Here is the complete recipe profile for Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad, with all required sections included and wide lines removed:
Introduction
This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad brings all the beloved flavors of a California sushi roll into a light, refreshing, and fuss-free dish. With crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and sweet imitation crab, it’s the perfect quick lunch, side dish, or healthy snack that delivers sushi vibes without the rolling mat.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The California roll originated in the United States during the 1960s–70s, popularizing sushi among Western diners by replacing raw fish with imitation crab and avocado. This salad takes those same ingredients and reimagines them in a deconstructed, no-fuss format. It’s a fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors and American convenience, symbolizing the evolution of cultural tastes and food accessibility.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 2–3)
- 1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
- 4 imitation crab sticks (surimi), diced
- ½ avocado, diced
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (white or toasted)
- Pinch of salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- A dash of sriracha or wasabi for heat
- Thinly sliced green onions or chives
- Nori (seaweed) strips or flakes for authentic sushi flair
- Pickled ginger on the side
- Cucumber spirals or ribbon-style slices for presentation
- A sprinkle of furikake seasoning
Tips for Success
- Use a seedless English cucumber for less moisture and better texture.
- Toss the cucumber in a little salt and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then pat dry to prevent a watery salad.
- Use chilled ingredients for the most refreshing bite.
- Gently stir in the avocado last to keep it intact.
Instructions
- Prep cucumber: Slice or julienne the cucumber. Optional: toss with a pinch of salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the diced imitation crab, avocado, and prepared cucumber.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Toss salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional toppings like green onion or nori. Serve immediately for best texture.
Description
The salad is crunchy, creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet. The cucumber provides a refreshing bite, the avocado lends smooth richness, and the imitation crab brings a familiar umami flavor. It’s sushi in salad form—no rolling required.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 3 servings)
- Calories: ~160
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: ~320mg
Conclusion
This cucumber salad is a fast, flavorful tribute to the California roll that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether served as a light lunch, sushi side, or party appetizer, it’s an easy way to enjoy your sushi fix with no rice or seaweed rolling involved.
Recommendation
Enjoy with a side of miso soup, edamame, or a chilled green tea. It’s also great as a refreshing dish to break up a heavy meal or to serve on warm days.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish is a perfect example of healthful indulgence—light, nutritious, and packed with feel-good ingredients like cucumber, avocado, and lean protein from imitation crab. It satisfies sushi cravings without the calories of rice or fried components, proving you can enjoy flavor, convenience, and wellness all in one bowl.
Would you like a version with real crab or vegan adaptations next?