Description
A refreshing and light California Roll Cucumber Salad that combines crisp cucumber slices with creamy avocado, crab meat, and a savory Japanese mayo-based dressing. This salad is perfect as a quick appetizer or side dish inspired by the flavors of a California sushi roll.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 English cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup crab meat or imitation crab, diced
- 1 avocado, cubed
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped radishes (optional)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise, preferably Japanese mayonnaise
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife. Lightly salt the cucumber slices and place them in a colander to drain for 15-20 minutes. After draining, pat them thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps keep the salad crisp.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained cucumber slices, diced crab meat, and cubed avocado. If using, add chopped scallions and radishes. Gently toss all the ingredients together to distribute them evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese (if using), soy sauce, and half of the sesame seeds until smooth and well combined. You can adjust the amounts of mayonnaise and cream cheese to achieve the desired consistency and flavor intensity.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber mixture. Gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly, being careful not to damage the avocado cubes.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle with the remaining sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate briefly for a chilled presentation. For extra flair, consider adding wasabi or nori flakes as additional garnishes.
Notes
- Lightly salting and draining cucumbers helps remove excess water, preventing a soggy salad.
- Using Japanese mayonnaise adds a subtle sweetness and richness, but regular mayonnaise will also work in a pinch.
- Optional cream cheese adds extra creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter salad.
- Customize with scallions and radishes according to taste preferences.
- Serve immediately for best texture or chill briefly to enhance flavors.
