Description
A refreshing and light California Roll Cucumber Salad that captures the flavors of a California sushi roll in a healthy, no-cook salad form. Crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and savory imitation crab are tossed in a tangy, slightly spicy dressing with sesame and nori accents, perfect as a quick lunch or sushi-inspired side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded or chopped
- 1 small avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked sushi rice (optional for texture)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
Toppings
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 sheet nori, cut into thin strips
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber, shredded or chopped imitation crab, diced avocado, and the cooked sushi rice if using. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha if you prefer a bit of heat. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients without mashing the avocado or rice. Ensure that the dressing is evenly distributed.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and thin strips of nori over the salad to add texture and authentic Japanese flavors.
- Serve Immediately: For the freshest texture and taste, serve this salad right away. It makes a great light lunch or a flavorful side dish to any meal.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, omit the sushi rice entirely.
- Substitute real crab meat or cooked shrimp for imitation crab if preferred for added authenticity.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not keep well for long periods, as the avocado may brown and the cucumber releases water.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha to your spice preference or omit it for a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired