California Roll Cucumber Salad (Printer-Friendly)

Crisp cucumber salad with creamy mayo dressing, crab, sesame seeds, and nori. Ready in 15 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Protein

03 - 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded (or extra-firm tofu, cubed for vegetarian option)

→ Dressing

04 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
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 (optional)

# How to Cook:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab (or tofu).
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber and crab mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Add the scallions and half the sesame seeds; mix lightly.
05 - Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
07 - Serve immediately for best texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Light and refreshing while still being satisfying
  • All the flavors of a California roll without the rice
  • Easy to customize for different dietary needs
  • Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
02 -
  • Cut nori strips with kitchen scissors for clean, even pieces
  • Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes for enhanced flavor
  • Chill serving bowls in the refrigerator before plating for extra freshness
  • Double-check imitation crab ingredient labels if you have shellfish allergies
  • Prepare dressing up to a day ahead and store covered in refrigerator
Go Back