First, cut off the root end of the leek. Cut off the root and about 1” from the root to get rid of any stringy ends. 

Discard the root ends.

Next, cut off the dark green tops. The goal is to only have the light green portion of the leek remaining at the top.

Discard the dark green tops. 

Cut the leeks into half-moon shapes or your desired shape for your meal.

Place the cut pieces in a strainer.

Rinse and massage the cut leek pieces with lukewarm water to remove any dirt.