Why You'll Love It
- - Light, refreshing texture that awakens the palate
- - Minimal prep—perfect for busy evenings
- - Familiar California roll flavors in a salad
- - Beautiful colors that brighten the table
*"I made this for a potluck and everyone kept asking for the recipe—so simple, yet so satisfying!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Cucumber: Choose firm, seed‑less cucumbers for crispness; slice thinly for a delicate bite
- Avocado: Ripe but firm avocado adds buttery richness; add at the end to avoid browning
- Imitation crab: Provides subtle seafood notes without raw fish; shred gently
- Sesame oil: A little goes a long way—adds nutty depth and aroma
- Rice vinegar: Bright acidity that balances the oil; use a good quality vinegar
- Soy sauce (low‑sodium): Adds umami; adjust to taste, especially if using salty crab sticks
Complete Cooking Process
-
Ingredient Readiness:
Wash cucumbers, pat dry, and slice into thin ribbons; cube avocado and set aside.
-
Flavor Development:
Whisk sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, a touch of honey, and a pinch of ginger until emulsified.
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Texture Control:
Toss cucumber ribbons with the dressing first, letting them soften slightly while retaining crunch.
-
Finishing Touches:
Fold in avocado cubes and shredded crab, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions.
-
Serving Timing:
Serve immediately or let sit 10 minutes for flavors to meld; best enjoyed chilled.
- Pat the cucumber dry; excess water dilutes the dressing
- Add avocado right before serving to keep its color
- Use toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch
- A dash of sriracha can give a gentle heat if desired
Pro Tips
I find that a short rest in the fridge lets the sesame oil scent settle, making each bite feel even more aromatic. So, if you have a few extra minutes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill—then serve with confidence.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Use seed‑less cucumbers for the cleanest crunch
- Dress the salad lightly—over‑dressing mutes texture
- Serve chilled for maximum refreshment
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use real crab?
Yes, you can substitute cooked crab meat; just shred it and add a touch less seasoning.
→ How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the avocado cubes and toss quickly.
→ Is it okay to prepare this ahead of time?
Prepare the dressing and slice the cucumbers ahead; combine everything no more than 30 minutes before serving.
→ What can I substitute for sesame oil?
A mild nut oil like walnut oil works, though it will change the flavor profile.
→ Can I make this vegan?
Replace imitation crab with shredded carrots or king oyster mushrooms for a satisfying texture.
→ How long does it keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; add avocado just before serving for freshness.
Chef's Tips
If the cucumbers release water, drain before adding dressing.,Adjust honey to balance acidity if desired.,A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
210
Calories
8g
Protein
12g
Carbs
14g
Fat
Taste Profile
A bright, lightly sweet‑savory salad with gentle acidity
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Provides a similar texture; season lightly with soy sauce.
Milder, slightly sweeter; reduce honey if needed.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add a teaspoon of sriracha and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
Mediterranean Style
Swap imitation crab for toasted pine nuts and toss in chopped kalamata olives for a briny twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑dressing the cucumbers, which makes them soggy
- Adding avocado too early, causing it to brown
- Using low‑quality sesame oil that can taste bitter
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dressing and slice the cucumbers up to a day ahead; keep them dry and combine just before serving for optimal crunch.
Leftover Ideas
Gently re‑toss any leftovers with a drizzle of fresh sesame oil; add a splash of rice vinegar to revive brightness.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Prep cucumbers, avocado, and crab; toast sesame seeds.
Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth.
Toss cucumber ribbons with half the dressing; let rest.
Add avocado, crab, scallions, remaining dressing; toss gently and serve.
Easy California Roll Cucumber Salad
A bright, crunchy cucumber salad inspired by the classic California roll—perfect for a light snack or an elegant appetizer.
Timing
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
0 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 2 large seedless cucumbers, thinly sliced into ribbons
- 02 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 03 4 oz imitation crab meat, shredded
- 04 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 05 2 scallions, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 01 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 02 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 03 1 tsp low‑sodium soy sauce
- 04 1 tsp honey
- 05 ¼ tsp grated fresh ginger
Instructions
Wash the cucumbers, pat them dry, and slice into thin ribbons using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
Place the cucumber ribbons in a large bowl, pour half the dressing over them, and toss gently; let sit for 5 minutes.
Add the diced avocado, shredded crab, scallions, and the remaining dressing; toss lightly to combine.
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and serve chilled, perhaps alongside a simple Asian cucumber side.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If the cucumbers release water, drain before adding dressing.
- 2 Adjust honey to balance acidity if desired.
- 3 A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Tools You'll Need
-
Mandoline or sharp knife
-
Large mixing bowl
-
Small whisk or fork
-
Measuring spoons
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Serving platter
Must-Know Tips
- Pat cucumbers dry to avoid a watery salad
- Add avocado last to keep its color vibrant
- Taste the dressing before adding; adjust salt or sweetness as needed
Professional Secrets
- Use room‑temperature sesame oil for a smoother emulsion
- Toast sesame seeds lightly for extra aroma
- Add a dash of citrus zest for a bright finish
Recipe by
Oliver Brooks“Every great meal begins with the perfect bite. My passion is crafting irresistible starters that wow.” 🧀🍢
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