Celery Slaw with Seeds and Dates

Preparation

1. Pickled mustard seeds:

   Step 1

   Place mustard seeds in a small heatproof jar or bowl. Bring vinegar, sugar, and salt to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt. Pour brine over mustard seeds and let cool, about 2 hours.

2. Slaw and assembly:

   Step 2

   Bring shallot and oil to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook 1 minute (watch it carefully; you don’t want the shallot to take on any color). Let cool, then pour oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl; discard shallot.

   Step 3

   Whisk shallot oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar in a small bowl to combine; season vinaigrette with salt.

   Step 4

   Trim ends from cucumbers and very thinly slice lengthwise on a mandoline or with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife into long ribbons. Toss cucumbers, arugula, celery, celery leaves, and dates in a large bowl to combine.

   Step 5

   Drizzle half of dressing over slaw and add 2 Tbsp. drained pickled mustard seeds (save remaining mustard seeds for another use) and toss again to coat. Taste and season with salt.

   Step 6

   Transfer slaw to a platter and top with sesame seeds. Serve with remaining vinaigrette alongside.

3. Do Ahead

   Step 7

   Mustard seeds can be pickled 1 week ahead. Cover and chill.
   Vinaigrette can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before using.