Some ideas come to us when we simply want something fun to snack on. These Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens were exactly that. We wanted something crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful—but still light enough to serve at any time. So we mixed corn flour with grated cheese and garlic, shaped the dough into small sticks, and baked them until golden. Then we sprinkled black sesame seeds on top and served everything with a creamy white dipping sauce. To finish, we added a generous handful of microgreens. The result? A plate that’s impossible to ignore and even harder to stop eating.
Why Choose Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens?
We always look for recipes that are fun to prepare and even more fun to eat. These savory sticks check both boxes. First of all, they smell amazing while baking—the garlic and cheese melt into the dough and create that irresistible crust. Then, when you dip them in the creamy white sauce, the flavor gets even better. And let’s not forget the sesame. The crunch of the black seeds adds a layer of texture that really completes the bite. Plus, the microgreens on the side aren’t just decoration. They bring a fresh, peppery finish that lifts the whole dish. That’s why we keep going back to this recipe—it simply works.
Ingredients for Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens
You only need a few ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Here’s what we use:
For the sticks:
- 150g corn flour
- 100g grated yellow cheese (any firm melting cheese works well)
- 1 clove garlic, finely grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 50–70ml warm water (adjust as needed)
- Black sesame seeds for topping
For the dip:
- 3 tbsp sour cream or cream cheese
- A splash of lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: crushed garlic or chopped herbs
To serve:
- A handful of fresh microgreens (we love using radish or broccoli microgreens)
This combination gives you the perfect balance between crispy, creamy, and fresh. And because the ingredients are flexible, you can adjust them depending on what’s in your kitchen.
How to Prepare Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine the corn flour, grated cheese, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Slowly add the warm water while mixing with a spoon or your hands. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Once ready, roll it out and cut into thin strips. Place the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle black sesame seeds on top. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and crisp. While they cool slightly, stir together the ingredients for the dipping sauce. Then serve everything with a small bunch of microgreens on the side.
Serving Suggestions
These savory sticks are perfect for sharing, especially when served warm from the oven. You can place them in a rustic bowl with the dip in the center, or arrange them neatly on a wooden board. Add the microgreens around the edges for a fresh look, or scatter them gently across the plate. These sticks go well with drinks, with soups, or even as a side for larger meals. When we make them for guests, they disappear fast—so we always bake extra. If you’re making them ahead, reheat briefly in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked crunch.
What Makes Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens Special?
There’s something nostalgic and playful about crunchy cheese sticks, but we wanted to make them feel new. The mix of corn flour and cheese brings that comforting flavor, while the garlic gives them depth. Then the black sesame adds a toasty bite and visual contrast. And just when everything feels warm and rich, the microgreens offer a clean, crisp counterpoint. We love that kind of balance. Plus, the dipping sauce brings it all together with just the right amount of creaminess. These sticks aren’t just snacks—they’re an experience on a plate. Every piece has flavor, texture, and a bit of fun.
Variations and Combinations
We’ve tried a few fun twists on these Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens, and they’ve all worked great. You can swap the cheese for feta or smoked cheese if you want a stronger taste. You can also mix herbs into the dough—like oregano, parsley, or thyme—for extra aroma. Sometimes we add chili flakes for a spicy version. For a nutty edge, try using ground sunflower seeds instead of some of the flour. You can even shape them into circles or triangles if you want a different look. The microgreens work with all of these ideas, and they always help tie everything together in a fresh and colorful way.
Final Thoughts on Savory Sticks with Black Sesame and Microgreens
These savory sticks started as a fun experiment, and now they’re one of our favorite go-to snacks. They’re quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and always disappear faster than expected. They also look great on any table, especially when paired with something creamy and fresh. The microgreens bring that final touch of brightness that keeps each bite interesting. If you enjoy this kind of light, creative cooking, we think you’ll love exploring more of our ideas. Check out our full Microgreens Recipes collection for more inspiration—because sometimes, just a handful of greens can change everything.
Looking for more creative ways to use corn in your kitchen? Explore our tasty corn-based recipe ideas.