 - Fresh mint or basil leaves

# Directions:

01 - Thoroughly wash cucumbers and celery stalks under cold running water.
02 - Remove the ends of the cucumbers and celery stalks evenly.
03 - Slice the cucumbers and celery into uniform sticks approximately 4 to 5 inches in length.
04 - Place the vegetable sticks vertically and horizontally on a serving platter to mimic minimalist bamboo structures.
05 - Optionally sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and garnish with fresh mint or basil leaves to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
06 - Serve chilled alongside a dipping sauce made by combining soy sauce or tamari with rice vinegar.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's ready in 10 minutes but looks like you spent the afternoon planning it.
  • The cool, crisp bite is perfect when you want something refreshing without heaviness.
  • It works for unexpected guests, fussy eaters, and anyone seeking a moment of calm on their plate.
02 -
  • If your vegetables are at room temperature, they'll taste dull and feel limp—chill them for at least 15 minutes before serving, or soak them in ice water for extra snap.
  • The sesame seeds are optional only in name; they're what transforms this from a vegetable plate into something with dimension and intention.
03 -
  • Soak your vegetables in ice water for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to achieve maximum crunch and refresh them if they've been cut ahead of time.
  • Toast your own sesame seeds in a dry pan for two minutes if you can—store-bought toasted seeds lose their fragrance quickly, but freshly toasted ones fill your kitchen with warmth.
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