Fresh California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe (Print Version)
Enjoy a deconstructed California Roll in a refreshing cucumber salad. This easy recipe brings all your favorite sushi flavors without the fuss of rolling. Perfect for a light meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Japanese
# Ingredients:
→ Crisp Cucumber Foundation
01 -
2 large English cucumbers, about 2 lbs (thinly sliced or spiralized)
→ California Roll Essentials
02 -
8 oz imitation crab meat, flaked
03 -
1 large avocado, diced
04 -
2 sheets nori (seaweed snacks), crumbled or thinly sliced
→ Creamy Umami Dressing
05 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
06 -
2 tbsp rice vinegar
07 -
1 tbsp soy sauce
08 -
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
09 -
1 tsp sriracha (optional, for a kick)
10 -
1 tsp granulated sugar
11 -
1/4 tsp salt
→ Crunchy Toppings & Aromatics
12 -
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
13 -
2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
14 -
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Thinly slice or spiralize 2 large English cucumbers (about 2 lbs). For the crispiest California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe, you may lightly salt them and let them sit for 10 minutes, then gently squeeze out any excess water. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, and optional 1 tsp sriracha. Mix until smooth and well combined.
03 -
Add 8 oz flaked imitation crab meat and 1 large diced avocado to the bowl with the prepared cucumbers. Gently toss these ingredients together to distribute them evenly, forming the base of your delicious California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe.
04 -
Pour the prepared creamy umami dressing over the cucumber, crab, and avocado mixture. Gently toss everything until all ingredients are thoroughly coated with the dressing. Ensure an even distribution for optimal flavor in every bite.
05 -
Crumble or thinly slice 2 sheets nori (seaweed snacks) directly into the salad. Gently fold the nori into the mixture. This adds a crucial umami depth and texture, completing the authentic California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe experience.
06 -
Garnish the salad with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 tbsp thinly sliced green onions. Optionally, stir in 1 tsp grated fresh ginger for an extra zing. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for best flavor.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra crispness, after slicing the cucumbers, you can salt them and let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat them dry or gently squeeze out excess water before adding to the salad.
02 -
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep the nori separate and add just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
03 -
Feel free to substitute the imitation crab with cooked shrimp, real crab meat, or even smoked salmon for a different flavor profile.
04 -
Serve this refreshing salad as a light lunch, a side dish, or an appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
Small mixing bowl
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 393 kcal
Total Fat: 31 g
Total Carbohydrate: 20 g
Protein: 8 g