Looking for a refreshing and delicious salad that tastes like your favorite sushi roll—without the hassle of rolling? This California Roll Cucumber Salad delivers all the flavors of a classic California roll in a quick, easy, and healthy format. Made with crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, imitation crab, and a tangy-savory dressing, it’s the perfect dish for sushi lovers and salad fans alike. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together, meal-prepping for lunch, or simply craving sushi without the effort, this salad is a must-try. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with umami, and requires no special equipment or sushi skills. Plus, it’s customizable and can easily be made low-carb or keto-friendly.
🧂 Ingredients:
- 1 large English cucumber
- 4 imitation crab sticks, diced
- ½ avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
👩‍🍳 Directions – Step-by-Step:
1. Slice the Cucumber
Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice your English cucumber into thin rounds, about â…› inch thick. Thin slices allow the cucumber to soak up all the delicious dressing and add a refreshing crunch to the salad.
2. Prep the Filling Ingredients
Dice your imitation crab sticks into bite-sized pieces. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and gently scoop out the flesh before dicing it into small cubes.
3. Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a large mixing bowl or container with a lid, whisk together the Kewpie mayo, whipped cream cheese, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds. Stir until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
4. Combine Everything
Add the sliced cucumbers, diced crab, and avocado to the bowl. Toss gently or cover the container and shake to coat all ingredients evenly in the dressing.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately in a bowl or directly from the jar. For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle a few more sesame seeds on top. You can also chill it for 10–15 minutes to enhance the refreshing taste.
đź’ˇ Tips & Variations:
- Low-carb option: Replace imitation crab with cooked shrimp or real crab meat for a lower-carb, high-protein variation.
- Add spice: Mix a little sriracha or wasabi into the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Extra crunch: Top with crushed seaweed snacks or crispy wonton strips.
- Meal prep friendly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes just like a sushi roll
- No rolling required – ready in under 10 minutes
- Refreshing and perfect for warm weather
- Great for meal prep, potlucks, or light dinners
- Customizable to dietary preferences
đź“Ś Final Thoughts
This California Roll Cucumber Salad is a game-changer when it comes to quick, healthy, and flavorful meals. It captures the beloved flavors of sushi in a fuss-free, salad-friendly format. Whether you’re craving something cool and creamy or need a unique dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Have you tried making a sushi-inspired salad before? Let us know your twist on this California roll classic!