Description
California roll cucumber salad brings sushi-inspired flavors to a refreshing side dish without traditional rice. Crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and zesty sesame dressing create a light, delightful companion for grilled meats or as a standalone lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, sliced thin
- 1/2 cup imitation crab, shredded (or real crab)
- 1 avocado, diced
Rice and Garnish Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked sushi rice (optional, for a heartier salad)
- 1/2 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into thin strips (optional)
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black)
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Thinly slice cucumbers and transfer to a mixing vessel, creating a crisp base for the salad.
- Incorporate shredded imitation crab meat, diced avocado, and optional sushi rice into the cucumber foundation.
- Craft a vibrant dressing by vigorously blending rice vinegar, soy sauce, mayonnaise, sesame oil, granulated sugar, and a touch of sriracha in a compact container.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad components, using a gentle folding technique to ensure even coating without bruising delicate ingredients.
- Elevate the presentation by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds, finely chopped green onions, and delicate nori strips across the surface.
- For optimal taste experience, serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- Slice cucumbers super thin using a mandoline or sharp knife for the best texture and even marination.
- Rinse cooked rice under cold water to prevent clumping and create a light, fluffy base for the salad.
- Substitute mayo with Greek yogurt or vegan mayo to accommodate dietary preferences and reduce calories.
- Let the salad rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg