California Roll Cucumber Salad (Print version)

Crisp cucumber and crab combined with creamy avocado and a savory, sushi-style dressing for a refreshing dish.

# Required ingredients:

→ Salad

01 - 2 English cucumbers, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
02 - 1 cup crab meat or imitation crab, diced
03 - 1 avocado, cubed

→ Dressing

04 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
05 - 2 oz cream cheese, optional
06 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
07 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

→ Optional Add-Ons

08 - 1/4 cup chopped scallions
09 - 1/4 cup chopped radishes

# How to make it:

01 - Slice cucumbers into 1/8-inch thick rounds using a mandolin or sharp knife. Sprinkle lightly with salt and drain in a colander for 15-20 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine drained cucumber slices, diced crab, and cubed avocado. Add scallions and radishes if desired.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cream cheese if using, soy sauce, and half the sesame seeds. Start with half the mayo and cream cheese, adjusting for preferred creaminess and taste.
04 - Pour dressing over cucumber mixture and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
05 - Serve immediately, garnished with remaining sesame seeds. Chill briefly before serving for a colder salad.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 10 minutes, making it perfect for when guests arrive and you haven't started dinner yet.
  • The creamy dressing brings that umami richness without any heavy cooking involved.
  • It tastes like a deconstructed sushi roll, so you get all the flavor with zero rice commitment.
02 -
  • Don't skip the draining step with the cucumbers, or you'll end up with a puddle of water at the bottom of the bowl within minutes.
  • Add the avocado at the very last second before serving, because once it meets the salty dressing, it starts to brown and soften in ways that aren't pleasant.
03 -
  • If you want to level this up without much effort, add a tiny dash of wasabi to the dressing or sprinkle some nori flakes on top right before serving.
  • Using a mandoline will change your life here, but be careful with your fingers because those blades are genuinely sharp and unforgiving.
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