Spicy Kani Salad (Printable Version)

Refreshing Japanese-style salad with imitation crab, crisp vegetables, and creamy spicy dressing ready in 15 minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Salad Components

01 - 7 oz imitation crab sticks (kani), shredded into thin strips
02 - 1 medium cucumber, julienned into matchsticks
03 - 1 medium carrot, julienned into matchsticks
04 - 2 tablespoons sweet corn kernels (optional)
05 - 1 tablespoon green onions, finely sliced
06 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish

→ Spicy Dressing

07 - 4 tablespoons Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie brand recommended)
08 - 1 tablespoon Sriracha chili sauce or other hot chili sauce
09 - 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
10 - 1 teaspoon soy sauce
11 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
12 - ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Shred the imitation crab sticks lengthwise into thin, uniform strips. Set aside in the large mixing bowl.
02 - Julienne the cucumber and carrot into matchstick-sized pieces using a sharp knife and cutting board for even, precise cuts.
03 - Add the prepared cucumber, carrot, corn kernels (if using), and sliced green onions to the bowl with the shredded crab. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
04 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Japanese mayonnaise, Sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and toasted sesame oil until completely smooth and emulsified.
05 - Pour the spicy dressing over the salad mixture. Using a gentle folding motion, toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
06 - Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top as garnish. Serve immediately while crisp, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving chilled.

# Tips from hearthlykitchen:

01 -
  • It comes together in literally fifteen minutes but tastes like restaurant quality
  • The spicy creamy dressing is addictive and you'll want to put it on everything
  • Perfect for make ahead lunches since it actually tastes better after chilling
02 -
  • Don't overdress the salad because the vegetables will release water and make it soggy
  • Imitation crab already contains salt so taste the dressing before adding more soy sauce
  • The salad needs at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator for flavors to meld properly
03 -
  • Squeeze excess water from the cucumber after julienning if they seem especially watery
  • Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes to wake up their nutty flavor

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