Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls

Name: Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 sheets nori (seaweed); 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cucumber, julienned; Soy sauce, for serving; Pickled ginger, for serving

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I love making Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls because they're refreshing, healthy, and so easy to prepare at home. With just a few ingredients, I can create these simple yet delicious rolls that are perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. The combination of creamy avocado and crisp cucumber wrapped in rice and nori is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Whether I'm sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them myself, these sushi rolls are always a hit that leave me wanting more.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-13T17:06:19.089Z

When I first attempted making sushi at home, I was intimidated by the thought of rolling it perfectly. However, I quickly realized that the Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls are such a simple introduction to the art of sushi. They require no cooking, and the vibrant colors and textures make them a feast for both the eyes and the palate. I appreciate how the light flavor of cucumber pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado, resulting in a perfect balance.

After a few trial rolls, I discovered that using a bamboo mat made the rolling process much easier and more consistent. A tip I find effective is to keep your hands wet while handling the rice; this prevents it from sticking too much and makes the entire process smoother. Now, making these sushi rolls is not just an enjoyable activity but also a delightful way to share a slice of Japanese cuisine with friends and family.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing and light, perfect for warm days
Creamy avocado and crunchy cucumber are a delightful contrast
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Perfecting the Rice

Getting the sushi rice right is crucial for the perfect Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls. After rinsing the rice, the goal is to achieve the ideal texture—sticky enough to hold together but not mushy. When you bring the rice and water to a boil, use medium-high heat, then promptly reduce to low for a gentle simmer. This controlled cooking ensures the rice absorbs the water evenly, resulting in tender grains. After resting for 10 minutes post-cooking, the rice will be perfectly fluffy, ready to be seasoned.

The seasoning mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt should be added while the rice is slightly warm. This temperature allows the flavors to meld without cooking the rice further. Gently folding the seasoning in helps to keep the rice's character intact; if you stir too vigorously, you'll end up with a paste rather than distinct grains. This is a common pitfall, so take care to handle the rice with a light touch.

Rolling Techniques

When rolling the sushi, the key is to keep the nori and rice evenly pressed but not overly tight—a common mistake is rolling too tightly, which can cause the filling to spill out. Using a bamboo mat aids in achieving the right pressure as you roll. Start from the edge closest to you and roll away while gently squeezing the mat. This technique not only shapes the roll but also maintains the integrity of the ingredients inside, ensuring every bite is a balanced mix of avocado and cucumber.

If you encounter issues with the sushi falling apart, consider using a bit more rice to help bind the roll. Alternatively, dab your fingers in water to prevent sticking and offer better control when handling the rice and nori. A sharp knife is essential for slicing the roll cleanly—wetting the knife with water between cuts will prevent the sushi from tearing. Aim for 6-8 pieces to maintain a manageable size for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with various accompaniments. While soy sauce is a traditional choice, try adding a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor. Pairing with pickled ginger is not only traditional but also energizes the palate between bites, heightening the experience of the fresh ingredients.

If you're preparing these rolls ahead of time, it's best to assemble them no more than a couple of hours in advance; this avoids sogginess. Store them in a sealed container with parchment paper to absorb excess moisture, keeping the nori crisp. These rolls also make great lunchbox additions or picnic treats, providing a refreshing option that stands out. For a fun twist, consider adding julienned carrots or bell peppers for additional crunch and color.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls:

Ingredients

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 sheets nori (seaweed)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cucumber, julienned
Soy sauce, for serving
Pickled ginger, for serving

Once you have everything ready, let's roll!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Cucumber Avocado Sushi Rolls:

Cook the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice and water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 10 minutes.

Season the Rice

In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice, making sure not to mash the grains. Allow the rice to cool slightly.

Prepare the Nori and Fill

Place a sheet of nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo sushi mat. Wet your hands to prevent sticking and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Lay a few slices of avocado and cucumber in a line across the rice.

Roll the Sushi

Using the bamboo mat, lift the edge closest to you and start rolling it away from you, pressing gently to form a tight roll. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 6-8 pieces.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the sushi rolls on a plate and serve with soy sauce and pickled ginger for dipping.

Enjoy your fresh and delicious sushi rolls!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding sesame seeds on top of your rolls before slicing. You can also substitute the ingredients based on your preferences, such as adding carrots or bell peppers.

Ingredient Alternatives

While avocado and cucumber are the stars of this recipe, feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. For a protein boost, consider adding sliced tofu, crab meat, or even cooked shrimp. The creamy texture of avocado pairs well with these proteins, enhancing the overall dish. If you're looking for a brighter flavor, try incorporating mango slices for a tropical twist.

For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional soy sauce with tamari, which is made without wheat. Additionally, if rice vinegar is unavailable, apple cider vinegar can serve as a good substitute, providing a similar tang with a hint of sweetness. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your preferred level of acidity.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover sushi rolls, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to consume them fresh since the texture can deteriorate, particularly the nori, which becomes chewy when stored. For optimal freshness, separate any soy sauce or dipping components if possible, keeping the rolls in their own container.

When reheating sushi, a conventional method isn't appropriate; instead, enjoy it cold to maintain the integrity of the dish. If you truly prefer warmer sushi, you can lightly pan-sear the outside in a non-stick pan for just a few minutes. This will warm the filling while providing a unique texture to the nori, creating new taste experiences with each roll.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will be different, and it may require different cooking times.

→ Is it necessary to use a bamboo mat?

While a bamboo mat helps in rolling tightly and evenly, you can also roll by hand if you don't have one.

→ How long can I store the sushi rolls?

It's best to eat sushi rolls fresh; however, wrapped tightly in plastic, they can last in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like crab sticks, carrots, or bell peppers for variety.