California Roll Cucumber Salad (Printable version)

Crisp cucumber salad inspired by California rolls, featuring creamy mayo, imitation crab, and toasted sesame with nori strips.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 - 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)

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab or cubed tofu.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber and crab mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Add the scallions and half the sesame seeds, mixing lightly to incorporate.
05 - Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired. Serve immediately for optimal texture.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It gives you all the satisfying flavors of sushi without any rolling, pressing, or worrying about your rice falling apart.
  • The creamy sesame dressing clings to every crisp cucumber slice, and the nori adds that perfect briny snap.
  • You can make it in the time it takes to order takeout, and it feels impressive enough to serve to guests.
02 -
  • Do not add the nori strips until the very last moment, because they turn from crispy to soggy in about three minutes flat.
  • If you are making this ahead, keep the dressing and the vegetables separate in the fridge and toss them together right before serving so the cucumbers stay crunchy.
03 -
  • Toast your sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for two minutes, shaking the pan constantly, and they will smell ten times nuttier than the ones straight from the jar.
  • Use a mandoline to slice the cucumbers if you have one, because uniform slices look prettier and hold the dressing better than uneven chunks.
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