Description
This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad combines the fresh, crisp taste of thinly sliced cucumbers with creamy avocado and savory imitation crab meat. Tossed in a tangy rice vinegar and soy sauce dressing with hints of sesame and ginger, this no-cook salad offers the flavors of a classic California roll in a light, refreshing dish perfect for a quick lunch or side.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (or real crab if preferred), shredded
Dressing
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or mandolin. If desired, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with paper towels. This step helps prevent the salad from becoming too watery but is optional.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, diced avocado, and shredded imitation crab meat. Gently toss to combine, taking care not to mash the avocado.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or sugar (if using), and ground ginger (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness as preferred.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber, avocado, and crab mixture. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors, or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes if you prefer a cooler, slightly marinated taste.
Notes
- Lightly salting cucumbers and draining excess water helps keep the salad from becoming watery, but you can skip this step if short on time.
- Use real crab meat instead of imitation crab for a more authentic flavor, though it will increase cost.
- The honey or sugar in the dressing is optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on your sweetness preference.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to a day.
