Keto Sushi Rolls (No Rice!)

If you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply trying to enjoy your favorite foods in a healthier way, then keto sushi is a must-try.

This recipe swaps traditional sticky rice for flavorful cauliflower rice while keeping everything you love about sushi—creamy fillings, savory seafood, and crisp veggies—completely intact.

It’s a fantastic way to satisfy cravings without breaking your carb goals, and it makes a beautiful, restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Keto sushi brings together textures and flavors that feel indulgent but are still low in carbs. It’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for lunch, dinner, or even party appetizers.

I like pairing mine with a warm bowl of keto egg drop soup, some crunchy cauliflower bites, or a refreshing side of vegetarian keto salad to round out the meal.

What is Keto Sushi?

Traditional sushi, which originated in Japan, is typically made with vinegared rice, raw or cooked seafood, and vegetables, all wrapped in nori seaweed.

While it’s flavorful and elegant, it’s also quite high in carbohydrates due to the rice.

Keto sushi takes a fresh approach by replacing high-carb white rice with cauliflower rice, a low-carb alternative that still provides a similar texture.

While it might seem like a modern food trend, cauliflower rice has long been a favorite among those who eat grain-free or follow a ketogenic lifestyle.

Keto sushi keeps the spirit of sushi alive—simple, elegant, and customizable—while allowing you to stay on track with your goals.

Ingredients to Make this Keto Sushi

Making keto sushi at home may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, it becomes completely doable—even fun! Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Cauliflower rice – This is your rice substitute. It has a mild flavor and can absorb seasonings, making it ideal for sushi rolls. When lightly cooked and thickened, it gives that sticky texture you want.

Xanthan gum – A little goes a long way here. It thickens the cauliflower rice and helps it hold together when rolling your sushi.

Sushi-grade salmon – Fresh, raw fish that is safe for consumption. It adds protein, healthy fats, and that classic sushi taste.

Cream cheese – This gives your roll a creamy texture and slight tang that balances beautifully with the fresh veggies and fish.

Avocado – Rich in healthy fats and ultra-smooth, avocado adds a buttery bite that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Cucumber – Crisp and refreshing, cucumber offers a cool contrast to the creamier fillings. Removing the seeds keeps it from being watery.

Nori sheets – These dried seaweed sheets are the wrapping for your sushi. They add a salty, umami flavor and hold everything together.

Green onion – Thinly sliced on top, green onion adds color, a mild sharpness, and extra freshness.

Toasted sesame seeds – A finishing touch that brings nutty flavor and visual appeal.

Salt and pepper – For seasoning the cauliflower rice and balancing flavors throughout the roll.

Bamboo mat – This rolling mat helps form a tight, even sushi roll. If you don’t have one, you can improvise with parchment paper.

Sharp knife – Essential for slicing your roll cleanly without squishing it.

How to Make Low-Carb Sushi Rolls at Home

Making keto sushi rolls is easier than it looks, especially when you break it down step-by-step. Don’t worry if your first roll isn’t perfect—each one gets better with practice!

1. Prepare the cauliflower rice
   Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the cauliflower rice with a bit of salt and pepper until it’s tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the xanthan gum and toasted sesame seeds, then remove it from the heat. Let the rice mixture cool completely—it’ll stick better that way.
   
2. Lay out the nori
   Place a nori sheet shiny-side down on your bamboo rolling mat. Position the nori so the longer edge is closest to you.
   
3. Spread the cream cheese
   Using a spoon or offset spatula, spread a thin layer of cream cheese across the nori, leaving about 1 cm of space on the top edge so it can seal when rolled.
   
4. Add the cauliflower rice
   Spoon some cooled cauliflower rice over the cream cheese and gently press it into an even layer. You want it thin, not too bulky.
   
5. Layer the fillings
   Along the bottom edge, add a line of sliced cucumber, salmon, and avocado. Keep the fillings in a straight, tight row for even rolling.
   
6. Roll it up
   Using the bamboo mat, start rolling from the bottom. Tuck the fillings in as you go and roll slowly, applying gentle but firm pressure. Peel the mat back as you go to keep it from getting rolled into the sushi.
   
7. Slice the roll
   Use a very sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch pieces. Clean the blade with a damp cloth between each cut to keep things neat.
   
8. Garnish and serve
   Top each piece with green onion slices and an extra sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately, or chill for 15 minutes for a firmer texture.

Tips for Making this Keto Sushi Roll Recipe

• Always let your cauliflower rice cool before assembling to prevent the nori from getting soggy.
  
• Use plastic wrap between the nori and the bamboo mat if the rice sticks too much.
  
• A slightly damp knife helps make cleaner cuts.
  
• If you don’t have sushi-grade salmon, substitute with smoked salmon or cooked shrimp.
  
• Store leftovers in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic, and eat within 24 hours for the best texture and freshness.
  
• For extra flavor, serve with coconut aminos or low-carb soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables or proteins in my keto sushi?

Absolutely! Keto sushi is highly customizable. You can try thin strips of bell pepper, carrots (if within your carb limit), cooked shrimp, or even canned tuna mixed with mayo for a spicy tuna vibe. Just make sure your fillings aren’t too watery.

Is cauliflower rice supposed to be sticky?

Not naturally—but by cooking it briefly and adding xanthan gum, it becomes sticky enough to hold your roll together. Make sure not to overcook it or add too much moisture, or it will turn mushy.

Can I make this keto sushi roll ahead of time?

You can prepare the cauliflower rice and slice the vegetables in advance. However, for the best taste and texture, I recommend assembling the rolls just before serving. If needed, you can chill a completed roll for 10–15 minutes to help it firm up before slicing.

Have you tried keto sushi? Then make sure to rate and review this recipe! I’d love to know how your rolls turned out or if you added your own twist.

Feel free to get creative and tag your photos on Pinterest or share them with friends looking for a delicious, low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.