Sushi Handrolls Without Rice Recipe
Crisp nori cones filled with smoked salmon, avocado, cucumber and scallions for fresh sushi handrolls without rice.
Contains: Fish
Smoked salmon is the main allergen in this recipe. Check the label on flavored or seasoned smoked salmon if you need to avoid additional allergens or gluten.
WHY IT WORKS
Why This Recipe Works
01
No Rice Needed
Avocado, cucumber and smoked salmon give each handroll enough body and contrast that the filling still feels complete without sushi rice.
02
Crisp and Creamy
Cool cucumber keeps the filling crisp while ripe avocado adds a soft, creamy texture against the nori and salmon.
03
Easy Seafood Filling
Using ready-to-eat smoked salmon avoids raw-fish preparation while keeping the handrolls fresh, savory and seafood-forward.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Equipment
THE RECIPE
Ingredients & Method
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My Notes
Ingredients
Method
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Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut each nori sheet in half crosswise, making 6 rectangles. Keep the nori covered while you arrange the fillings.
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Divide the smoked salmon, avocado, cucumber and scallions into 6 roughly equal portions so the handrolls are evenly filled.
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Place one piece of nori shiny side down with a short edge nearest you. Arrange one portion of salmon, avocado, cucumber and scallion diagonally across the left half, leaving the corners exposed.
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Fold the lower-left corner of the nori up and over the filling, then continue rolling toward the opposite side to form a cone. Dab a little water along the final edge of nori and press gently to seal.
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Repeat with the remaining nori and fillings. Serve the handrolls immediately while the nori is still crisp.
COOKING GUIDANCE
Practical Cooking Notes
Make Ahead
Prepare the cucumber, scallions and smoked salmon up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate them separately. Slice the avocado and assemble the handrolls shortly before serving so the avocado stays fresh and the nori stays crisp.
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Dietary options
Make This Recipe Work for You
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For allergies, intolerances or strict dietary requirements, check the labels of the specific products you use. These swaps do not certify a recipe or ingredient as allergen-free.
Recipe Notes
Ingredient Notes
Use plain, ready-to-eat smoked salmon rather than a strongly flavored variety so it does not overpower the avocado and cucumber. Keep the nori sealed until you are ready to assemble; it softens quickly once exposed to moisture.
Useful Substitutions
Cooked, chilled shrimp can replace the smoked salmon in the same weight. Thin strips of bell pepper can replace some of the cucumber if you want extra crunch, but keep the filling fairly narrow so the nori cones close easily.
INGREDIENT QUALITY
Quality Note
Fresh, crisp nori makes the biggest texture difference. Keep the sheets sealed until the fillings are ready and roll only what you plan to serve right away.
SPEND LESS
Cost-Saving Tip
Smoked salmon trimmings or offcuts can be a good-value option when available because the salmon is cut into strips for the handrolls anyway.
COOKING TIPS
Tips
Keep the Nori Dry
Prepare every filling before opening the nori package, then assemble the handrolls just before serving so the seaweed stays crisp.
Cut Long, Thin Fillings
Matchstick cucumber, narrow avocado slices and strips of salmon are easier to roll into a cone than short or bulky pieces.
Do Not Overfill
A small bundle of filling on one side of the nori leaves enough room to fold the sheet around itself without splitting.
Seal with Water
A light swipe of water along the final nori edge is enough to help the cone hold its shape; too much water makes it chewy.
MAKE IT LAST
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Prep Ahead
Cut the cucumber and scallions and portion the smoked salmon up to 1 day ahead. Refrigerate them separately in covered containers and slice the avocado shortly before serving.
Storing Assembled Handrolls
These are best eaten immediately. If necessary, refrigerate assembled handrolls in a covered container for up to 2 hours, but expect the nori to soften.
ESTIMATED PER SERVING
Nutrition
2 handrolls
Nutrition information is an estimate. Where shown, % Daily Value uses standard US Daily Values for adults and children aged 4+; actual values vary with ingredient brands, exact quantities and portion size.
QUESTIONS
Sushi Handrolls Without Rice FAQs
Can you make sushi handrolls without rice?
Yes. Nori can be rolled around seafood, avocado and crisp vegetables without rice. The key is to use fillings with enough texture and body that the cone still feels substantial.
What kind of salmon should I use for these handrolls?
This recipe uses plain, ready-to-eat smoked salmon. It gives the handrolls a sushi-style seafood filling without requiring raw-fish preparation.
Can I make these handrolls ahead of time?
Prepare the fillings ahead, but assemble the handrolls close to serving time. Moist fillings soften nori fairly quickly, so freshly rolled handrolls have the best texture.
Can I use cooked shrimp instead of smoked salmon?
Yes. Use the same weight of cooked, chilled shrimp and cut larger shrimp lengthwise so the pieces fit neatly inside the nori cones.
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