These Cucumber Sushi Bites are fresh and fun! Made with crunchy cucumber and filled with tasty veggies, they make a great snack or light meal.
They’re like little sushi rolls without the fuss. I love making them for a quick lunch—I even let my kids help. Who can resist that crunchy cucumber? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
English Cucumber: This type of cucumber is perfect as it’s long and has fewer seeds. If you can’t find one, you can use Persian cucumbers instead, which are also crunchy and smaller.
Sushi Rice: If sushi rice is hard to find, short-grain rice can work as a substitute, but the texture might not be as sticky. Avoid long-grain rice, as it won’t hold together as well.
Fresh Sushi-Grade Salmon: If you’re not comfortable using raw fish, consider using cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even avocado for a vegetarian version. It keeps the freshness while being safe and tasty!
Rice Vinegar: You can swap rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar in a pinch, though the flavor will change slightly. Just add a tiny pinch more sugar to balance the acidity.
How Do You Make Perfect Sushi Rice?
Making the perfect sushi rice is key to this recipe! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Combine rinsed rice with water in a saucepan; bring it to a boil before lowering the heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes—don’t lift the lid!
- After cooking, let it rest for 10 minutes with the lid on for the best texture.
- Mix the vinegar, sugar, and salt in a separate bowl until dissolved, then gently fold into the rice once it’s cooled to room temperature.
Taking your time with each step will ensure a deliciously sticky and flavorful sushi rice that holds up beautifully in your cucumber bites!
How to Make Cucumber Sushi Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large English cucumber
- 1 cup sushi rice (or short-grain rice)
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz fresh sushi-grade salmon, diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp black and white sesame seeds, toasted
- Soy sauce or tamari, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the rice and preparing the ingredients, and then you’ll assemble everything in just a few minutes. It’s best to enjoy these bites fresh right after making them!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sushi Rice:
Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and ensures the rice cooks perfectly. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 1 1/4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Rice:
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat but keep it covered for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. After the rice has finished resting, gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
3. Cut the Cucumber:
While the rice is cooling, wash your cucumber and slice it into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick rounds. Make sure they’re thick enough to hold the toppings! Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out a little bit from the center of each slice to create a small indentation. Be careful not to scoop all the way through!
4. Assemble the Sushi Bites:
Take a spoonful of the seasoned sushi rice and fill the indentation in each cucumber slice. Once all the slices are filled, add a small piece of diced salmon on top of the rice for that sushi flavor!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over each bite to add flavor and a nice crunch. Arrange the Cucumber Sushi Bites on a serving plate.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately with soy sauce or tamari for dipping if desired. Enjoy these fresh, crunchy bites that make the perfect snack or appetizer!
These Cucumber Sushi Bites are a fun and healthy option that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Enjoy your sushi experience without the fuss!
Can I Use Other Types of Fish?
Absolutely! If you’re not comfortable with raw salmon, you can use cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The key is to maintain a similar size for the toppings to ensure a delightful bite!
How Can I Store Leftover Cucumber Sushi Bites?
It’s best to enjoy these bites fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The cucumber may become soggy, so consider storing the filling separately and assembling right before eating.
Can I Prepare the Rice in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sushi rice ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before using it to fill your cucumber slices.
What if I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just remember to add a tiny pinch of sugar to balance the tartness in flavor.
