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Easy 10-Minute Restaurant-Style Spicy Kani Salad

A close-up of creamy, orange-tinted kani salad mixed with sliced cucumbers served in a white bowl.
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Make this creamy, crunchy imitation crab salad at home in just 10 minutes. This recipe delivers the flavor you expect from your favorite sushi spot, perfect as a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces imitation crab sticks (kani/surimi), shredded
  • 1 medium cucumber, seeded and finely diced
  • 1/4 cup Kewpie mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded carrot or mango for color/sweetness

Instructions

  1. Shred the imitation crab sticks into thin strands using your fingers or two forks. Place the shredded crab in a medium bowl.
  2. Finely dice the seeded cucumber. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl with the crab.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Kewpie mayonnaise, Sriracha, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper until the spicy mayo dressing is smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing over the crab and cucumber mixture.
  5. Gently fold all ingredients together until the crab and cucumber are evenly coated with the spicy dressing. Do not overmix.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Add optional ingredients now if you are using them.
  7. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for the flavors to combine. This salad is best served cold.

Notes

  • For the best restaurant-style flavor, use authentic Kewpie mayonnaise; its richness makes a difference in the dressing.
  • If you prefer a less spicy salad, start with 1 teaspoon of Sriracha and increase it slowly.
  • This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it excellent for meal prep.
  • You can substitute the cucumber with shredded cabbage for a crunchier texture, similar to some sushi bar versions.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/easy-10-minute-kani-salad-recipe/