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+ servings

California Roll Bowls

These California Roll Bowls are a fresh, deconstructed take on the classic sushi roll. Packed with all the flavors and textures you love—without the need for rolling—they’re quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for a light lunch, meal prep, or a no-fuss sushi night at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Japanese-Inspired
Servings 2 bowls
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup sushi rice or short-grain white rice (cooked and cooled)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup imitation crab (or real crab meat) (chopped)
  • 1/2 avocado avocado (sliced or diced)
  • 1/2 cucumber cucumber (diced or julienned)
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 sheet nori (cut into thin strips or crushed, optional)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for spicy mayo)
  • 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste, for spicy mayo)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice or rice vinegar (for spicy mayo)
  • optional soy sauce or tamari (for serving)
  • optional pickled ginger or wasabi (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, transfer it to a bowl while still warm. Stir in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until fully incorporated. Let the seasoned rice cool slightly.
  • In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice (or rice vinegar) until smooth. Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference. Set aside.
  • Dice the cucumber, slice the avocado, shred the carrots, and chop or flake the imitation crab. Cut the nori sheet into thin strips or crush it into small pieces for added crunch.
  • Divide the seasoned sushi rice evenly between two bowls. Layer the chopped crab, cucumber, avocado, shredded carrots, and green onions on top. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and nori strips.
  • Drizzle the spicy mayo over the bowls and serve with soy sauce or tamari on the side. For an extra touch of authenticity, add pickled ginger or wasabi. Garnish with additional sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy with chopsticks or a fork!

Notes

For a low-carb option, swap sushi rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage. Add pickled ginger or a splash of soy sauce for extra sushi vibes. These bowls are great for meal prep—just keep the avocado and mayo separate until ready to eat.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlsCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8g
Keyword California Roll Bowls, Deconstructed Sushi, Healthy Lunch, Meal Prep, Sushi-Inspired Bowl
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