Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic sushi roll. Combining crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and savory imitation crab with a tangy dressing, it’s perfect as a light lunch or a tasty side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber
• 4 imitation crab sticks, chopped
• 1/2 avocado, cubed
• 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, carefully slice the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices. This ensures even texture and size for mixing.
2. Step 2: Place the sliced cucumber in a large deli container or glass jar. Add the chopped imitation crab, cubed avocado, Kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds.
3. Step 3: Securely cover the container or jar with a lid. Shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the creamy dressing and soy sauce.
4. Step 4: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste. Enjoy it directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl. Optionally, garnish with extra sesame seeds.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh avocado and adjust the amount of mayonnaise and cream cheese based on how creamy you prefer the salad.
• For extra crunch, add sliced radishes or thinly sliced carrots.
• Substitute imitation crab with cooked shrimp or fresh crab meat for a different seafood flavor.
• Sprinkle a little chili flakes or drizzle sriracha for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store the salad in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Due to the avocado, it is best enjoyed fresh to prevent browning. If needed, stir gently before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture will change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayonnaise?

Yes, regular mayonnaise works fine, though Kewpie mayonnaise has a slightly sweeter and richer flavor that complements this salad well.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Use ripe but firm avocado and mix it in just before serving. The soy sauce and acidic ingredients help slow browning, but it’s best to enjoy the salad immediately for optimal freshness.

Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 96 reviews

This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad offers a fresh, light twist on the classic sushi roll. Made with thinly sliced cucumber, imitation crab, creamy avocado, and a delightful mix of kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds, this salad captures the flavors of a California roll without the rice or seaweed. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing, and perfect as a healthy snack or side dish.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber
• 4 imitation crab sticks, chopped
• 1/2 avocado, cubed

Dressing and Garnish

• 2 tablespoons kewpie mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

1. Slice the Cucumber: Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, carefully slice the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices. This ensures a consistent texture and size, perfect for mixing evenly with the other ingredients.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the sliced cucumber into a large deli container or glass jar. Add in the diced imitation crab, cubed avocado, kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds. Ensure all ingredients are properly prepared and measured to suit your taste preferences.
3. Mix the Salad: Cover the container or jar with a secure lid. Shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. The shaking motion coats the cucumber and other ingredients harmoniously with the creamy mixtures and soy sauce.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Eat the mixed salad immediately for the freshest taste. You can eat it directly from the jar for convenience or serve it in a bowl for a more formal presentation. Optionally, garnish with additional sesame seeds for an extra touch.

Notes

• For best results, use a mandolin slicer to ensure even thin cucumber slices.
• Imitation crab can be substituted with real crab meat for a more authentic flavor.
• Kewpie mayonnaise is preferred for its mild sweetness and creaminess but regular mayonnaise can be used.
• The salad is best enjoyed fresh; storing for too long may cause the cucumber to release water and become soggy.
• Optional: add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance flavors if desired.
• Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden to enhance their flavor.

Keywords: California roll salad, cucumber salad, imitation crab salad, Japanese-inspired salad, easy no-cook salad, avocado cucumber salad