This refreshing California roll cucumber salad is a light and crunchy dish with fresh cucumbers, avocado, and seaweed. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for a quick snack or side!
You can really have fun with this salad! I love adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for extra crunch. It’s a great way to enjoy sushi flavors without the hassle—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I like using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. If they’re not available, any cucumber variety works. Just slice them thin for maximum crunch!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess to the salad. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use diced mango for a sweet touch instead.
Imitation Crab: This adds that classic California roll flavor. You can replace it with cooked shrimp or even omit it for a vegetarian version. Tofu can also work as a substitute!
Nori: Nori gives a lovely umami taste. If you don’t have any, seaweed snacks or even finely chopped spinach can provide a similar flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Dressing is Just Right?
Getting the dressing balanced is key to a tasty salad. Start by whisking the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and salt until the sugar fully dissolves. Taste the dressing, and adjust as needed—you might like it a bit sweeter or tangier, depending on your preference!
- If too sour, add a touch more sugar.
- If it’s too salty, a splash of vinegar can help balance it out.
- Mix the dressing gently with the salad so you don’t mash the avocado.
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup imitation crab meat, shredded (optional)
- 1 sheet of nori (seaweed), cut into thin strips
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious salad takes about 10 minutes of preparation time. A quick chill for 10-15 minutes will help the flavors come together beautifully. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
Begin by thinly slicing the cucumbers and dicing the avocado. If you’re using imitation crab, shred it into smaller pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine these fresh ingredients along with the thin strips of nori.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Add a pinch of salt and mix until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will create a flavorful dressing for your salad!
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the dressing evenly coats the ingredients without mashing the avocado.
4. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top of the salad for an added crunch and flavor boost. These toppings not only look great but enhance the overall dish!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together. When you’re ready, serve it as a refreshing side dish or light appetizer. Enjoy your tasty creation!
FAQ for Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are a great option due to their crisp texture and fewer seeds, you can use any type of cucumber you have on hand. Just be sure to slice them thinly for the best results!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can sprinkle a little extra lemon juice on top before storing to help reduce browning.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the salad a few hours in advance! Just combine all the ingredients except for the avocado and nori, then add them right before serving to keep everything fresh. The dressing can also be made ahead and stored separately.
What if I Don’t Have Nori?
No worries! If you don’t have nori on hand, you can substitute it with seaweed snacks or even finely chopped spinach. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still give you that refreshing taste!
