So Fresh Cucumber California Roll Salad Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful So Fresh Cucumber California Roll Salad inspired by the classic sushi roll. This no-cook salad combines crisp English cucumbers, flaky imitation crab meat, and creamy avocado tossed in a tangy mayo-based dressing with sesame oil, soy sauce, and a hint of sriracha for a perfect balance of flavors. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds and optional nori strips, it makes an easy and light appetizer or side dish ready in just 15 minutes.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers, diced
- 1 pound imitation crab meat, flaked
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime juice (optional, for avocado)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo recommended)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (or more to taste)
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 2–3 sheets nori seaweed, cut into thin strips (optional)
- Dice the cucumbers: Cut the English cucumbers into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure easy eating and good balance in every bite.
- Flake the imitation crab: Break apart the imitation crab meat into small, flaky pieces for even distribution throughout the salad.
- Dice the avocado: Cut the ripe avocados into pieces similar in size to the cucumbers. Toss them gently with a bit of lime juice to prevent browning, if desired.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the diced cucumbers, flaked crab meat, and diced avocado without mashing or bruising the avocado.
- Toss with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, being careful not to overmix.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and optional nori seaweed strips evenly over the salad for added texture and flavor.
- Serve or chill: Serve immediately for maximum freshness, or chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
- Using Japanese mayonnaise adds a richer, creamier texture and authentic flavor to the dressing.
- Lime juice helps keep the avocado from browning and adds a fresh citrus note.
- Toasted sesame seeds can be prepared ahead by dry roasting in a pan until golden and fragrant.
- For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of sriracha or serve extra on the side.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
- Optional nori strips add a pleasant umami flavor but can be omitted for a simpler preparation.
Keywords: Cucumber Salad, California Roll Salad, Imitation Crab Salad, Japanese Inspired Salad, No Cook Salad, Avocado Salad, Healthy Salad, Quick Salad