Mediterranean Diet Cucumber Maki

Elevate your sushi game with this vibrant Mediterranean Diet Cucumber Maki recipe—a fusion of Japanese rolling techniques and bold Mediterranean flavors. This fresh and healthy dish features perfectly seasoned sushi rice rolled with crisp cucumber, roasted red pepper, briny kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all brightened with a zesty hint of lemon and fresh dill. Wrapped in nutrient-rich nori sheets, these rolls deliver a delightful balance of textures and flavors in every bite. Perfect for light lunches, appetizers, or party snacks, this recipe is a unique twist on traditional sushi, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, these cucumber maki rolls are a must-try for sushi lovers seeking a fresh, globally inspired twist!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 1.5 cups water
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 large cucumbers
• 1 red bell pepper
• 0.25 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
• 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 4 seaweed nori sheets
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Wash the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 2

While the rice is cooling, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved. Gently stir this mixture into the cooked rice and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3

Peel the cucumbers and cut them lengthwise in half. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds to create hollow centers. Pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 4

Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips.

Step 5

In a small bowl, toss together the chopped kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh dill. Add the lemon juice and olive oil for additional flavor.

Step 6

Lay one nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.

Step 7

Arrange a cucumber half at the bottom edge of the rice-covered nori, then place some red pepper strips and a spoonful of the olive-feta mixture into the cucumber’s hollow center.

Step 8

Using the sushi mat, carefully roll the nori tightly from the bottom edge to the top, sealing the edge with water.

Step 9

Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients to make 4 rolls.

Step 10

Slice each roll into 6 pieces using a sharp knife dipped in water to prevent sticking.

Step 11

Serve the cucumber maki rolls immediately or refrigerate them until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1496.3 grams (1496.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	912

Total Fat 41.50g	53%
Saturated Fat 12.60g	63%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 50mg	17%
Sodium 2893mg	126%
Total Carbohydrate 114.30g	42%
Dietary Fiber 12.60g	45%
Total Sugars 28.20g
Protein 24.10g	48%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 502mg	39%
Iron 6mg	36%
Potassium 1542mg	33%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.3%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 49.3%