California roll cucumber salad (Printable Version)

Crisp cucumbers mixed with creamy mayo, imitation crab, and sesame, topped with seaweed and pickled ginger.

# 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)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab or tofu.
02 - Whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth.
03 - Pour the dressing over the cucumber and crab mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
04 - Mix in the finely chopped scallions and half of the toasted sesame seeds lightly.
05 - Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
06 - Top with nori strips, remaining sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
07 - Serve immediately to maintain a crisp texture and refreshing flavor.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It comes together in 15 minutes with zero cooking, perfect for when you want something fresh without heating up the kitchen.
  • The contrast of crispy cucumber, silky mayo, and chewy nori strips makes every bite interesting.
  • It works as a light lunch, a side dish, or a starter that impresses without looking like you tried too hard.
02 -
  • The biggest mistake is dressing the salad more than 15 minutes before eating it; the cucumbers will release water and turn the whole thing mushy.
  • Toasting your own sesame seeds and nori makes a difference that's almost impossible to explain until you taste it side by side.
03 -
  • Buy the best Kewpie mayo you can find; it's the secret ingredient that makes people ask for the recipe.
  • Toast your nori sheets in a dry pan for 30 seconds right before serving, and the whole salad will taste like it came from a restaurant.
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