These cucumber sushi bites are a crunchy and fresh twist on regular sushi! Made with thin slices of cucumber, rice, and tasty fillings, they’re easy to grab and munch. Yum!
I love making these for a quick snack or party treat. They look fancy but are super simple to put together. Just roll, slice, and enjoy, and watch your friends be impressed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
English Cucumber: This cucumber is perfect for this recipe because of its crispness and minimal seeds. If you can’t find it, try a Persian cucumber, which is another great option. Just make sure to slice them thicker for the hollow cups!
Sushi-Grade Salmon or Imitation Crab: Fresh sushi-grade fish adds wonderful flavor, but if you’re not comfortable with raw fish, imitation crab is a tasty and safe option. You can also fill these bites with diced avocado or cooked shrimp for a different spin!
Mayonnaise: This is optional but adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. It gives a similar texture with a bit of tang.
Soy Sauce: This is key for flavor, but if you need a low-sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, which is also gluten-free.
How Do You Make Perfect Cucumber Cups?
Creating the cucumber cups is easy but requires a gentle touch. The goal is to scoop out just enough to hold the filling without breaking through!
- Start with a firm cucumber and slice it into 1 to 1.5 inch thick rounds.
- Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the center while leaving the base intact for support.
- Go slow and steady—this helps prevent any cracks or holes!
Once your cucumber cups are ready, it’s time for the filling! It’s simple, fresh, and a great appetizer for any gathering. Enjoy!
How to Make Cucumber Sushi Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large English cucumber
- 6 ounces sushi-grade salmon or imitation crab (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for mixing with seafood)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (white and black mix)
- Optional: a pinch of wasabi or sriracha for a little heat
Time Required:
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and perfect for snacks, appetizers, or impressing guests at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
Start by washing the cucumber well to remove any dirt. Cut the cucumber into thick rounds, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Think of them as little cups waiting to be filled!
2. Hollow Out the Cups:
Using a small spoon or melon baller, gently scoop out the center of each cucumber round. Create a hollow space, but remember to leave the bottom intact so they hold together nicely. This creates a little cup for your filling!
3. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine your finely chopped sushi-grade salmon (or imitation crab) with mayonnaise (if using), soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to make sure all the flavors blend well together.
4. Fill the Cucumber Cups:
Spoon the seafood mixture evenly into each hollowed-out cucumber cup. Make sure you fill them nicely, but don’t overfill them to avoid spilling!
5. Top Them Off:
Sprinkle the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds generously over the top of each filled cucumber bite. It adds a lovely crunch and color!
6. Add Extra Flavor:
Drizzle a little soy sauce around the base of the cucumber bites on the serving plate. This will enhance the flavor and give it a gourmet touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These cucumber sushi bites are best served fresh! Enjoy them as a crunchy snack or appetizer. For a little zing, provide wasabi or sriracha on the side for dipping. Your guests will love them!
Enjoy these light, refreshing cucumber sushi bites that combine fresh cucumber crunch with savory sushi flavors! They’re perfect for any occasion!
Can I Substitute the Salmon or Imitation Crab?
Absolutely! If you’re not keen on either, you can use diced avocado, cooked shrimp, or even a mix of veggies like bell peppers and carrots for a vegetarian version. Just keep the flavors in mind!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, be aware that the cucumber may become soggy over time due to the filling, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make These Cucumber Sushi Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Hollow out the cucumbers right before serving to maintain their crunchiness!
What Can I Serve with Cucumber Sushi Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with a side of soy sauce for dipping. For a fuller meal, consider serving them alongside a light salad, miso soup, or some vegetable spring rolls. Enjoy your culinary creation!
