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Introduction
If you’re a sushi lover but not a fan of the carbs that come with traditional rice rolls, this Simple Sushi Salad Bowl is about to become your new best friend. Packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients like cucumber, avocado, seaweed, and protein-rich fish or tofu, this bowl gives you all the flavors of your favorite sushi—without the rice. It’s light, satisfying, and totally keto-friendly.
This recipe is especially perfect for those days when you’re craving sushi but don’t want to roll anything or break your carb budget. It’s fresh, fast, and full of the umami goodness we all love from Japanese cuisine, but with a low-carb twist that makes it suitable for keto and bariatric lifestyles alike.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a lot to love about this simple, satisfying sushi bowl:
- 🥑 Fresh and flavorful: Every bite is loaded with crunch, creaminess, and umami.
- 🕒 No rolling, no fuss: Just chop, mix, and serve.
- 🧠 Brain and heart-healthy fats: Thanks to avocado and omega-rich fish.
- 🥗 Light but filling: Ideal for a quick lunch or a dinner that won’t weigh you down.
- 🌿 Naturally gluten-free & keto-friendly.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun lunch idea, this sushi salad will have you skipping takeout and feeling great about it.
My Personal Experience
The first time I made this sushi salad bowl, I was honestly just trying to use up some leftover smoked salmon and avocado. I wasn’t expecting it to taste this good. But once everything came together—with the sesame oil, tamari, crunchy cucumber, and nori—I felt like I had recreated my favorite sushi roll in salad form.
Since then, it’s been my go-to lunch when I want something clean and refreshing. And the best part? It takes barely 10 minutes to whip up. No rice cooking, no rolling, no mess—just pure sushi goodness in a bowl.
Required Equipment
🥣 Mixing Bowl
A medium bowl is perfect for tossing all the ingredients together without anything spilling out.
🔪 Sharp Knife
To neatly dice your cucumber, avocado, and fish/tofu into bite-sized pieces. The sharper, the better for clean cuts—especially with delicate ingredients like avocado.
🥄 Measuring Spoons
Helpful for getting just the right amount of sesame oil, tamari, and vinegar.
🍽 Salad Bowl for Serving
A wide, shallow bowl works beautifully to display all the colorful components.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- ½ cup cucumber, diced – Adds crunch and freshness.
Substitute: Zucchini (if you’re out of cucumbers). - ½ avocado, cubed – Creamy, rich in healthy fats, and keeps you full.
Substitute: Mashed avocado or guacamole (just watch the carbs in pre-made). - ¼ cup shredded nori or crumbled seaweed snack – Brings that classic sushi flavor.
Optional: Skip it if you’re not a seaweed fan. - 3 oz cooked shrimp or smoked salmon – Protein-packed and sushi-inspired.
Substitute: Tuna, crab meat, tofu, or even leftover grilled chicken. - 1 tsp sesame oil – Adds depth and that signature Asian flair.
Substitute: Olive oil, but it won’t have the same nutty flavor. - 1 tsp tamari or coconut aminos – Brings a savory umami punch.
Substitute: Soy sauce (if not gluten-sensitive). - 1 tsp rice vinegar – Brightens up the whole bowl.
Substitute: Apple cider vinegar (slightly tangier). - Optional sesame seeds or green onions – For extra crunch and flavor.
How to Make Simple Sushi Salad Bowl
- Prep your ingredients.
Dice cucumber and avocado. Crumble seaweed or slice nori into strips. Choose your protein (cooked shrimp, salmon, tofu, etc.). - Make the dressing.
In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, tamari, and vinegar. - Assemble the bowl.
Add cucumber, avocado, seaweed, and protein into a medium mixing bowl. - Toss gently.
Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss just enough to combine—be gentle so you don’t mash the avocado. - Serve and enjoy.
Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onion, if desired.
Tips for This Recipe
- 🥑 Use slightly firm avocado so it doesn’t turn into mush when mixed.
- ❄️ Chill the bowl before serving for a refreshing touch.
- 🧂 Taste before adding more tamari—some proteins like smoked salmon can be salty.
- 🐟 Use sashimi-grade fish if you want to make it raw.
- 🔄 Great for meal prep—just keep the dressing and avocado separate until serving.
Optional Additions
- Pickled ginger – Just a slice or two for that classic sushi kick.
- Wasabi mayo drizzle – Mix mayo with a touch of wasabi and lemon juice.
- Cauliflower rice base – For those wanting a fuller “poke bowl” experience.
- Sliced radish or shredded carrot – For a pop of color and crunch (in moderation for keto).
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a keto miso soup or bone broth.
- Serve with cucumber soda or iced green tea.
- Perfect as a light dinner, picnic bowl, or lunch meal prep.
- Make a DIY sushi salad bar for guests with various toppings and proteins.
Storage Recommendations
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Keep dressing separate until ready to eat to avoid soggy veggies.
- Avocado will brown, so add it fresh if prepping ahead.
- Do not freeze—the fresh ingredients won’t hold up well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use tofu, edamame, or even chopped boiled eggs as your protein.
Can I use canned tuna or salmon?
Absolutely. Just drain it well and flake it before adding.
Is seaweed keto?
Yes! Seaweed is very low in carbs and adds tons of flavor and minerals.
What if I don’t like fish?
Use chicken, steak, or even tempeh. It’s your bowl—make it yours!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 15g
- Total Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 2g
Simple Sushi Salad Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup cucumber diced
- ½ avocado cubed
- ¼ cup crumbled seaweed
- 3 oz cooked shrimp or salmon
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp tamari
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
Instructions
- Dice cucumber and avocado. Crumble seaweed. Prepare protein.
- Whisk sesame oil, tamari, and vinegar to make dressing.
- In a bowl, add cucumber, avocado, seaweed, and protein.
- Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Serve topped with sesame seeds or green onion, if desired.
I’m so excited to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 😊 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily keto inspiration, tasty recipes, and all the support you need to crush your goals. Want to make keto cooking even easier? Get a Keto Instant Pot Recipes Book filled with quick, delicious, and low-carb meals—perfect for busy days! Grab your copy today! 🚀
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