Know-How: Leeks have a well-deserved reputation for being gritty. To clean, split leeks lengthwise, then cut crosswise into half circles. Put cut leeks in a salad spinner with water (or set the basket in a large bowl of water if your spinner doesn't hold water). Swish the leeks to flush out the dirt, then let it settle to the bottom of the bowl. Lift the basket to leave all the grit behind in the water, drain, and spin-dry if needed.