This bright and refreshing California Roll Cucumber Salad is packed with crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and sweet imitation crab sticks. It’s like a sushi party in a bowl!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just slice, mix, and you’re ready to enjoy! Perfect for a light lunch or as a fun side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s healthy—score!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English cucumbers are a great choice because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too! Just peel if the skin is too thick.
Imitation Crab: This adds the seafood flavor without the cost! If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can swap it for firm tofu, or leave it out altogether for a lighter salad.
Avocado: Use a ripe avocado for creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you can replace it with diced mango for a fun twist or just increase the amount of cucumbers.
Mayonnaise: Japanese mayo like Kewpie has a unique flavor but regular mayo works too. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt; it adds creaminess and is healthier!
How Can I Perfectly Combine the Ingredients?
The key to a well-mixed salad is gentle tossing. After preparing the dressing, add the veggies and crab. But be careful when mixing, as you don’t want to mush the avocado! Use two spoons to gently fold everything together.
- Start with the dressing; this ensures all the ingredients get evenly coated.
- Adding ingredients gradually helps keep everything intact. Toss a bit, check if more dressing is needed, then adjust.
- Chill before serving. This time enhances the flavors and makes the salad refreshing!
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 8 oz imitation crab sticks, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo like Kewpie)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp sriracha or to taste (optional for a little heat)
- 1 tbsp black sesame seeds
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, making the total time around 20-25 minutes. Absolutely quick and perfect!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and sriracha (if you’re feeling adventurous) until the mixture is smooth. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the sliced cucumbers, chopped imitation crab sticks, diced avocado, and thinly sliced green onions into the bowl with the dressing. It’s a colorful mix!
3. Toss Gently:
With two utensils, gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is nicely coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much—you want it to stay creamy!
4. Garnish:
Sprinkle the black sesame seeds over the top for a lovely finish and that delightful crunch.
5. Chill and Serve:
Put the salad in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld and serve it cold. Enjoy your refreshing side dish or a light lunch!
This salad beautifully captures the essence of California rolls with creamy avocado, sweet crab, and crisp cucumbers—all topped with a tangy sesame dressing. Perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Can I Substitute the Imitation Crab?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can either use firm tofu, diced shrimp, or simply omit it altogether to enjoy a lighter salad.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may soften a bit due to the cucumbers releasing water, but it will still taste great!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You sure can! Just prepare the salad and dressing, but keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain the crispiness of the cucumbers and freshness of the avocado.
What Dressing Alternatives Can I Use?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. You can also add a dash of lime juice for an extra zing!
