Cucumber Sushi Rolls: the Recipe for a Super Easy and Tasty No-Bake Appetizer

The Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a delicious and easy to prepare cold appetizer, a sort of fake sushi, which you can also serve for an aperitif or a brunch with friends. To make it you will have to cut the cucumbers into thin slices, arrange them next to each other and add spreadable cheese and smoked salmon, before rolling everything up and leaving it to rest in the fridge. After resting, the roll will be cut into rounds, ready to enjoy with soy sauce or as you like. For the preparation use organic cucumbers, because they will be used with their skin.

What are Cucumbers Sushi Rolls?

Cucumber sushi rolls, also known as "kappa maki," are a popular type of sushi that features thinly sliced cucumbers wrapped in sushi rice and seaweed (nori). This simple yet refreshing sushi option is often favored by those who prefer vegetarian choices or a lighter, cleaner taste as a complement to more complex sushi offerings. The cucumber provides a crisp contrast to the soft texture of the rice, making it a beloved staple in sushi cuisine.

These Cucumbers Sushi Rolls we propose to you today are part of "fake sushi" which refers to dishes that mimic traditional sushi but deviate significantly in terms of ingredients and preparation. This can include anything from sushi rolls that use alternative grains instead of sushi rice, to creative adaptations that feature non-traditional fillings such as fruits, cured meats, or other ingredients not commonly found in authentic Japanese sushi. These variations cater to diverse palates and dietary preferences, expanding the concept of sushi to a wider audience while maintaining the aesthetic and form of the original.

Tips and Variations

– When slicing the cucumber with a peeler or mandolin, aim for consistent thickness to ensure the rolls are even and hold together well.

– Ensure the roll is tightly wrapped in cling film and let it chill thoroughly in the fridge to help it set properly, making slicing easier and maintaining the shape of the rolls.

– Use a sharp, wet knife to slice the rolls. Wetting the knife helps prevent the cheese and other fillings from sticking, resulting in cleaner cuts.

– To add a touch of elegance, sprinkle a few sesame seeds on the plate or over the rolls just before serving.

– Swap the plain spreadable cheese for a herb-infused variety or mix in some fresh chopped herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley for added flavor.

– For a vegan variant, use a plant-based cream cheese and replace the salmon with avocado or smoked carrot strips which mimic the texture and smokiness of salmon.

– Include thinly sliced red bell peppers or julienned carrots inside the rolls for an extra crunch and a pop of color.

– Introduce a thin layer of wasabi paste or sriracha mixed with the spreadable cheese for a spicy kick.

– Instead of salmon, try using cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even thinly sliced cooked chicken for different flavors and textures.

– For an added umami flavor and a more authentic sushi appearance, include a strip of nori (seaweed) inside the roll along with the other fillings.

– Toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the rolls to enhance their nutty flavor.

– Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as soy sauce, a light wasabi cream, or a ginger-infused soy reduction to complement the flavors in the sushi.

What Type Of Cucumber is Best to Use for These Sushi Rolls?

The best type of cucumber to use would be the English cucumber, also known as seedless or hothouse cucumber. English cucumbers are ideal for several reasons. For starters, they have thinner skins compared to other varieties, which means they do not need to be peeled. The thin skin also contributes to a more pleasant texture in the sushi rolls. They contain fewer seeds, which makes them less watery and more suitable for slicing into thin, consistent strips that hold up well when rolled. English cucumbers have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that doesn't overpower the other ingredients like the spreadable cheese and salmon. Their long, straight shape and consistent diameter make English cucumbers perfect for creating uniform strips that are ideal for rolling.

When preparing the cucumber for sushi rolls, ensure it is fresh and firm to make peeling and slicing easier. Washing the cucumber thoroughly is important since the skin is left on, which also adds a nice color contrast to the rolls. This type of cucumber can be found in most grocery stores, typically wrapped in plastic to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Can I Add Rice to This Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely add rice to the cucumber sushi rolls: adding sushi rice would transform these rolls into a more traditional sushi roll, offering a heartier dish with a classic sushi texture and flavor. Prepare the rice seasoning it with a mix of rice vinegar, sugar and salt and then allow it to cool to room temperature before adding it to the roll. Rice has to be put as the first ingredient of the filling.

More Sushi Recipes You Might Love

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Sushi Cake

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How to Store Cucumbers Sushi Rolls

Cucumber Sushi Rolls are best if enjoyed right after they're served. Any leftovers can be stored inside of an airtight container in the fridge for 1 day. Freezing is not recommended.

Find out how to prepare Cucumbers Sushi Rolls by following our step-by-step recipe and advice.

How to Prepare Cucumbers Sushi Rolls

Cut the cucumber on one side. Use a potato peeler or mandolin to make cucumber strips that are quite thin and soft.

Place the slices next to each other on food film and use kitchen paper to dry them properly, and get rid of the excess water.

Add the spreadable cheese and, using a spoon, spread it all over the surface. Then, add the smoked salmon.

Roll it up, helping yourself with the cling film, then let the entire roll sit in the fridge for at least an hour so that the various ingredients can set.

Once the setting time is up, all you'll have to do is unwrap the roll and slice it into many tiny rolls and place them on a plate. Sprinkle them with sesame seeds.

Serve the rolls and accompany them with soy sauce. Enjoy!