I love making this California Roll Cucumber Salad whenever I want something fresh, creamy, and quick to prepare. It brings together the classic flavors of a California roll with crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, and a rich sesame-soy dressing. I find it perfect for a light lunch, an easy side dish, or even a refreshing snack on warm days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large English cucumber
4 imitation crab sticks, diced
½ avocado, diced
2 tablespoons Kewpie mayo
2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
Directions
I wash the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds or half-moons depending on the texture I want.
I place the sliced cucumber into a large mixing bowl.
I add the diced imitation crab sticks and avocado to the bowl.
In a separate small bowl, I mix the Kewpie mayo, whipped cream cheese, and soy sauce until the dressing becomes smooth and creamy.
I pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
I sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top and lightly toss once more.
I serve the salad immediately or chill it for 10–15 minutes when I want an extra refreshing flavor.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add cooked shrimp instead of imitation crab for a different seafood flavor.
I like mixing in shredded carrots or sliced radishes for extra crunch and color.
For a spicy version, I stir a little sriracha into the dressing.
I occasionally add chopped nori sheets to make the salad taste even more like sushi.
When I want more protein, I top the salad with edamame or cubed tofu.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Since avocado can brown over time, I prefer enjoying the salad fresh. I do not recommend reheating this recipe because the cucumber and avocado taste best when cold and crisp.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time, but I prefer mixing everything together right before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie mayo?
I can use regular mayonnaise if needed, although I find Kewpie mayo gives the salad a richer and slightly sweeter flavor.
Is this salad low carb?
Yes, I consider this salad a great low-carb option because it uses fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing without added sugars.
What can I serve with this salad?
I like serving it with sushi rolls, grilled chicken, rice bowls, or even miso soup for a complete meal.
Can I use real crab meat?
Yes, I can easily replace imitation crab with real crab meat when I want a more authentic seafood flavor.
Conclusion
I enjoy how simple, creamy, and refreshing this California Roll Cucumber Salad is. The combination of crunchy cucumber, creamy avocado, and savory dressing creates a light dish that still feels satisfying. Whether I make it for lunch, a side dish, or a quick snack, this salad always delivers fresh flavor with very little effort.
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California Roll Cucumber Salad
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This California Roll Cucumber Salad combines crisp cucumber, creamy avocado, imitation crab, and a rich sesame-soy dressing for a fresh and satisfying dish. It delivers classic sushi-inspired flavors in a quick and easy no-cook salad.
Ingredients
1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
4 imitation crab sticks, diced
½ avocado, diced
2 tablespoons Kewpie mayo
2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Wash the cucumber thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Place the sliced cucumber into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the diced imitation crab sticks and avocado to the bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the Kewpie mayo, whipped cream cheese, and soy sauce until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top and toss lightly once more.
- Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for an extra refreshing flavor.
Notes
Substitute cooked shrimp or real crab meat for imitation crab if desired.
Add shredded carrots, sliced radishes, or chopped nori for extra texture and flavor.
Mix a little sriracha into the dressing for a spicy variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Japanese Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
