This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad combines fresh cucumbers, creamy avocado, and crunchy crab for a light and tasty dish. It’s a cool twist on the classic sushi roll!
Making this salad always puts a smile on my face. I love to serve it on hot days; it’s refreshing and quick to whip up—perfect for when you’re feeling a bit lazy but still want something yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I recommend using large cucumbers for extra crunch. If you want a twist, you can use Persian cucumbers! They are sweeter and have a thinner skin, so you don’t have to peel them.
Imitation Crab Meat: This adds a seafood flavor similar to what you find in sushi. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using diced tofu or shredded hearts of palm instead.
Avocado: Fresh and creamy avocado is key here. If you need a substitute, try using mashed silken tofu for a similar texture without the fat. But I find that avocado adds a delicious richness!
Mayonnaise: Japanese Kewpie mayo is my favorite because it’s creamier and has a subtle sweetness. If you can’t find it, regular mayo works but you could also mix in a little bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness.
How Do I Perfectly Prepare the Cucumber?
The cucumbers are the star of this salad, so let’s make them shine! Start by washing them well to remove any dirt. You can slice them thinly or spiralize them; both give a fun texture.
- After slicing, lay the cucumbers on paper towels and sprinkle a little salt on them. This helps draw out excess moisture, keeping your salad crunchy!
- Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat dry with another paper towel. This step makes sure your salad isn’t soggy.
With these tips, your salad will be refreshing and delicious every time!
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced or spiralized
- 1 cup imitation crab meat, shredded or chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha or wasabi for a spicy kick
Garnishes:
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15–20 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll have a fresh and flavorful salad ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them thinly into rounds or spiralize them, whichever you prefer! After slicing, place them on a paper towel and pat dry to remove any excess water, which helps keep the salad crunchy.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded imitation crab meat and the diced avocado. Gently combine them to ensure that the avocado doesn’t get mashed up too much!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the optional sriracha or wasabi until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Mix it All Together:
Pour the dressing over the crab and avocado mixture, and gently fold it together until everything is well-coated. Then add the sliced cucumbers and green onion to the bowl and toss everything together lightly, ensuring it’s evenly combined.
5. Add the Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top. Next, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes to chill. This really helps meld the flavors together.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad a quick toss again, taste, and add salt if needed. Serve it chilled as a refreshing light appetizer or side dish!
Enjoy your fresh, easy California Roll Cucumber Salad!
FAQ for Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Fresh Crab Instead of Imitation Crab?
Absolutely! Fresh crab can add a wonderful flavor to the salad. Just make sure to shred or chop the crab meat into small pieces, similar to how you would with imitation crab. Adjust seasonings if needed since fresh crab can be saltier.
How Do I Keep Avocado from Browning?
To prevent the avocado from browning, make sure to mix it in with the dressing quickly after cutting. You can also squeeze a little lemon juice over the diced avocado before adding it to the salad; the acidity helps keep it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just keep the cucumbers, avocado, and dressing separate until right before serving to maintain the crunch and freshness. Mix everything together shortly before serving for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release more moisture over time, so it’s best consumed fresh. If you notice excess liquid, simply drain it before enjoying your leftovers!
