California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe
Introduction
This California Roll Cucumber Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic sushi roll. Crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and savory imitation crab come together with a tangy dressing for a light and satisfying dish. Perfect as a side or a light lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber
- 4 pieces imitation crab sticks, chopped
- ½ piece avocado, cubed
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash the cucumber and avocado. Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, then cut into thin half-moons.
- Step 2: Chop the imitation crab sticks into bite-sized pieces and cube the avocado carefully after removing the pit.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the Kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, and soy sauce. Stir until the dressing is smooth.
- Step 4: Add the cucumber slices, chopped crab, and avocado cubes to the bowl. Gently toss to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
- Step 5: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then sprinkle them over the salad.
- Step 6: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and optionally chill for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your California Roll Cucumber Salad!
Tips & Variations
- Substitute imitation crab with real crab meat or tofu for a different protein option.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of Kewpie mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Try tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Reduce or omit the whipped cream cheese for a lighter dish or replace with dairy-free alternatives.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Because of the avocado and dressing, it’s best eaten fresh or within a day. Stir gently before serving if separated. Avoid freezing as the texture will be affected.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie?
Yes, regular mayonnaise can be used, but Kewpie mayonnaise adds a slightly sweeter and richer flavor that complements the salad well.
How can I keep the avocado from browning?
Adding the avocado just before serving and incorporating it into the dressing helps slow browning. You can also sprinkle a little lemon or lime juice on the avocado cubes for extra protection.
PrintCalifornia Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe
This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and light twist on the classic sushi roll flavors. Featuring crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and savory imitation crab tossed in a tangy mayo and soy dressing, this salad is perfect as a quick appetizer or side dish. Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for a satisfying bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber, sliced and seeded into thin half-moons
- 4 pieces imitation crab sticks, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ piece avocado, cubed
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash the cucumber and avocado thoroughly. Slice the cucumber lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Then cut the cucumber into thin half-moon slices. Chop the imitation crab sticks into bite-sized pieces. Carefully cube the avocado after removing the pit.
- Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine the Kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the sliced cucumber, chopped imitation crab, and cubed avocado into the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing.
- Toast Sesame Seeds: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the sesame seeds until golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top. Optionally, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy your California Roll Cucumber Salad!
Notes
- Use real crab meat or tofu as alternatives to imitation crab sticks if desired.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for Kewpie mayonnaise to reduce fat content.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
- Reduce or omit whipped cream cheese for a lighter salad or replace with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for a vegan variation.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor but is optional.
Keywords: California Roll Salad, Cucumber Salad, Imitation Crab Salad, Japanese Salad, Easy Salad, Healthy Salad, Avocado Salad, Sesame Seed Salad
