There’s something undeniably fresh and vibrant about a California roll cucumber salad that just screams “sunshine on a plate.” Imagine biting into a crisp, cool cucumber, drizzled with a tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds like a salsa dancer at a summer festival. This salad is not just food; it’s an experience, an invitation to savor the moment and revel in the joys of fresh ingredients. Whether it’s a hot day when you need something light or you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, this salad will surely steal the show.

As I prepare this delightful dish, I can’t help but recall the potluck last summer where I first introduced my friends to this gem. Their eyes widened in delight as they took their first bites. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and zesty flavors had everyone clamoring for the recipe before they even finished their servings. So let’s dive into this fabulous California roll cucumber salad together and create some lasting memories in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This California roll cucumber salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for quick meals or gatherings
- The flavor profile bursts with freshness from the cucumbers and tangy dressing
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, ensuring it stands out on any table
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or main event, it’s sure to please everyone
I remember serving this California roll cucumber salad at my aunt’s birthday party last year, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing it was.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
English Cucumbers: These long cucumbers are perfect for salads due to their thin skin and minimal seeds.
Avocado: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed; they add creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
Carrots: Shredded carrots bring color and crunch; use fresh ones for maximum sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: This tangy vinegar adds brightness; look for unseasoned varieties for better control over flavors.
Soy Sauce: A splash of low-sodium soy sauce enhances umami without overwhelming the dish.
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle gives the salad rich depth; opt for toasted sesame oil for added flavor.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch; sprinkle generously just before serving for an extra touch.
Green Onions: They provide a sharp bite; slice them thinly to avoid overpowering other flavors.
Cilantro (optional): If you love herbs, fresh cilantro adds a lovely aroma and brightness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the English cucumbers thinly, ensuring you maintain that satisfying crunch throughout the salad.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and any optional seasonings you fancy. The aroma will be tantalizing—think of it as your culinary cheerleader!
Toss It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, diced avocado, and green onions. Pour the dressing over everything and give it all a gentle toss until well-coated.
Add Finishing Touches: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top along with chopped cilantro if using. This step adds both texture and visual appeal—trust me; your guests will appreciate it!
Chill Before Serving: Let your creation sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully together while keeping everything refreshingly cool.
Enjoy diving into this California roll cucumber salad that brings bold flavors together in every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful California roll cucumber salad is not just refreshing; it’s a crunchy explosion of flavors
- Perfect for summer gatherings or as a light snack, it’s a versatile dish that can brighten any meal
- Plus, the colors are Instagram-ready!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing cucumbers thinly, then mix them with sushi vinegar while preparing the rest of your ingredients to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cucumbers for radishes or add avocado for creaminess. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Avoid reheating; enjoy it cold for the best taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make this California roll cucumber salad shine, use fresh, firm cucumbers for maximum crunch
- Try chilling the salad for 30 minutes before serving to enhance its flavors
- The addition of seaweed gives a lovely umami touch that complements the freshness nicely
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of summer picnics where my friends couldn’t get enough of this amazing salad. Their requests for seconds made my day!
FAQ
What is the best type of cucumber for this salad?
Persian or English cucumbers work best due to their crisp texture and mild flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but consume it within two days for optimal freshness and crunchiness.
How can I make this salad gluten-free?
Ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in your dressing for safety.

California Roll Cucumber Salad
California Roll Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Crisp English cucumbers, creamy avocado, and crunchy carrots come together in a tangy dressing that tantalizes the taste buds. This easy-to-make salad is not only visually stunning but also versatile enough to serve as a side or a light main dish.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced English cucumbers (about 1 large cucumber)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and slice the cucumbers thinly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- In a large bowl, mix sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, diced avocado, and green onions. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and cilantro if desired.
- Refrigerate for about 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: California
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg