This colorful California roll cucumber salad brings all the fun of sushi to your table without the fuss! Crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and a touch of soy sauce make it refreshing.
I love how quick this salad is to whip up. It’s my go-to for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, if you have some leftover sushi ingredients, throw them in for extra flavor! 🥒🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
English Cucumbers: These are perfect for salads as they have thinner skin and less seeds. If you can’t find them, pick regular cucumbers but peel them to avoid bitterness.
Imitation Crab Meat: This is a staple in California rolls. For a seafood-free option, try using diced tofu or leave it out altogether for a vegetarian salad.
Avocado: Ripe avocados give creaminess to the salad. If you’re in a pinch, substitute with a bit of mashed banana for a different twist, or just call it out if you don’t want avocado.
Japanese Mayo: Kewpie mayo adds a unique flavor with its creaminess. Regular mayo works too, but for a similar taste, mix in a dash of rice vinegar and a little sugar.
What’s the Best Way to Prep My Veggies for This Salad?
Getting your veggies ready is key for this salad. Here’s how you can make sure they’re perfectly prepared:
- Cucumbers: Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline for even cuts. This helps them absorb the dressing better.
- Avocado: Dice it just before assembling to keep it fresh and prevent browning. A little lime juice can also help!
- Green Onions: Slice them thinly, and include the green tops for color and crunch.
Chilling the salad will let all the flavors blend together, so be patient! Enjoy a fresh taste of California with every bite.
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup imitation crab meat, shredded or chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
Dressing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo like Kewpie)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
To Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha or another hot sauce for a spicy kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep, and then it’s best to chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. So, in total, plan for about 25 minutes to enjoy this fresh dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced English cucumbers. They’re crunchy and really refreshing! Then, toss in the shredded imitation crab meat and diced avocado. Be gentle with the avocado so it doesn’t mash up too much.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until it’s all smooth and creamy. This dressing packs tons of flavor!
3. Combine and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss it all together. You want to coat everything without squishing the avocado. Yum!
4. Add the Garnishes:
Now, sprinkle in the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. If you like a little heat, stir in the sriracha at this point as well. Give it another light toss.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and makes it extra refreshing when you serve it. Once it’s chilled, serve it cold as a yummy side or light meal.
Enjoy this fresh, easy salad inspired by the flavors of a classic California roll! Perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Fresh Crab Instead of Imitation Crab Meat?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh crab meat for a more authentic taste! Just make sure to chop it finely so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cucumbers might lose some crunch, so it’s best to eat it fresh. If you want to keep it crisp, add the avocado just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the imitation crab with diced tofu, chickpeas, or even leave it out entirely for a refreshing salad. Use vegan mayo for the dressing to keep it entirely plant-based.
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, sushi, or as a standalone light meal. For a heartier option, serve it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens!
