These Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a refreshing, healthy snack for Back to School days. It is Filled with quinoa, fresh veggies, and a light drizzle of soy sauce, they’re perfect for an easy-to-make snack or a quick lunch. The crunch from the cucumbers combined with the creamy avocado and the tangy soy sauce creates a flavor-packed bite in every roll.
Perfect for those looking to eat clean, stay healthy, or simply enjoy a quick, light meal, these rolls are a great way to enjoy sushi without the hassle of rice or seaweed. Plus, you can easily customize the fillings with whatever veggies or protein you prefer. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick after-school snack, these Cucumber Sushi Rolls are always a hit!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 large cucumbers
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1 cup cooked quinoa
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1/2 cup shredded carrots
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1/4 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup avocado, sliced
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2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
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Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon, creating hollow “boats.”
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In a bowl, combine the quinoa, shredded carrots, cilantro, red bell pepper, and avocado.
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Drizzle the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Spoon the quinoa mixture into the cucumber boats, filling them generously.
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Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch (optional).
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Slice the cucumber rolls into bite-sized pieces and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Cucumber Sushi Rolls: A Fun and Healthy Back-to-School Snack
As the back-to-school season approaches, many parents and caregivers are looking for quick, healthy, and delicious snack options to keep kids energized and focused throughout the day. Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a fantastic choice! Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also packed with fresh ingredients that are perfect for nourishing growing bodies and minds. These light, crunchy, and colorful rolls can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making them an ideal choice for families with different preferences.
In this article, we will explore why Cucumber Sushi Rolls are such an excellent snack for back-to-school time, as well as how to make the most of this versatile dish. Whether you’re looking for something quick to throw together for a busy morning or a healthy after-school treat, these rolls will not disappoint. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be on your list for easy, nutritious meals and snacks for the school year.
A Refreshing Twist on Traditional Sushi
Cucumber Sushi Rolls offer a refreshing and light alternative to traditional sushi, making them a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy sushi without the heavy rice or seaweed that typically accompanies it. By using cucumbers as the base, you can keep the dish light and low-carb, yet still full of flavor and texture. The crispness of the cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the fillings such as quinoa, fresh vegetables, and avocado deliver a satisfying combination of flavors and nutrients.
Sushi rolls are often thought of as an indulgent or time-consuming dish to prepare. However, Cucumber Sushi Rolls simplify the process, making it a fun and easy activity for kids to get involved in as well. With just a few simple ingredients and no complicated preparation, you can create a dish that feels just as exciting as traditional sushi but without the need for specialty ingredients or advanced cooking skills.
Perfect for Busy Families
The back-to-school season often means a hectic schedule filled with early mornings, after-school activities, and tight deadlines. Preparing meals can sometimes feel like a daunting task amidst the chaos. Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a great option because they are incredibly quick to make. You can prepare the rolls in as little as 15 minutes, making them the perfect addition to your meal prep routine or a last-minute snack for your child before they head out the door for school.
Additionally, these rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack, lunch, or even a light dinner. For busy families, Cucumber Sushi Rolls can be a lifesaver when you need something both nutritious and satisfying. You can even prepare them the night before and store them in the refrigerator for a ready-to-eat meal or snack the next day.
A Nutritious, Plant-Based Option
Cucumber Sushi Rolls are packed with plant-based ingredients that offer a wealth of health benefits. The base of the rolls is cucumber, which is hydrating and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight-conscious individuals or those looking for a light, refreshing snack. Cucumber also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to bone health, heart health, and overall well-being.
The addition of quinoa provides a complete protein source, making these rolls an excellent option for vegetarians, vegans, and those looking to reduce their meat intake. Quinoa is also high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system healthy and provides long-lasting energy throughout the day. The avocado adds healthy fats that support brain function and heart health, while the other vegetables, such as carrots and red bell peppers, provide a boost of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals to promote overall health and wellness.
By using fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients, Cucumber Sushi Rolls offer a balanced combination of macronutrients and micronutrients, making them a wholesome and satisfying snack that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Customizable to Suit Different Tastes
One of the best things about Cucumber Sushi Rolls is their versatility. The fillings can easily be adapted to suit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences. For instance, you can swap out the quinoa for brown rice, millet, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. You can also add or replace vegetables depending on what’s in season or what your family enjoys. Other great options include shredded zucchini, spinach, or even pickled radishes.
If your child prefers something with a little more protein, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or even fish like smoked salmon or tuna. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, simply use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. The possibilities are endless, and this flexibility makes it easy to personalize the recipe for picky eaters or those with food sensitivities.
You can also make the rolls more flavorful by adding extra seasonings like sesame oil, ginger, or a drizzle of spicy sriracha for a kick. For a more traditional sushi flavor, a dash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of nori (seaweed) flakes can add an authentic touch. These creative variations allow you to customize the dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual after-school snack or a fun family dinner.
Fun for Kids to Make
Involving children in the kitchen can be a great way to teach them valuable cooking skills and introduce them to new, healthy foods. Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a fantastic recipe to get kids involved, as they can easily help with assembling the rolls and adding their favorite fillings. This hands-on activity is not only fun but also helps children develop a sense of ownership over their meals, which can encourage them to try new ingredients and be more adventurous with their food choices.
The simplicity of the recipe also makes it suitable for kids of various ages. Younger children can assist with washing and prepping vegetables, while older children can help with the rolling and cutting. Additionally, making these rolls together can be a bonding experience for the family, making mealtime more enjoyable.
Make It a Meal Prep Essential
For parents looking to streamline their busy week, Cucumber Sushi Rolls are a great addition to your meal prep routine. You can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The cucumbers may lose a bit of their crispness over time, but they will still taste delicious and refreshing. This makes them an excellent option for packing in lunchboxes or for a quick snack after school.
You can prepare a large batch of filling, then customize the rolls each day by adding different vegetables or protein sources. This not only saves time but ensures that your family enjoys a variety of flavors throughout the week.
Conclusion:
Cucumber Sushi Rolls are the ultimate healthy, easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for back-to-school season. Whether you’re looking for a fun lunchbox idea, a nutritious snack, or a light dinner, these rolls offer a refreshing, plant-based alternative to traditional sushi. They are quick to prepare, customizable, and a great way to get kids excited about eating healthy. With their blend of nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavors, Cucumber Sushi Rolls are sure to become a family favorite that will make the back-to-school routine a little bit easier and a lot more delicious.
So why not give this simple and healthy snack a try? You’ll be amazed at how much joy and satisfaction a few fresh ingredients can bring, and your kids will love them too. Happy cooking!