Fresh Spring Rolls

There’s something magical about Fresh Spring Rolls. I remember the first time I tried them at a little Vietnamese restaurant tucked away in my neighborhood. As I took my first bite, the combination of crunchy vegetables, tender shrimp, and that creamy peanut sauce took me on a flavor adventure. Ever since, I’ve been eager to share this experience with friends and family. Making Fresh Spring Rolls at home is not only fun but incredibly rewarding. You can customize them with your favorite fillings, making each roll a delightful surprise.

One evening, I decided to host a spring roll-making party. Everyone gathered around the table, chopping vegetables, and laughing as they tried to master the art of rolling. The best part? Each person could create their own flavor masterpiece. It was a night filled with delicious food, laughter, and memories that I cherish. So, if you’re ready to join in on the fun, let’s dive into the art of crafting these vibrant and fresh rolls!

Key Ingredients for Fresh Spring Rolls

The ingredients for Fresh Spring Rolls are what truly make this dish shine. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a delightful dipping sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, from the soft texture of the spring roll wrappers to the crunchiness of the red cabbage. Together, they not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the vibrant colors that make this dish visually appealing.

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter: This forms the base of the dipping sauce, adding creaminess and depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: It adds acidity and brightness to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the dipping sauce.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor to the sauce.
• 1 clove garlic: Provides a punch of flavor to the sauce.
• ¼-½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce: For a kick of heat.
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water: To adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
• 1 package spring roll wrappers: These are essential for wrapping your rolls, usually come in packs of 8 to 10.
• 2 ounces rice vermicelli: Provides a chewy texture in the rolls.
• 8 butter lettuce leaves: Soft wraps for the fresh fillings.
• 2 medium mangos: Sweet and juicy, they add a tropical touch.
• 1 large red pepper: Sweet and crunchy strips enhance the texture.
• 1 large carrot: Adds color and crunch when shredded or sliced.
• 1 large English cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, perfect for spring rolls.
• 1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage: Crunchy and colorful, it adds extra crunch.
• 1 pound small cooked shrimp: Optional, but they bring protein and flavor.
• 1 small bunch cilantro: Adds fresh herbal notes.
• 1 small bunch fresh mint: Provides a refreshing burst of flavor.

How to Assemble Fresh Spring Rolls

Assembling Fresh Spring Rolls is a fun and creative process. You’ll love how each step reveals a vibrant and colorful roll. Below, I’ll guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you create beautiful and delicious rolls that are sure to impress. Let’s get started!

1. Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing together ¼ cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, and 1 clove garlic (minced) in a small food processor or blender. If you prefer, you can whisk these ingredients by hand. The goal is to achieve a smooth consistency. If it’s too thick, add 2 to 3 tablespoons water gradually, one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired dipping consistency. Cover and chill the sauce until you’re ready to serve.

2. Next, prepare the rice noodles. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then add 2 ounces rice vermicelli to the boiling water. Turn off the heat and allow the noodles to soak for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Once they’re softened, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Now, it’s time to prepare your work station. Gather all your fillings—the mango, cucumber, carrot, red pepper, cilantro, mint, and shrimp. Fill a shallow dish with an inch of warm water to dampen your spring roll wrappers. Lay a clean, lint-free tea towel on your work surface to keep everything organized.

4. Dampen the wrapper by placing it in the warm water for about 15 to 20 seconds, or until it becomes pliable but still has some structure. Carefully lift it out and lay it flat on the towel.

5. Assemble your spring roll by covering the lower third of the wrapper with a few pieces of butter lettuce. On top, layer a small handful of the rice noodles, a bit of red cabbage, and a few strips of carrot, cucumber, red pepper, and mango. Add a couple of leaves of mint and cilantro for fresh flavor. If you’re using shrimp, place three pieces pink side down just above the other fillings.

6. To roll, take the lower edge of the rice paper and tightly roll it up towards the shrimp, keeping the filling secure. Once you reach the shrimp, fold in the left and right sides of the wrapper. Continue rolling until the spring roll is complete and sealed.

7. Repeat the rolling process with the remaining ingredients. Take your time to get the rolling technique right, and don’t worry if your first few rolls aren’t perfect—they’ll still taste amazing!

8. Finally, cut the spring rolls on a diagonal to make them visually appealing when served. Arrange them on a platter and serve them alongside the chilled dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

When making Fresh Spring Rolls, there are a few tips that can help elevate your dish to perfection. Here are some essential pointers to ensure your rolls are a hit:

• Storage: To keep the rolls fresh, wrap them individually in a damp paper towel, followed by plastic wrap or parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy these rolls fresh, if you need to freeze them, wrap them tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
• Pairing: Serve your Fresh Spring Rolls with a variety of dipping sauces such as homemade sweet chili sauce, Bang Bang sauce, or even a simple soy sauce for a different twist.
• Presentation: A beautiful presentation goes a long way. Arrange the rolls on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center for a stunning display.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings! Try incorporating crispy fruits like apple or jicama for added crunch.

Accompaniments for Fresh Spring Rolls

When it comes to serving Fresh Spring Rolls, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas for accompaniments and serving styles:

• Side Dishes: Pair them with a light salad, like a Vietnamese noodle salad, to enhance the flavors.
• Lunch or Dinner: These rolls make for a great lunch option or a light dinner. You can even serve them as an appetizer for parties.
• Seasonal Pairing: In the spring and summer, fresh produce is at its peak. Use seasonal vegetables to make the rolls even more flavorful.
• Wrap It Up: Consider serving these rolls as part of a larger meal, perhaps as a part of a Asian-inspired platter with dumplings and rice dishes.

FAQ

Conclusion

Fresh Spring Rolls are a delightful way to enjoy fresh and vibrant flavors in a portable format. The combination of crispy vegetables, succulent shrimp, and a creamy dipping sauce creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give these a try. You’ll not only impress your loved ones but also enjoy the process of making them together. So gather your ingredients and get rolling!

Fresh Spring Rolls

The ultimate fresh and vibrant dish, Fresh Spring Rolls are a delightful combination of crisp vegetables and a creamy peanut dipping sauce. Perfect for a light lunch or appetizer, these rolls are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this healthy delight tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Appetizers, Side Dishes

Cuisine: Vietnamese

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic
• ¼-½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or ½ teaspoon Sriracha sauce
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water as needed
• 1 package spring roll wrappers 8-10 per package
• 2 ounces rice vermicelli
• 8 butter lettuce leaves or any soft lettuce, ribs removed, torn into small pieces
• 2 medium mangos peeled and sliced into thin strips
• 1 large red pepper cut into thin strips
• 1 large carrot peeled and shredded or sliced into thin strips
• 1 large English cucumber sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage
• 1 pound small cooked shrimp deveined, tails removed, optional
• 1 small bunch cilantro
• 1 small bunch fresh mint

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Frying Pan
• Blender
• Large Pot
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Prepare the dipping sauce by mixing together ¼ cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, and 1 clove garlic (minced) in a small food processor or blender. If you prefer, you can whisk these ingredients by hand. The goal is to achieve a smooth consistency. If it's too thick, add 2 to 3 tablespoons water gradually, one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired dipping consistency. Cover and chill the sauce until you're ready to serve.
2. Next, prepare the rice noodles. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then add 2 ounces rice vermicelli to the boiling water. Turn off the heat and allow the noodles to soak for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Once they're softened, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Now, it's time to prepare your work station. Gather all your fillings—the mango, cucumber, carrot, red pepper, cilantro, mint, and shrimp. Fill a shallow dish with an inch of warm water to dampen your spring roll wrappers. Lay a clean, lint-free tea towel on your work surface to keep everything organized.
4. Dampen the wrapper by placing it in the warm water for about 15 to 20 seconds, or until it becomes pliable but still has some structure. Carefully lift it out and lay it flat on the towel.
5. Assemble your spring roll by covering the lower third of the wrapper with a few pieces of butter lettuce. On top, layer a small handful of the rice noodles, a bit of red cabbage, and a few strips of carrot, cucumber, red pepper, and mango. Add a couple of leaves of mint and cilantro for fresh flavor. If you’re using shrimp, place three pieces pink side down just above the other fillings.
6. To roll, take the lower edge of the rice paper and tightly roll it up towards the shrimp, keeping the filling secure. Once you reach the shrimp, fold in the left and right sides of the wrapper. Continue rolling until the spring roll is complete and sealed.
7. Repeat the rolling process with the remaining ingredients. Take your time to get the rolling technique right, and don’t worry if your first few rolls aren't perfect—they'll still taste amazing!
8. Finally, cut the spring rolls on a diagonal to make them visually appealing when served. Arrange them on a platter and serve them alongside the chilled dipping sauce.

Notes

To keep the rolls fresh, wrap them individually in a damp paper towel, followed by plastic wrap or parchment paper. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

While it's best to enjoy these rolls fresh, if you need to freeze them, wrap them tightly and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Serve your Fresh Spring Rolls with a variety of dipping sauces such as homemade sweet chili sauce, Bang Bang sauce, or even a simple soy sauce for a different twist.

A beautiful presentation goes a long way. Arrange the rolls on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center for a stunning display.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings! Try incorporating crispy fruits like apple or jicama for added crunch.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.