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Fresh Cucumber Sushi Rolls with Cream Cheese and Salmon

fresh cucumber sushi rolls - featured image

A quick and easy sushi roll recipe using fresh cucumber as a wrap, filled with creamy cream cheese and savory salmon. Perfect for beginners and ideal for light lunches, potlucks, or appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large English cucumber (firm, fresh, and straight)
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) fresh salmon fillet, sushi-grade if possible, thinly sliced
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • Soy sauce, for dipping (low-sodium optional)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill or chives, finely chopped (optional)
  • A few drops lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the cucumber. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice it lengthwise into thin, even strips about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick and 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) long. Scoop out large seeds if necessary.
  2. Optionally, lightly brush or spray the cucumber strips with rice vinegar and let them rest on paper towels for 5 minutes to reduce moisture.
  3. In a small bowl, soften the cream cheese by stirring gently. Mix in chopped dill or chives and a few drops of lemon juice if using.
  4. Thinly slice the salmon fillet into strips about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick and 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) long.
  5. Lay one cucumber strip flat on a cutting board. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture evenly along the length, leaving a small border on the edges. Place a slice of salmon on top.
  6. Carefully roll the cucumber strip from one end to the other, keeping the filling inside. Repeat with remaining strips.
  7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the rolls and arrange them on a serving plate. Serve immediately with soy sauce for dipping.

Notes

Use English cucumbers for best results due to thinner skin and fewer seeds. Soften cream cheese before spreading to avoid tearing cucumber strips. Work quickly to keep ingredients fresh. Store assembled rolls tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; best served fresh. Substitute smoked salmon or cooked shrimp if preferred. Add sriracha for a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber sushi rolls, cream cheese sushi, salmon sushi, easy sushi recipe, no rice sushi, gluten-free sushi, low-carb sushi