Fresh Spring Rolls Peanut Sauce
Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients in these delightful Fresh Spring Rolls paired with a creamy peanut sauce.
Fresh Spring Rolls are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, known for their light and refreshing taste. Paired with a rich peanut sauce, these rolls are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing, perfect for warm days
- Nutty and creamy peanut sauce adds a delicious twist
- Versatile for various fillings to suit your taste
The Joy of Fresh Ingredients
Fresh spring rolls are a delightful way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of spring. These rolls are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the array of fresh vegetables and herbs they contain. Each bite bursts with the crunch of lettuce, the sweetness of carrots, and the refreshing taste of mint and cilantro. Using seasonal ingredients ensures that your spring rolls are at their peak flavor and freshness, making them a perfect choice for a light meal or appetizer.
The versatility of fresh spring rolls allows you to customize them based on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer shrimp, tofu, or a medley of vegetables, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability means you can create a unique flavor profile with each batch, keeping your meals exciting and diverse. Plus, they are an excellent way to introduce children to new flavors and textures in a fun and interactive way.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Fresh spring rolls are an excellent option for meal prepping, as they can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days. Simply prepare the ingredients and assemble the rolls, then wrap them in damp paper towels and store them in an airtight container. This makes for a quick and nutritious grab-and-go meal for busy weekdays, perfect for lunchboxes or post-work snacks.
Additionally, the peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just whisk it together and it will stay fresh for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy your spring rolls with a delicious dip whenever the craving strikes. This makes the recipe not only convenient but also a healthy choice that can fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Dipping Sauce Variations
While the creamy peanut sauce is a classic pairing for fresh spring rolls, there are plenty of other dipping sauces that can elevate your experience. Consider trying a spicy hoisin sauce, a tangy lime vinaigrette, or a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile. Each sauce adds its unique twist, enhancing the overall taste of the rolls and allowing for a more personalized meal.
Experimenting with different dipping sauces can also be a fun way to explore various cuisines. For instance, an Asian-inspired soy and ginger sauce can add depth, while a zesty avocado lime dressing can bring a fresh, creamy element to the dish. Don't hesitate to mix and match flavors to discover your favorite combinations.
Ingredients
For the Spring Rolls
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or tofu (optional)
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Water to thin, as needed
Feel free to customize your spring rolls with other ingredients like bell peppers or avocado!
Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Soak the Rice Paper
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds, until soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Fill the Spring Roll
Place a small amount of vermicelli noodles, lettuce, carrots, cucumber, mint, cilantro, and shrimp or tofu (if using) on the bottom third of the wrapper.
Roll It Up
Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll from the bottom tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
Serve
Serve the spring rolls with the peanut sauce for dipping.
These spring rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Nutritional Benefits
Fresh spring rolls are not only delicious but also packed with a wealth of nutritional benefits. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables that make up the filling. Ingredients like carrots and cucumbers provide essential nutrients like vitamin A and potassium, while herbs like mint and cilantro add antioxidants that promote overall health.
Moreover, using rice paper wrappers instead of traditional fried options ensures that the rolls remain light and healthy. When filled with lean proteins such as shrimp or tofu, they offer a balanced meal that can help keep you satisfied without weighing you down. This makes fresh spring rolls an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh spring rolls are perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it's a casual family dinner, a summer picnic, or a festive gathering. They can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, making them an incredibly versatile dish. Pair them with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal that highlights the flavors of the season.
These rolls are also an excellent addition to potlucks or parties, as they are easy to transport and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Consider making a large batch and offering a selection of dipping sauces to encourage guests to try different combinations. This interactive element makes for a fun dining experience that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?
You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives.
→ How do I store leftover spring rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
→ Can I freeze spring rolls?
It's best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze uncooked rolls. Thaw and cook them directly from frozen.
Fresh Spring Rolls Peanut Sauce
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients in these delightful Fresh Spring Rolls paired with a creamy peanut sauce.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Simple Global Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Spring Rolls
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or tofu (optional)
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Water to thin, as needed
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds, until soft. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Place a small amount of vermicelli noodles, lettuce, carrots, cucumber, mint, cilantro, and shrimp or tofu (if using) on the bottom third of the wrapper.
Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll from the bottom tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
Serve the spring rolls with the peanut sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g