The lighter side

Well the footing still sucks. Sheets of ice under the freshly fallen snow is very treacherous stuff. I really do hate this time of year.

So... let's eat!

This time of year of course is comfort food season and that's about the only good thing I have to say about the wintertime. But even during the wintertime I enjoy something from the lighter side of the menu now and then. And no this is not bland and boring!

Celery Salad on Soba Noodles
This is a summertime dish but it's flavorful and refreshing anytime. Nothing could be easier to prepare.

Blanch some celery stalks in boiling water for a minute. Fish them out and shock them in ice water. Take them out and dry them in some paper towels. Split them down the middle and slice them into sections - however you like. Anywhere from 1/4 inch to an inch or so. Just make them uniform.

The dressing:

• Two tablespoons soy sauce
  
• Two tablespoons sesame oil (Sesame oil is good stuff. Use it more often!)
  
• One tablespoon honey
  
• One teaspoon rice wine vinegar
  
• Some finely chopped red onion
  
• Some jalapeño or serano wheels
  

Put the celery over some cold (soba, udon or lo mein) noodles.

Whisk the dressing ingredients together. Sometimes I add a little sriracha sauce.

Pour the dressing over the celery and noodles and toss them together.

Hmmmm...what on earth would you pair with Celery Salad on Soba Noodles? Well I just happen to have (smack my forehead) - sake in the frig! Yes. Goes perfectly.