If you love California rolls but don’t want to fuss with rolling sushi at home, this California Sushi Bowl is the perfect solution. It has everything you love—tender rice, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, sweet crab (or imitation crab), and a drizzle of flavorful sauce—all served in a bowl you can assemble in minutes.
It’s colorful, fresh, and fun to eat, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that feels special without requiring special tools.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because everyone can build their own bowl just the way they like it. My kids love the sweet crab and creamy avocado, while I enjoy adding a spicy mayo drizzle on top for extra flavor.
It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep—just cook the rice ahead of time, chop the veggies, and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sushi bowl captures the creamy, fresh, and slightly sweet flavors of a California roll but is so much easier to make.
You don’t need sushi-making skills or special equipment—just layer everything in a bowl, drizzle with sauce, and enjoy. It’s also endlessly customizable. Swap out proteins, add more veggies, or drizzle with your favorite sauces.
It’s naturally gluten-free if you use tamari, and you can easily make it dairy-free. Plus, it’s a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats all in one bowl.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded imitation crab (or real crab)
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup shelled edamame
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (plain or mixed with sriracha)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Pro Tips
- Season the rice with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for authentic sushi flavor.
- Use a mix of mayo and sriracha for a creamy, slightly spicy drizzle.
- Keep avocado separate if prepping ahead to prevent browning.
- Add nori strips for that true California roll flavor.
- Serve toppings family-style so everyone can customize their bowl.
Tools You’ll Need
- Saucepan or rice cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein swaps: Use cooked shrimp, smoked salmon, or baked tofu.
- Low-carb version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
- Extra toppings: Add mango, pickled ginger, radish, or seaweed salad.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Make it spicy: Mix sriracha into mayo or top with sliced jalapeños.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
- Chop veggies and shred crab up to a day in advance.
- Make the sauce and store it in a jar in the fridge.
- Keep all components separate and assemble right before eating for best texture.
How to Make California Sushi Bowls
1. Cook and Season the Rice
Cook rice according to package instructions. While warm, stir in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let cool slightly.
2. Prep the Protein and Veggies
Shred imitation crab (or real crab) and slice avocado, cucumber, and other veggies.
3. Make the Sauce
Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a quick spicy mayo. Add a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
4. Assemble the Bowls
Add rice to each bowl. Arrange shredded crab, cucumber, carrots, edamame, and avocado on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with soy sauce and spicy mayo. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the top.
Leftovers and Storage
California sushi bowls taste best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep avocado separate to prevent browning, and add sauces right before serving.
Rice may dry out slightly in the fridge—add a splash of water and microwave briefly if you prefer it warm.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of rice and veggies changes after thawing.
Nutrition & Benefits
This California Sushi Bowl is a balanced meal that provides protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The rice gives you energy, crab or imitation crab adds lean protein, and avocado offers heart-healthy fats.
Veggies like cucumber, carrots, and edamame bring vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Sesame seeds and green onions add flavor and nutrients without extra calories.
Light, Fresh, and So Easy to Make
This California Sushi Bowl is a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy sushi at home—no rolling required. It’s quick, customizable, and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a fun family dinner where everyone builds their own bowl.