Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

California Roll in a Bowl

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 large bowls or 3–4 small servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired, American Fusion
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

California Roll in a Bowl is a quick, no-fuss way to enjoy all the vibrant flavors of your favorite sushi roll—without any of the rolling. This deconstructed sushi bowl features creamy avocado, sweet and savory crab, crisp veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, all topped with spicy mayo and sesame seeds. It’s fresh, customizable, and perfect for a light lunch or easy weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked sushi rice or jasmine rice
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup imitation crab meat (or real crab, chopped)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • ½ cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup carrot, julienned (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Soy sauce or tamari, to taste
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 12 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • Optional toppings: pickled ginger, shredded nori, wasabi, seaweed strips

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm cooked rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir gently and allow to cool slightly.

  2. Prep the toppings: dice avocado, chop cucumber and crab, julienne carrots, and slice green onions.

  3. Mix mayonnaise with sriracha in a small bowl to create spicy mayo. Adjust heat to preference.

  4. Divide rice into serving bowls.

  5. Top with crab, avocado, cucumber, carrot, and green onion.

  6. Drizzle with spicy mayo and soy sauce or tamari.

  7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and any optional toppings like shredded nori or pickled ginger.

  8. Serve immediately and enjoy cold or at room temperature.


Notes

  • Use leftover rice for an even quicker prep—just warm slightly and re-season.

  • For a low-carb version, swap rice for cauliflower rice.

  • To make it vegan, use marinated tofu and vegan mayo.

  • Keep avocado separate when storing to avoid browning.

  • Add edamame, red cabbage, or switch crab for shrimp or smoked salmon for variety.

  • Store in fridge up to 2 days. Do not reheat.