The crunchy, refreshing taste of a California roll cucumber salad will transport you straight to the sunny coasts of California. Imagine biting into cool, crisp cucumbers paired with creamy avocado and a hint of tangy rice vinegar, all wrapped in a delightful salad that dances on your palate.
This salad is perfect for those lazy summer afternoons or family gatherings where you want something light yet satisfying. It brings back memories of beach picnics and laughter echoing through the air, promising a flavor experience that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This California roll cucumber salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for quick meals
- The fresh ingredients blend beautifully, creating a burst of flavors in every bite
- Its vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any table setting
- Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is versatile enough for any occasion
I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends devoured it in seconds, leaving only crumbs behind and asking for more.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Cucumbers: Choose firm cucumbers for maximum crunch; English cucumbers are great for this recipe.
-
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess; choose ones that yield slightly when pressed.
-
Rice Vinegar: A splash adds the perfect tang; opt for seasoned rice vinegar if you prefer extra flavor.
-
Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for depth; it gives a rich, nutty aroma to the salad.
-
Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a mild onion flavor; slice them thinly for best results.
-
Seaweed Salad (optional): For authenticity, add seaweed salad; it enhances the umami taste and texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Veggies: Begin by washing your cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline for uniformity.
Mix Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar and sesame oil until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and diced avocado. Pour your dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until coated.
Add Green Onions and Seaweed: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top along with seaweed salad if using. Gently fold in to maintain the integrity of the avocado pieces.
Chill Before Serving: Allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully while enhancing freshness.
Serve your California roll cucumber salad chilled as an appetizer or side dish—your friends will be asking you for this recipe before they even finish their first bite!
You Must Know
- This refreshing California roll cucumber salad combines crunch and flavor, making it a versatile dish
- Perfect as a side or light meal, it’s easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its vibrant colors and textures
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping ingredients: chop cucumbers, avocado, and imitation crab. Assemble everything in a bowl, then drizzle with soy sauce for that umami kick.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cucumbers for radishes or add sesame seeds for extra crunch. Spice it up with sriracha or fresh herbs like cilantro.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating as this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch; they make the salad refreshing
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning levels to your liking
- Presentation matters—arrange ingredients artfully for an impressive look on the table
Cooking this California roll cucumber salad brings back memories of summer picnics with friends, where every bite sparked joy and compliments flowed like lemonade.
FAQ
Can I use real crab instead of imitation?
Absolutely! Real crab adds a luxurious touch to your California roll cucumber salad.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Replace imitation crab with marinated tofu or additional vegetables for a delightful vegan option.
What’s the secret to perfect cucumber slices?
Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin slices that enhance the texture of your salad.
California Roll Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
California Roll Cucumber Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, and tangy rice vinegar. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for warm afternoons or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Serve it chilled as a side dish or light meal, and watch it disappear from the table in seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 medium firm cucumbers (sliced thin)
- 1 ripe avocado (diced)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 green onions (sliced thinly)
- Seaweed salad (optional)
Instructions
- Wash cucumbers under cold water and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar and sesame oil; adjust seasoning with salt if desired.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and diced avocado. Drizzle dressing over the top and gently toss to coat.
- Add chopped green onions and seaweed salad if using; fold gently to keep avocado intact.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: California
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Substitute cucumbers with radishes for a spicy kick or add sesame seeds for extra crunch. For a vegan version, replace imitation crab with marinated tofu or additional veggies.