California Roll Cukes
California Roll Cukes are a refreshingly crisp and flavorful snack inspired by the classic California roll sushi. Combining cool cucumber rounds filled with a creamy avocado and crab mixture, toasted sesame seeds, and a hint of soy and rice vinegar, this healthy and light appetizer is perfect for snacking, parties, or a stylish appetizer. Easy to prepare with no cooking required, these bite-sized treats offer a vibrant taste and satisfying texture.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 cucumber cups 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Firm, fresh cucumbers (quantity depends on servings, approx. 2 medium cucumbers)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 oz imitation crab or real crab meat, shredded
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
Optional Ingredients
- Sriracha or wasabi mayo, for spicy kick
- Finely chopped toasted nori or roasted seaweed flakes, for extra crunch
- Fresh dill or cilantro leaves, for herb infusion
- Low-sodium soy sauce, for heart-friendly variation
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them into thick, bite-sized rounds to serve as the base cups for the filling.
- Hollow the Centers: Using a melon baller or small spoon, gently scoop out the center of each cucumber slice, creating a small cavity without piercing through the bottom, making a perfect nest for the filling.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine diced avocado, shredded imitation or real crab meat, a splash of soy sauce, and a small drizzle of rice vinegar. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated and flavors meld together.
- Fill the Cucumbers: Spoon the creamy crab-avocado mixture into each hollowed cucumber slice, packing them just enough to hold their shape without spilling over.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and add optional toppings like a dollop of spicy mayo or chopped fresh herbs. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch.
Notes
- Choose firm cucumbers to maintain structural integrity so they don’t get soggy quickly.
- Do not overfill the cucumber cups to avoid messiness and ensure easy snacking.
- Assemble just before serving to retain crisp texture and bright flavors.
- Use a perfectly ripe avocado to balance the flavors with creamy smoothness.
- Lightly toast sesame seeds to enhance their nutty flavor significantly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cucumber cups
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: California roll, cucumber snack, avocado crab bite, healthy appetizer, no-cook snack, sushi-inspired snack, gluten free appetizer