Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad – Fresh, Crunchy & Flavorful
Enjoy all the flavors of a California roll in a healthy, refreshing salad! This Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad combines crisp cucumbers, imitation crab, avocado, and a tangy sesame dressing for a light, flavorful dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or potlucks. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Equipment
- Chef’s knife or mandoline
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk for dressing
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Optional: microplane for ginger or garlic zest
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers or 4 Kirby cucumbers
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup imitation crab or real crab, shredded or diced
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1–2 tsp sriracha or spicy mayo (optional)
- 1–2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
Prep Vegetables & Crab:
- Slice cucumbers thinly using a knife or mandoline.
- Cut avocado into small cubes or thin slices.
- Shred or dice crab meat.
Make Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and optional sriracha.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, gently toss cucumbers, avocado, and crab with dressing until evenly coated.
Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
- Serve chilled.
Optional Tip:
- Let salad sit 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld without losing cucumber crispness.
Notes
- Cucumber crispness: Slice thinly and serve shortly after tossing to maintain crunch.
- Avocado: Add just before serving to prevent browning.
- Crab options: Imitation crab works well for cost and convenience; real crab adds richer flavor.
- Dressing adjustment: Taste and adjust sesame oil, soy sauce, or honey to suit personal preference.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare cucumbers and crab in advance, but combine with avocado and dressing just before serving.
- Optional spice: Sriracha or spicy mayo can be added for a gentle kick.