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California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe

4 from 60 reviews

A refreshing and light California Roll Cucumber Salad inspired by sushi flavors, combining crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and shredded imitation crab meat tossed in a savory sesame-soy dressing. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or side dish with a hint of spice and crunch from toasted sesame seeds and nori strips.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped

Seafood

  • 1 cup imitation crab meat, shredded

Dressing & Seasoning

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 sheet nori, thinly sliced into strips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cucumbers: Thinly slice the cucumbers and place them in a colander. Lightly salt them and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, gently pat dry with paper towels to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  2. Make Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Whisk until smooth and well blended to create a rich, flavorful dressing.
  3. Combine Main Ingredients: Add the shredded imitation crab meat and diced avocado into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat each ingredient evenly without mashing the avocado.
  4. Add Cucumbers and Green Onions: Incorporate the cucumbers and finely chopped green onions into the bowl. Stir gently to combine all ingredients while maintaining the texture of the avocado and cucumbers.
  5. Garnish and Season: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and thin nori strips on top for added texture and flavor. Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.
  6. Chill and Serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator to chill for 15-20 minutes before serving. This chilling step enhances the flavors and keeps the salad refreshing.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of sriracha or omit it for a mild version.
  • Use Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise for authentic flavor and creaminess.
  • Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and crunch, but you can omit or substitute with chopped nuts if preferred.
  • The nori strips add a subtle seaweed flavor reminiscent of sushi; omit if you don’t have nori available.
  • This salad is best served within a day of preparation to enjoy fresh textures.

Keywords: California roll salad, cucumber salad, sushi salad, imitation crab salad, avocado salad, no cook salad, gluten free salad