Save A vibrant, bite-sized sushi roll featuring colorful vegetables and festive flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and parties.
These sushi rolls first made an appearance at our winter potluck and quickly became the star snack. Rolling them was fun and brought everyone around the kitchen counter for laughter and taste tests.
Ingredients
- Sushi Rice: 1 cup sushi rice, 1 1/4 cups water, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt
- Fillings: 1/2 small red bell pepper, julienned, 1/2 small yellow bell pepper, julienned, 1/2 small cucumber, julienned, 1 small carrot, peeled and julienned, 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced, 2 tbsp pickled ginger, chopped, 2 tbsp cream cheese or vegan cream cheese (optional)
- Assembly: 6 sheets nori (seaweed), 1 tbsp black sesame seeds, 1 tbsp white sesame seeds, soy sauce or tamari (for serving), wasabi and extra pickled ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Sushi Rice:
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice with water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes. Let stand off heat, covered, for another 10 minutes.
- Season and Cool Rice:
- Whisk rice vinegar, sugar, and salt together. Gently fold into the warm rice. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
- Assemble Rolls:
- Place nori, shiny side down, on a bamboo mat. With damp hands, spread a thin layer of rice over nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.
- Add Sesame Seeds:
- Sprinkle a mixture of black and white sesame seeds over the rice.
- Add Fillings:
- Arrange bell peppers, cucumber, carrot, avocado, pickled ginger, and cream cheese (if using) across the bottom third of the rice.
- Roll and Slice:
- Roll sushi tightly using the bamboo mat, sealing the edge with a little water. Slice each roll into 4 pieces with a sharp, damp knife.
- Serve:
- Arrange rolls on a festive platter. Serve with soy sauce or tamari, wasabi, and extra pickled ginger.
Save Making sushi with my family has become a holiday tradition. Everyone gets to choose their favorite fillings and roll their own, making snack time special and interactive.
Required Tools
Bamboo sushi rolling mat, sharp knife, small saucepan, and mixing bowls make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Allergen Information
Contains soy (soy sauce, sometimes in cream cheese), sesame, and dairy if using regular cream cheese. Gluten-free if using tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free cream cheese. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (4 pieces): Calories 130, Total Fat 3 g, Carbohydrates 24 g, Protein 2 g.
Save These holiday sushi rolls always disappear fast. Share them with loved ones and watch everyone smile as they reach for another bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What vegetables work best for these sushi rolls?
Julienned red and yellow bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, and avocado provide a vibrant, crisp filling. Feel free to add blanched asparagus or roasted red pepper for extra color and taste.
- → Can the rolls be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and chill the rolls a few hours before serving. Slice just before guests arrive to keep everything fresh and the presentation beautiful.
- → How can I make this dish vegan and gluten-free?
Use vegan cream cheese or omit it, and select tamari instead of soy sauce. Always ensure nori and any added sauces are gluten-free.
- → What tools are essential for rolling sushi?
A bamboo sushi rolling mat and a sharp, damp knife are essential for forming tight, clean rolls. A small saucepan is needed to cook the rice.
- → How do I keep the sushi rice from sticking?
Dampen your hands with water before handling the rice, and use a damp knife when slicing the rolls to prevent sticking.
- → What garnishes add extra holiday flair?
Finely chopped chives, microgreens, or extra sesame seeds add visual appeal and subtle flavor. Try pairing with sparkling wine for a festive feel.