Kani Salad

Fresh Kani salad with shredded crab sticks, julienned mango, cucumber, and carrot tossed in a creamy spicy dressing. Quick, healthy, and flavorful Japanese-inspired dish.

Ingredients

Dressing

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp sriracha or hot sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 5 oz (250 g) imitation crab sticks, shredded into thin strips

Salad

• 1 carrot, julienned (3” long, about 1 cup)
• 1 cucumber, julienned (3” long, about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 ripe mango, julienned (3” long)
• 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

1. In a bowl or small jug, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.

Assemble the Salad

2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded crab sticks, julienned cucumber, carrot, and mango.
3. Pour the dressing over the crab and vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Serve

4. Transfer the salad to a shallow bowl or serving plate.
5. Sprinkle panko and sesame seeds on top, and drizzle with extra dressing if desired. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and refreshing Japanese-inspired salad.
• Balanced flavors with creamy, spicy, and sweet notes.
• Crunchy texture from panko and fresh vegetables.
• Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.

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Tips

• Shred crab sticks by hand for the best texture.
• Julienne vegetables evenly for a uniform look and taste.
• Toss gently to avoid breaking delicate ingredients.
• Chill briefly before serving for a cooler, crisper salad.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Use cooked shrimp or real crab instead of imitation crab.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, radish, or avocado slices.
• Dressing: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Spices: Adjust sriracha to taste for milder or spicier salad.

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FAQs

Can this salad be made ahead?
Yes, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately and toss together just before serving.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the crab and add extra vegetables like avocado or bell peppers.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?
Julienne and rinse vegetables, then pat dry and keep chilled until assembly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer for Japanese-themed meals.
• Pair with sushi rolls or rice bowls for a complete lunch.
• Use as a side salad with grilled fish or chicken.
• Garnish with additional sesame seeds or a drizzle of soy sauce for extra flavor.