California Roll Cucumber Salad (Printable)

Crisp cucumber salad with creamy mayo, crab, sesame seeds, and seaweed accents for a light, fresh bite.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Protein

03 - 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded (or 150g 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)

# Method:

01 - In a large bowl, place thinly sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab or tofu cubes.
02 - Whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth.
03 - Pour dressing over cucumber and crab mixture, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
04 - Incorporate finely chopped scallions and half of the toasted sesame seeds, mixing lightly to combine.
05 - Transfer the mixture to a serving platter or individual bowls.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
07 - Serve immediately to preserve crisp texture and freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes like sushi but comes together faster than you can say "delivery app."
  • The combination of crispy, creamy, and umami-rich makes it addictive without feeling heavy.
  • You can swap proteins easily—tofu works just as well if seafood isn't your thing.
02 -
  • Don't dress this more than 15 minutes before serving or the cucumbers will weep and dilute everything.
  • If you use extra-firm tofu instead of crab, press it first to remove moisture, then toss it in the dressing so it absorbs the flavors.
03 -
  • Japanese Kewpie mayo is worth seeking out—it's creamier and slightly sweet, making the dressing taste like it came from somewhere special.
  • If you're serving this at a party, keep the components separate until the last moment and assemble on a platter for maximum visual impact and texture preservation.
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