California Roll Cucumber Salad (Print Version)

Crisp cucumbers with crab, creamy sesame dressing, and nori strips—California roll flavors in a refreshing bowl.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 scallions, finely chopped

→ Protein

03 - 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded

→ Dressing

04 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise, preferably Japanese Kewpie
05 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
06 - 1 teaspoon soy sauce
07 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

→ Toppings

08 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
09 - 2 sheets roasted seaweed (nori), cut into thin strips
10 - 1 tablespoon pickled ginger, chopped

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until smooth and well combined.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber and crab mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
04 - Add the scallions and half the sesame seeds to the salad. Mix lightly to incorporate without crushing the cucumbers.
05 - Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls for presentation.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
07 - Serve immediately for the best texture and crispness. The salad can be held refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It captures the essence of sushi night without any rolling or special equipment required
  • The creamy dressing and crisp vegetables create that perfect texture contrast we all crave
  • Ready in fifteen minutes meaning you can throw it together before friends arrive
02 -
  • Cucumbers release water as they sit so serve this within an hour of making for the best texture
  • The dressing might seem thick at first but the cucumbers will release moisture to create the perfect consistency
03 -
  • Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan for two minutes to bring out their natural oils and deepen the flavor
  • If making this ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss right before serving to maintain the perfect texture
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