California roll

American  

noun

1. a sushi roll containing avocado, cucumber, and crabmeat, or imitation crabmeat, wrapped in vinegared rice and seaweed.

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Etymology

Origin of California roll

First recorded in 1975–80; so called because it probably originated in Los Angeles, CA

Example Sentences

Other variations he has made, including riffs on a California roll and a smoked salmon bagel, have also gone viral.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

And perhaps a bit daunting, whether it’s your first time trying a California roll or you’ve decided to put yourself in the sushi chef’s expertly trained hands for omakase.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 3, 2023

In cases such as the French dip and the California roll, the L.A. inventor is disputed.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 2, 2022

Reminiscent of the wasabi-tinged soy sauce you might have with a California roll, this all-purpose salad dressing includes tart rice vinegar and nutty sesame oil.

From New York Times • Jul. 12, 2021

She puts miso soup in matching blue bowls and puts a California roll and a sweet potato tempura roll on a plate for me.

From "Sparrow" by Sarah Moon