Refreshing California Roll Cucumber Salad Recipe Delight

Recipe By:
James Walker
Updated:

The refreshing crunch of a California roll cucumber salad is like a mini-vacation for your taste buds. Picture this: crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and sweet crab sticks dancing together with a zesty dressing that tickles your senses. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up any meal or snack time.

I first fell in love with this vibrant salad at a summer picnic where my friend insisted on bringing her “secret recipe.” Spoiler alert: there was no secret; just fresh ingredients and laughter all around. This dish is ideal for sunny afternoons or as a delightful side to your favorite sushi night.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This California roll cucumber salad is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile combines sweetness and tang, offering a unique twist on traditional salads
  • Its bright colors and textures make it visually appealing, guaranteeing compliments from guests
  • Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or light lunch, it’s perfect for any occasion

I remember serving this salad to my family during a cozy dinner, and their delighted expressions made the effort worthwhile.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for that satisfying crunch; English cucumbers work wonderfully here.

  • Avocado: Ripe but not overly soft avocados add creaminess without overwhelming the dish.

  • Imitation Crab Sticks: These provide a subtle sweetness and mimic the texture of real crab—perfect for an easy recipe.

  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to balance flavors without overpowering the salad.

  • Rice Vinegar: This adds brightness; look for unseasoned rice vinegar for the best taste.

  • Sesame Oil: A little sesame oil goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad.

  • Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions introduce a mild onion flavor that complements all other ingredients beautifully.

  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add delightful crunch and nuttiness—don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by washing your cucumbers and avocado thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or knife for even pieces. Cut the avocado into cubes that won’t turn mushy.

Create Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. This combination will give your salad that zingy kick!

Combine Everything in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine sliced cucumbers, avocado cubes, and imitation crab sticks. Drizzle your homemade dressing over these fresh ingredients.

Add Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Toss finely chopped green onions into the mix along with toasted sesame seeds. This adds flavor as well as visual appeal to your colorful creation.

Toss Gently and Serve Immediately: Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss everything together to avoid mashing your avocados. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

This California roll cucumber salad is sure to impress everyone at your next gathering or even just make you feel fabulous while eating alone on the couch! Enjoy every crunchy bite!

You Must Know

  • This refreshing California roll cucumber salad is not just a side dish; it’s your new best friend on hot days
  • Combining crisp cucumbers and tangy flavors, this salad will leave you feeling light, satisfied, and ready to tackle anything

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the California roll cucumber salad perfectly, slice the cucumbers thinly first. Then combine them with other ingredients while preparing the dressing to ensure everything is fresh and flavorful.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add diced avocado or even some sesame seeds for extra crunch! Swapping rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar can also bring a zesty twist to your salad.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating as the cucumbers may lose their crispness; enjoy them cold!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For an added kick, sprinkle some chili flakes over the salad before serving
  • Use fresh cucumbers for that satisfying crunch that makes all the difference in texture
  • Draining excess water from sliced cucumbers prevents sogginess and enhances flavor absorption

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a summer barbecue when my friends devoured this salad before they even finished their main course. It was a hit!

FAQs

FAQ

What is a California roll cucumber salad?

California roll cucumber salad is a refreshing dish that combines cucumbers with sushi-inspired flavors.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Add ingredients like avocado or crab sticks to personalize your salad further.

How long does it last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh for up to two days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Print
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California Roll Cucumber Salad

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California Roll Cucumber Salad is the ultimate summer dish that effortlessly combines crisp cucumbers, creamy avocado, and sweet imitation crab sticks. Tossed in a zesty dressing of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this vibrant salad is perfect as a refreshing side or a light meal. It’s not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful medley of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of California.

  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (about 2 firm English cucumbers)
  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed
  • 1 cup imitation crab sticks, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or knife.
  2. Cube the avocado carefully to avoid mushiness.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and salt for the dressing.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, avocado cubes, and imitation crab sticks. Drizzle with the dressing.
  5. Add green onions and toasted sesame seeds to the mixing bowl.
  6. Gently toss with tongs or clean hands to combine without mashing the avocado.
  7. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.
  • Author: James
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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