California Roll Cucumber Salad (Print View)

Crisp cucumbers with creamy sesame dressing, imitation crab, and nori—California roll flavors in a fresh salad.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
02 - 2 scallions, finely chopped

→ Protein

03 - 1 cup imitation crab sticks, shredded

→ Dressing

04 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
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

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and shredded imitation crab.
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; mix lightly.
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 best texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crisp cucumber and umami seaweed create that satisfying California roll experience without any sushi-rolling skills required.
  • It comes together in just 15 minutes, perfect for those evenings when cooking feels impossible but takeout seems excessive.
02 -
  • Never dress this salad more than 15 minutes before serving or the cucumbers will release too much water and dilute that beautiful creamy dressing.
  • Cutting the nori with kitchen scissors works infinitely better than trying to use a knife, which just tears and frustrates.
03 -
  • If your cucumbers are particularly watery, halve them lengthwise and run a spoon down the center to remove seeds before slicing, which prevents the dreaded soggy salad syndrome.
  • For the ultimate umami boost, sprinkle a tiny amount of MSG or dashi powder into the dressing, a restaurant secret that makes flavors pop without anyone being able to identify why.
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