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–+ servings
Kani Salad

Savor the Crunch: Quick Kani Salad Recipe You’ll Adore

Kani Salad is a light Japanese dish made with imitation crab and fresh cucumbers, perfect for warm days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 Japanese cucumber Japanese cucumber Adds freshness and crunch; substitute with ½ an English cucumber if needed.
  • 3 ounces Imitation crab Provides the main flavor and protein; can be replaced with real crab meat for a more delicate taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Shallot Adds a mild onion flavor; regular onion can be used if shallots are unavailable.
For the Dressing
  • 2.5 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise The key ingredient for creaminess and flavor, offering a unique taste; regular mayonnaise works in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Rice vinegar Provides acidity to balance the creaminess; apple cider vinegar is a suitable alternative.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Soy sauce Enhances umami flavor; use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper Adds subtle heat and flavor to the salad.

Equipment

  • mandolin
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Knife

Method
 

How to Make Kani Salad
  1. Thinly slice the Japanese cucumber using a mandolin or a sharp knife, ensuring even, delicate pieces.
  2. Finely chop the imitation crab into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced cucumber, chopped crab, minced shallot, Kewpie mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and ground black pepper.
  4. Toss all the ingredients together gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, then chill the salad for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor enhancement. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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