Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls for a Festive Feast

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

The moment I took my first bite of these Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure. Picture this: a vibrant burst of smoky Andouille sausage entwined with tender collard greens, all hugged by seasoned rice and a colorful medley of bell peppers. This fusion dish perfectly captures the spirit of Mardi Gras, offering a lively celebration of flavors from both Southern and Japanese cuisines. Ideal for lively gatherings or a fun family dinner, these sushi rolls are more than just a feast for the palate; they re a visual delight that will brighten up any table. Let me guide you through this exciting recipe that blends traditions and tantalizes your taste buds, bringing a unique twist to your home-cooked meals. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let s dive in!

Why are Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls amazing?

Unforgettable Flavor Fusion: This recipe uniquely marries the smoky essence of Andouille sausage with fresh collard greens, creating an explosion of taste.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and nori catch the eye, making your dish a showstopper at any gathering.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you ll find that crafting these rolls is both fun and accessible, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels!
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the ingredients, whether using turkey sausage or different greens to match your preference.
Perfect for Celebrations: Designed to resonate with the joyful spirit of Mardi Gras, these sushi rolls are great for parties or cozy family dinners, making them universally appealing!
For a delightful dipping experience, consider serving with spicy remoulade sauce for a zesty kick!

Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls Ingredients

For the Sushi Rolls

• Collard Greens Adds nutrition and a vibrant touch; fresh spinach or kale can be used as a substitute.
• Andouille Sausage Provides the signature smoky flavor of Southern cuisine; consider swapping with spicy sausage or a vegetarian option.
• White Rice Forms the sushi base; always use sushi rice for the best texture and flavor.
• Bell Peppers (red, yellow, green) Contributes color and crunch; feel free to experiment with cucumbers for added freshness.
• Creole Seasoning Infuses the dish with genuine Southern zest; adjust to your spice preference for a kick.
• Nori Sheets Keeps the rolls intact; rice paper can work as an alternative if needed.
• Soy Sauce Perfect for dipping and enhancing flavors; use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Embrace the festive flair of Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls with this colorful and flavorful ingredient list!

How to Make Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls

1. Prep the Collard Greens: Blanch the collard greens in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant green, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

2. Cook the Andouille Sausage: Sauté the sliced Andouille sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of sushi rice several times until the water runs clear. Cook according to the package instructions, adding a pinch of salt, then let it cool to room temperature.

4. Assemble Rolls: On a bamboo sushi mat, lay out a nori sheet shiny side down. Spread an even layer of the cooled rice, leaving a 1-inch border at the top. Layer the collard greens, Andouille sausage, and sliced bell peppers along the bottom edge.

5. Roll Up: Starting from the bottom, tightly roll the sushi away from you, using the mat to help you shape a tight cylinder. Moisten the top edge of the nori with a little water to seal the roll. Slice into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife and serve with soy sauce.

Optional: Serve with spicy remoulade sauce for an extra kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls are perfect for meal prep! To save time, you can blanch the collard greens and cook the Andouille sausage up to 3 days in advance. Store the cooled collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant color, and keep the sausage in a separate container. Prepare the sushi rice up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it after it cools. When you re ready to enjoy your sushi rolls, simply assemble them as directed and roll tightly, then slice into pieces. You ll be delighted to find that they re just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls?

These vibrant sushi rolls deserve companions that enhance their festive flavors and lively colors, making every bite a celebration.

• Spicy Remoulade Sauce: A zesty dip that adds a creamy tang, reminiscent of Southern cookouts. It perfectly complements the sushi s smoky richness.

• Crispy Coleslaw: This refreshing dish adds crunch and brightness, balancing the savory rolls with its tangy flavor. A great palate cleanser for a more flavorful experience.

• Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: The sweet, buttery corn is a delightful contrast to the savory sushi, bringing a classic Southern touch to your meal.

• Pickled Vegetables: Serve a variety of pickled veggies for a palate-cleansing burst of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.

• Watermelon Salad: A cool, refreshing salad made with feta and mint, showcasing summer s sweetness and offering a juicy counter to the Andouille sausage s spice.

• Mango Iced Tea: This sweetened, fruity drink pairs beautifully with the rolls, adding a refreshing note that is just right for washing down the vibrant flavors.

• Key Lime Pie: Finish off with a slice of this tangy dessert for a delightful contrast, rounding out your meal with both sweetness and a touch of tartness.

• Beer or Light Wine: A crisp lager or a light white wine complements the savory elements while enhancing the overall dining experience with a touch of celebratory spirit.

Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls Variations

Feel free to personalize these sushi rolls to your taste and dietary needs with these exciting twists!

• Vegetarian: Swap Andouille sausage for a plant-based sausage or marinated tofu for a delicious, meat-free version. It s a perfect way to enjoy the rich flavors without the meat!

• Heat Boost: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the filling for that extra kick of spice. It s all about making your taste buds dance!

• Flavorful Greens: Substitute collard greens with baby spinach or Swiss chard for a milder flavor and vibrant color. This keeps the dish fresh and visually appealing while adding a whole new dimension.

• Citrus Burst: Incorporate slices of fresh avocado or a sprinkle of lime juice inside the rolls. The creaminess and brightness make every bite unforgettable!

• Savory Sauce: Instead of soy sauce, try a sweet chili sauce for dipping. It adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the rolls and elevates the dish.

• Crunchy Element: Fold in some shredded carrots or cucumber sticks for an added crunch and freshness. This little twist brings texture and vibrancy to your sushi rolls.

• Nori Substitute: Use rice paper instead of nori sheets for a gluten-free and lighter option. It creates a unique, chewy experience while maintaining that sushi flair.

• Herbed Rice: Stir some fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, into the rice before rolling for an amazing burst of freshness. It s a simple way to elevate the flavors, bringing a garden delight right into your sushi!

How to Store and Freeze Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls

• Room Temperature: Sushi rolls are best enjoyed fresh; however, if left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

• Fridge: Store any leftover Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness.

• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unassembled ingredients separately. Sushi rolls will lose texture and quality when frozen, so it s best to enjoy them fresh.

• Reheating: If you need to reheat any leftovers, do so gently in the microwave at a low power setting. This helps to retain some moisture and prevent the rolls from becoming tough.

Expert Tips for Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls

• Prepping Greens: Blanch collard greens just until tender to maintain their vibrant color and prevent overcooking. A quick ice bath will keep them fresh!

• Rice Texture: Use sushi rice for optimal stickiness and texture. Make sure to cool the rice completely before assembling to avoid soggy rolls.

• Slicing Mastery: Use a sharp knife for slicing the rolls; this ensures clean edges and keeps all the delicious fillings intact, enhancing the presentation.

• Seasoning Balance: Adjust Creole seasoning according to your spice preference. This allows you to control the heat level and cater to everyone s taste in your Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls.

• Rolling Technique: When rolling, use gentle pressure to keep the sushi tight but avoid squishing the filling out. A bamboo mat can help with this process.

Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of collard greens should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh collard greens are ideal, and you ll want to choose bright green leaves without dark spots. If you re unable to find collard greens, fresh spinach or kale can be excellent substitutes, both providing nutritional benefits while maintaining the dish s flavor.

How should I store leftover sushi rolls?
Leftover Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls should be stored in an airtight container and can last in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To keep them fresh, wrap each roll in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze the sushi rolls?
While it s not recommended to freeze assembled sushi rolls due to potential texture loss, you can freeze the unassembled ingredients separately. To do this, ensure that the sautéed Andouille sausage and collard greens are cooled completely before placing them in freezer bags. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembling your sushi rolls.

What if my sushi rolls are too soggy?
Very! If you find that your rolls are too soggy, double-check that your rice is cooled completely before assembly. Additionally, ensure that the collard greens are adequately blanched and not overcooked. The rice should have a slightly sticky texture but should never be watery. If your rolls do end up soggy, try adjusting the ingredients with firmer vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers that can add crunch.

Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! The Southern-Style Mardi Gras Sushi Rolls can be made allergy-friendly by swapping out certain ingredients. For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, you can use vegetarian sausage for a meatless alternative suitable for plant-based diets. Always check for any potential allergens in your ingredients, especially with seasonings and pre-packaged products.