Cucumber Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls

The cool crunch of cucumber paired with a rich, herbed cream cheese center creates a refreshing bite that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. These cucumber cream cheese sushi rolls offer a perfect no-cook solution for hot days, quick appetizers, or healthy lunchbox additions.

This delightful dish skips the traditional nori and rice found in sushi, opting instead for thinly sliced cucumber as a crisp and light alternative. Filled with vibrant vegetables and creamy goodness, these rolls are not only visually appealing but also customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re avoiding carbs, following a gluten-free lifestyle, or simply seeking something fun and flavorful, these sushi bites are a crowd-pleaser.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 large cucumbers
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup sprouts (alfalfa or radish)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions:

Wash cucumbers thoroughly and trim the ends.
Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, slice the cucumbers lengthwise into thin ribbons.
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, rice vinegar, dill, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Lay out a cucumber ribbon and spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on it.
Place a small amount of julienned carrot, bell pepper, avocado, and sprouts on one end of the ribbon.
Roll tightly into a sushi-like spiral. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Repeat with remaining cucumber ribbons.
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 95 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Cucumber Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Favorite

Sushi is a culinary art that has evolved far beyond its traditional Japanese roots. From classic maki and nigiri to trendy sushi burritos and deconstructed bowls, there’s a version of sushi for everyone, even those who shy away from raw fish or seaweed. If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and no-cook appetizer, Cucumber Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls are a game-changer. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also gluten-free, low-carb, and absolutely delicious. These rolls have all the visual appeal and satisfying flavors of sushi, without the need for rice or nori.

Perfect for summer parties, light lunches, brunches, or even meal prep, these cucumber rolls check all the boxes: healthy, fast, and Instagram-worthy. This dish swaps out traditional seaweed wraps for thinly sliced cucumber ribbons, providing a refreshing crunch in every bite. The filling is a luscious mixture of cream cheese, fresh herbs, and colorful veggies, which offers a creamy contrast to the crisp cucumber exterior.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this dish, especially if you’re looking for creative ways to eat more vegetables or reduce your carb intake. Here are just a few benefits of making cucumber cream cheese sushi rolls:

No cooking required: A completely heat-free recipe, ideal for hot summer days or dorm room snacks.
Low-carb and gluten-free: Perfect for people following keto, paleo, or gluten-sensitive diets.
Customizable: You can fill them with your favorite vegetables, fresh herbs, or even add proteins like smoked salmon or shredded chicken.
Great presentation: These sushi rolls look beautiful on a plate, making them an impressive appetizer for gatherings.
Fun to make: Rolling the cucumber slices is oddly therapeutic and makes for a fun family or date-night cooking activity.

A Modern Take on Sushi

Traditional sushi dates back to ancient Japan, where it started as a method of preserving fish in fermented rice. Over centuries, sushi transformed into the elegant dish we know today. However, not everyone is a fan of raw fish or the seaweed wrap known as nori. That’s where this creative reinterpretation comes in.

Using cucumber instead of nori and omitting the rice makes this version significantly lighter and more hydrating. It also opens the door for experimentation with different fillings. You’ll find this version especially appealing if you want the experience of eating sushi without committing to seafood or the intricacies of making perfect sushi rice.

Ingredient Spotlight

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in its overall flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Here’s a closer look at what makes them so special:

Cucumber

Cucumber serves as the wrap for the sushi and brings a refreshing crunch and hydrating quality to the dish. It’s low in calories and high in water content, making it an excellent base for light snacks. Opt for large, straight cucumbers like English cucumbers, which are easier to peel into long ribbons.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese adds a luscious, tangy contrast to the fresh vegetables. Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest result, or go for a whipped or plant-based version if you prefer. Mixing it with herbs and seasoning creates a rich, flavorful filling.

Fresh Dill

Dill pairs beautifully with cream cheese and cucumber, creating a flavor profile that’s reminiscent of Scandinavian or Eastern European appetizers. It lends a fragrant, slightly citrusy note to the filling.

Vegetables

Julienned carrots, red bell pepper, and avocado add texture, sweetness, and color to the rolls. They’re not only tasty but packed with vitamins and healthy fats. Carrots bring beta carotene, bell peppers deliver Vitamin C, and avocado offers monounsaturated fats and fiber.

Sprouts

Sprouts such as alfalfa or radish give the rolls a delicate crunch and slightly peppery flavor. They’re also rich in antioxidants, chlorophyll, and enzymes that aid digestion.

Rice Vinegar and Garlic Powder

These pantry staples enhance the flavor of the cream cheese mixture. Rice vinegar adds a tangy brightness, while garlic powder brings a mellow depth.

Tips for Success

Slice cucumbers evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for consistent, thin slices that are easy to roll.
Pat cucumber dry: After slicing, blot with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This prevents the rolls from becoming soggy.
Room temperature cream cheese: Let your cream cheese soften before mixing; this makes it easier to spread.
Toothpicks or garnish picks: These are helpful for keeping the rolls intact, especially if transporting or serving on a platter.
Prep in advance: You can prepare the cucumber ribbons and filling ahead of time, then assemble just before serving for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Cucumber Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls can be served as:

Appetizers: Arrange them on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant starter.
Lunchbox treats: Pack them with fruit, crackers, and a protein for a refreshing midday meal.
Party platters: Serve them alongside dips like hummus, tzatziki, or even a soy-ginger dipping sauce.
Brunch bites: Include them on a brunch spread with smoked salmon, bagels, and mimosas.

For added flair, consider garnishing with microgreens, edible flowers, or a dash of chili flakes.

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is not only visually appealing but also quite nutrient-dense. Here’s what makes it a smart choice:

Low in calories: One serving typically contains under 100 calories.
Rich in vitamins: Thanks to the fresh vegetables, you’ll get a good dose of vitamins A, C, and E.
Healthy fats: Avocados and cream cheese contribute satisfying fats to keep you full longer.
Fiber-packed: The vegetables and sprouts help support digestion and satiety.

If you’re watching your sodium or fat intake, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs.

Variations & Add-Ons

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some ideas for customizing it to your liking:

Add protein: Include a strip of smoked salmon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even canned tuna.
Go spicy: Add thin slices of jalapeño or a touch of sriracha to the cream cheese.
Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and load up on veggies like cucumber, radish, and greens.
Use herbs creatively: Swap dill for chives, cilantro, or basil for a different flavor profile.
Asian twist: Add shredded nori, a drop of sesame oil, or soy sauce into the cream cheese for an umami-packed bite.

Who Will Enjoy This Dish?

This dish is an excellent option for:

Busy professionals needing a quick and healthy meal.
Parents who want a veggie-packed snack for their kids.
Health-conscious eaters looking for a satisfying, low-carb dish.
Vegans and vegetarians (with a simple substitution of vegan cream cheese).
Anyone hosting a gathering who wants to serve something fresh and unique.

Conclusion

Cucumber Cream Cheese Sushi Rolls are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With minimal ingredients, zero cooking, and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their snack game or impress guests with a light, elegant appetizer.

Whether you’re throwing a garden party, prepping a quick lunch, or looking for a new way to eat your veggies, these sushi rolls check all the boxes. They’re creamy, crunchy, fresh, and flavorful and you won’t miss the rice or seaweed one bit.

So, grab your cucumbers and a few fresh veggies, and roll your way to a refreshing and nourishing treat that’s sure to be a new favorite!

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