California Roll Cucumber Salad (Printable)

Crisp cucumbers and tender imitation crab blend with a creamy, tangy dressing and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

# Components:

→ 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 - 5 tablespoons 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)

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, mix thinly sliced cucumbers with shredded imitation crab or cubed tofu.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.
03 - Pour the dressing over cucumber and crab mixture; toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Incorporate chopped scallions and half the toasted sesame seeds; stir lightly.
05 - Transfer salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and optional pickled ginger.
07 - Serve chilled for optimal texture and freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in 15 minutes flat, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
  • The dressing tastes restaurant-quality but comes together with ingredients you probably already have.
  • Light enough to feel refreshing, filling enough to work as a real meal.
02 -
  • Timing is everything—this salad loses its crunch if you let it sit for more than 20 minutes, so dress it right before serving.
  • The nori should stay separate until the very end; if you mix it in early, it becomes chewy instead of maintaining that satisfying snap.
03 -
  • Chill your bowls in the freezer for five minutes before serving; cold ceramic keeps the salad crisp longer and feels luxurious.
  • If you're using imitation crab, check the ingredient list—some brands are better quality than others, and it's worth finding one you trust.
Return