There’s something incredibly refreshing about a California roll cucumber salad. Imagine the crisp crunch of fresh cucumbers mingling with creamy avocado, all drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. This dish is like a summer day in a bowl, bursting with flavors and textures that make you want to dive right in.
I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic. The sun was shining, friends were laughing, and as I served it up, the compliments poured in faster than I could say “California roll cucumber salad.” It’s perfect for those laid-back gatherings or as a light meal on a hot day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This California roll cucumber salad is easy to whip up, making meal prep feel like a breeze
- Its fresh flavors and vibrant colors will steal the show at any gathering
- You can tailor it to fit your preferences, adding your favorite ingredients
- Perfect for picnics or quick lunches, this salad is both delicious and versatile
When I brought this salad to my friend’s barbecue, they couldn’t get enough of it! Their kids even asked for seconds, which is always a win when serving healthy dishes.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cucumbers: Opt for English cucumbers for their thin skin and fewer seeds; they add the best crunch.
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Avocado: Use ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they’ll give a creamy texture.
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Carrots: Shred fresh carrots for sweetness and color; they add beautiful visual appeal.
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Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar gives the dressing its tang; choose unseasoned for best results.
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Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for a nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce allows you to control saltiness while adding depth to the dressing.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide freshness and a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
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Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds are great for garnish; they add crunch and an appealing look to your salad.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and slicing the cucumbers into thin rounds. Shredding the carrots adds an exciting texture contrast. Make sure everything is bite-sized for easy munching.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and a touch of honey if you want sweetness. This blend should be tangy yet smooth.
Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, shredded carrots, sliced avocado, and green onions. Pour the dressing over them and toss gently to coat everything evenly without mashing any ingredients.
Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving. They not only enhance flavors but also give your salad that Instagram-worthy look!
Chill Before Serving: For maximum refreshment, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoying this California roll cucumber salad feels like summer all year round! It’s light enough not to weigh you down but packed full of vibrant flavors that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for something quick and healthy during lunch hour, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion.
So grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends (and yourself) with this delightful recipe!
You Must Know
- This refreshing California roll cucumber salad is a delightful twist that combines crisp vegetables and savory flavors
- It’s the perfect side dish for sushi night or a light lunch, offering a burst of freshness that’s hard to resist
- The combination of textures and colors makes it visually appealing too
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing the cucumbers thinly for maximum crunch, then combine them with other ingredients while letting the seasoning soak in.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add avocado or crab meat to enhance the salad’s flavor profile, making it even more satisfying and delicious.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it chilled instead.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your cucumbers sit in salt for about 15 minutes before rinsing
- This draws out excess moisture and enhances their crunch
- Experiment with rice vinegar for a tangy twist, and don’t shy away from adding sesame seeds for that authentic touch
Sharing this California roll cucumber salad at a family gathering opened my eyes to how versatile salads can be. Everyone loved it, and I felt like a culinary star that day!
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in California roll cucumber salad?
The essential ingredients are cucumbers, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and seaweed.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance for convenience.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if using it as an ingredient.

California Roll Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
California Roll Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish that combines the crispness of fresh cucumbers, creamy avocado, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a tangy sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch, this salad bursts with flavor and color, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes that will transport you to a sunny California day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (unseasoned)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing and slicing the cucumbers and shredding the carrots. Dice the avocado and chop the green onions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and optional honey for sweetness.
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, carrots, avocado, and green onions. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: California
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg