Before diving into the delightful world of fresh spring rolls, let’s take a moment to consider what can complement this dish beautifully. Fresh spring rolls, with their vibrant colors and crunchy textures, can be paired with various options.
Some ideas include a refreshing cucumber and carrot salad, which adds a nice crunch. A zesty dipping sauce made with lime and chili can add a kick. For a heartier meal, some might enjoy serving fresh rolls alongside a light vegetable stir-fry.
Others may want to indulge in a bowl of fragrant pho, a herbal Vietnamese noodle soup that ties perfectly with the freshness of the rolls.
Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know about fresh spring rolls!
Fresh spring rolls, often called "salad rolls," are a light and refreshing dish made with thin rice paper wrappers filled with an assortment of fresh vegetables, herbs, and proteins, like shrimp or chicken.
Unlike fried spring rolls, they celebrate the fresh, raw ingredients, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious diners.
Originating from Vietnam, these rolls are typically served cold or at room temperature, paired with an enticing dipping sauce.
This recipe shines for a few reasons. First, it uses incredibly fresh ingredients, keeping everything vibrant and appealing. Each bite packs nutrients, thanks to the array of vegetables and lean proteins.
The balance of flavors is enhanced by fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, and mint, creating a taste sensation that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Additionally, the simplicity of the preparation process – no cooking required for most ingredients – saves time and hassle in the kitchen.
To make fresh spring rolls, gather these ingredients:
For the spring rolls:
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (small size), peeled and deveined, or use grilled chicken
- 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into thin matchstick slices
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and cut into thin rounds
- 2 ripe mangos, peeled and julienned
- 1 package thin rice noodles
- 1 package rice paper wrappers for spring rolls
For the peanut sauce:
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hoisin sauce
- 3/4 cup sweet chili dipping sauce
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
Making fresh spring rolls is straightforward and fun! You’ll be rolling up some tasty, colorful bites in no time.
First, gather your ingredients and place them in small bowls around your workspace. This will make assembling the rolls much easier.
Make sure to slice the vegetables and fruits into thin, manageable pieces. The thinner they are, the easier they will fit into the wrappers.
Begin by soaking the thin rice noodles in warm water for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are soft. Drain and set aside. You want them pliable but not overcooked.
Now, fill a wide bowl with warm water and gently dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 to 15 seconds.
The wrapper should be soft but not too mushy. Carefully remove it and lay it flat on a clean surface.
In the center of the rice paper wrapper, place a small amount of rice noodles, a few pieces of shrimp or chicken, matchstick carrots, cucumber slices, julienned mango, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling challenging.
Starting from the side closest to you, fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then tuck in the sides, and continue rolling tightly away from you. You should have a neat, tightly rolled spring roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, and creamy peanut butter. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the flavors according to your taste. Want it spicier? Add a touch of hot sauce!
Cut the rolls in half diagonally for easier handling. Serve alongside the dipping sauce and enjoy!
If you have leftover fresh spring rolls, you can store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels.
This prevents the rolls from drying out. They’re best enjoyed within a day or two, as the rice paper can become chewy over time.
Fresh spring rolls can shine in various settings. Here are some ideas for serving:
If you're missing some components, fear not! Here are some alternatives:
Fresh spring rolls are not just a delightful addition to any meal; they’re a celebration of flavor and texture. They bring a refreshing aura to gatherings, easy to adapt and filled with nutritious ingredients.
As someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, I can assure you that trying your hand at crafting these rolls will not only impress your guests but also encourage you to keep exploring fresh, health-focused recipes.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the colorful, vibrant experience of making fresh spring rolls at home! You’ll be glad you did.
Imagine biting into a fresh spring roll. The first taste is a burst of crisp vegetables, followed by the subtle flavor of herbs, and then the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts.
It’s no wonder these colorful rolls are a staple in many cultures, especially in Southeast Asian cuisine. As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I love sharing recipes that are not just delicious but also health-conscious and easy to prepare.
Fresh spring rolls are a fantastic alternative to heavier, fried options.
In this post, I’ll walk you through making fresh spring rolls that are perfect for any occasion. Trust me, these rolls are bound to impress. Plus, with a few thoughtful tips, you’ll see how craftily you can adapt this dish to suit your tastes.
First, gather your ingredients and place them in small bowls around your workspace. This will make assembling the rolls much easier.
Make sure to slice the vegetables and fruits into thin, manageable pieces. The thinner they are, the easier they will fit into the wrappers.
Begin by soaking the thin rice noodles in warm water for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are soft. Drain and set aside. You want them pliable but not overcooked.
Now, fill a wide bowl with warm water and gently dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 to 15 seconds.
The wrapper should be soft but not too mushy. Carefully remove it and lay it flat on a clean surface.
In the center of the rice paper wrapper, place a small amount of rice noodles, a few pieces of shrimp or chicken, matchstick carrots, cucumber slices, julienned mango, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling challenging.
Starting from the side closest to you, fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then tuck in the sides, and continue rolling tightly away from you. You should have a neat, tightly rolled spring roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Servings 15
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Charlotte Shapiro is a registered dietitian and the author of Freshly Ingredients, a blog dedicated to easy, nutritious, and flavorful recipes. Based in Alaska, Charlotte draws inspiration from local ingredients and diverse cuisines to create balanced meals that are simple to prepare. With a passion for making healthy eating accessible, she shares practical tips and recipes that fit into busy lifestyles. Through her blog, Charlotte aims to empower readers to enjoy wholesome, home-cooked meals without the hassle.