This California Roll Cucumber Salad combines the cool, refreshing crunch of English cucumber with the creamy richness of avocado, whipped cream cheese, and Kewpie mayonnaise. Tossed with imitation crab, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds, this salad brings together the flavors of a California roll in a light and vibrant dish. It’s the perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is a creamy, refreshing take on the classic California roll, made with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
The English cucumber provides a fresh, crunchy base, while the imitation crab adds a savory, oceanic flavor. The combination of avocado, cream cheese, and Kewpie mayonnaise creates a rich and indulgent dressing that ties everything together.
The addition of soy sauce and toasted sesame seeds enhances the dish with umami and crunch. Whether as a side salad or a light appetizer, this dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful!
Ingredient Highlights
English Cucumber: Provides a refreshing, crisp texture to the salad.
Imitation Crab: Adds the savory flavor of seafood without the cost or complexity of real crab.
Avocado: Brings richness and creaminess to the salad.
Kewpie Mayonnaise and Whipped Cream Cheese: Combine to form a creamy, smooth dressing that coats all the ingredients.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted for extra crunch and flavor, these provide a subtle nutty finish to the salad.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Slice the Cucumber Thinly: For the best texture and even mixing, slice the English cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices using a mandolin or a sharp knife.
Customize the Seasoning: You can adjust the soy sauce or Kewpie mayonnaise based on your personal taste. If you like a tangier salad, add a touch more vinegar or soy sauce.
Add More Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle extra sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or nori strips for added flavor and garnish.
How to Make California Roll Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Slice the Cucumber
Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, carefully slice the English cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices. This ensures the cucumber slices are consistent in size and texture, making the salad easy to mix.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Place the sliced cucumber into a large deli container or glass jar.
Add in the chopped imitation crab, diced avocado, Kewpie mayonnaise, whipped cream cheese, soy sauce, and toasted sesame seeds. Make sure the ingredients are prepped and measured according to your preferences.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
Cover the container or jar with a lid securely.
Shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. The motion will coat the cucumber and other ingredients with the creamy dressing and soy sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Eat the salad immediately for the freshest taste.
You can either enjoy it directly from the jar for convenience or serve it in a bowl for a more formal presentation.
For an extra touch, sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top for garnish.
Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful salad!
Serving Ideas
This California Roll Cucumber Salad pairs wonderfully with sushi, grilled fish, or shrimp for a light and fresh meal.
It’s also a great addition to a summer BBQ or as a side dish to Asian-inspired meals. Serve with crispy wontons or spring rolls for added texture and variety.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay fresh in the fridge for a short time, allowing the flavors to marinate and deepen.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them in separate containers until ready to mix. Once mixed, the salad is best eaten within a day for the freshest taste.
Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Kewpie?
Yes, regular mayonnaise can be used, but Kewpie mayonnaise has a unique tang and creaminess that gives the salad an extra flavor boost.
Final Thoughts
This California Roll Cucumber Salad is a creamy, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that combines the best flavors of a California roll in a healthy, vibrant salad.
It’s perfect as a side dish or appetizer, and the combination of crunchy cucumber, savory crab, and creamy dressing will surely satisfy your taste buds. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a quick, light meal!
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber thinly sliced
- 4 imitation crab sticks chopped
- ½ avocado cubed
- 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream cheese
- 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds toasted
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into 1/8-inch thick slices.
- In a container or jar, combine the cucumber, imitation crab, avocado, mayonnaise, cream cheese, soy sauce, and sesame seeds.
- Shake to combine until well mixed.
- Serve immediately or chill. Garnish with extra sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Cream Cheese Tip: Whipped cream cheese blends more easily; if using block cream cheese, soften it first.
- Customize It: Add chopped nori sheets or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicier, more sushi-like flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with rice crackers, lettuce wraps, or sushi rice for a heartier dish.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge (airtight container) for up to 1 day.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo and tofu instead of crab and cream cheese.
- Low-Sodium Version: Choose low-sodium soy sauce to reduce saltiness.
