Surimi Salad is a light, creamy, and refreshing dish that brings together tender imitation crab with crisp vegetables in a smooth, savory dressing. It’s quick to make, beautifully colorful, and perfect as a chilled lunch, picnic dish, or elegant side for gatherings.
⏱️ Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15–30 minutes (recommended)
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
🧾 Ingredients
Salad
- 250 g surimi (imitation crab sticks), shredded or sliced
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned (seeds removed)
- ½ cup sweet corn, drained (optional)
- 2 tbsp spring onions, finely sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Creamy Dressing
- 3 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise (or regular mayo)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ tsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp toasted sesame oil
- Salt & white pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Ingredients
Shred the surimi gently by hand. Pat cucumber dry to remove excess moisture.
2️⃣ Make Dressing
In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3️⃣ Combine
Add surimi, cucumber, corn, and spring onions to the dressing. Toss gently until evenly coated.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve
Refrigerate 15–30 minutes for best flavor. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
🧮 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Protein | ~7 g |
| Fat | ~12 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugar | ~3 g |
| Sodium | ~520 mg |
Values vary by brand of surimi and mayonnaise.
🌈 Why You’ll Love It
- Fast & fuss-free (no cooking)
- Cool and refreshing—ideal for warm days
- Versatile as a side, sandwich filling, or sushi bowl topping
❓ Q&A (Helpful Tips)
Q1: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Best within 24 hours. Stir gently before serving.
Q2: How do I make it lighter?
Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt or use light mayo.
Q3: Is surimi raw?
No. Surimi is fully cooked and ready to eat.
Q4: What can I add for crunch?
Shredded carrots, sliced radish, or crisp lettuce.
Q5: Is it spicy?
Not by default. Add sriracha or chili oil to taste.
🌟 Variations
- Spicy Kani Salad: Add 1–2 tsp sriracha to the dressing
- Avocado Kani Salad: Fold in diced ripe avocado just before serving
- Low-Carb Version: Skip corn; add more cucumber or lettuce