Name: Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: For Spring Rolls:; 2 oz rice vermicelli; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; ¼ tsp fine sea salt; 1 cup torn butter lettuce; 1 cup red cabbage; 2 medium carrots; 2 persian mini cucumbers; 2 medium jalapeños; ¼ cup Green Onions; ¼ cup fresh cilantro; ¼ cup fresh mint; 8 sheets rice paper; For Peanut Sauce:; ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp reduced-sodium tamari; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic; 3 tbsp water

Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce are a delightful and healthy appetizer or light meal. These rolls are packed with crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tender rice noodles, wrapped in delicate rice paper. Paired with a savory peanut sauce, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.

Photos of Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. For instance, rice vermicelli and rice paper are specific to Asian cuisine and may require a trip to the international aisle or an Asian market. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, which you can find in the soy sauce section. Ensure to pick up fresh cilantro, mint, and jalapeños to give your rolls that refreshing and slightly spicy kick.

Fresh Spring Rolls With Peanut Sauce Ingredients

Rice vermicelli: Thin rice noodles that cook quickly and add a chewy texture to the rolls.

Toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor to the noodles.

Fine sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Butter lettuce: Provides a soft and buttery texture.

Red cabbage: Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color.

Carrots: Offer sweetness and crunch.

Persian mini cucumbers: Provide a fresh and crisp bite.

Jalapeños: Add a hint of heat.

Green onions: Contribute a mild onion flavor.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh and citrusy note.

Fresh mint: Provides a cool and aromatic touch.

Rice paper: Thin edible wrappers that hold all the ingredients together.

Creamy peanut butter: Forms the base of the peanut sauce.

Rice vinegar: Adds tanginess to the sauce.

Reduced-sodium tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Honey: Sweetens the peanut sauce.

Garlic: Adds a rich and savory depth to the sauce.

Water: Adjusts the consistency of the peanut sauce.

One reader, Joella Ostrander says:

These fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce are a delightful treat! The combination of crisp veggies and flavorful herbs wrapped in rice paper is refreshing, and the peanut sauce adds the perfect touch of savory sweetness. A healthy, tasty, and fun-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Joella Ostrander

Techniques for Making Perfect Fresh Spring Rolls

How to cook rice vermicelli: Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the noodles just until al dente, according to package directions. Drain, rinse them under cool water, and return them to the pot.

How to prepare rice paper: Fill a shallow pan with an inch of water. Place one rice paper in the water and let it rest for about 20 seconds, until the sheet is pliable but not super floppy. Carefully lay it flat on a lint-free tea towel.

How to roll spring rolls: Leaving about 1 inch of open rice paper around the edges, cover the lower third of the paper with fillings. Fold the lower edge up over the fillings, rolling upward just until the filling is compactly enclosed. Fold over the short sides like a burrito, then roll it up completely.

How to make peanut sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, tamari, honey, sesame oil, and garlic. Whisk in 2 to 3 tablespoons of water, as needed to make a creamy but dip-able sauce.

How To Make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

These fresh spring rolls are full of crisp greens, rice noodles, carrots, and cucumbers. They’re served with a smooth and creamy peanut sauce.

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Spring Rolls:

2ozrice vermicelli,or maifun brown rice noodles
1tsptoasted sesame oil
¼tspfine sea salt
1cuptorn butter lettuce,ribs removed
1cupred cabbage,very thinly sliced
2medium carrots,peeled and cut into matchsticks or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler
2persian mini cucumbers,or 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler
2medium jalapeños,ribs and seeds removed, thinly sliced
¼cupgreen onions,thinly sliced
¼cupfresh cilantro,roughly chopped
¼cupfresh mint,roughly chopped
8sheets rice paper,or spring roll wrappers

For Peanut Sauce:

⅓cupcreamy peanut butter
2tbsprice vinegar
2tbspreduced-sodium tamari,or soy sauce
2tbsphoney,or maple syrup
1tbsptoasted sesame oil
2cloves garlic,pressed or minced
3tbspwater,as needed

Instructions

Spring rolls:

Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the noodles just until al dente, according to package directions. Drain, rinse them under cool water, and return them to the pot.
Turn off the heat, toss the noodles with the sesame oil and salt, and set aside.
Fill a shallow pan with an inch of water. Fold a lint-free tea towel in half and place it next to the dish.
Combine the green onion, cilantro and mint in a small bowl, and stir.
Place one rice paper in the water and let it rest for about 20 seconds, give or take. Wait until the sheet is pliable but not super floppy. Carefully lay it flat on the towel.
Leaving about 1 inch of open rice paper around the edges, cover the lower third of the paper with a few pieces of butter lettuce, followed by a small handful of rice noodles, some cabbage, and a few strips of carrot, cucumber and jalapeño. Sprinkle generously with the herb mix.
Fold the lower edge up over the fillings, rolling upward just until the filling is compactly enclosed. Fold over the short sides like a burrito. Lastly, roll it up. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Peanut Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, tamari, honey, sesame oil, and garlic. Whisk in 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed to make a creamy but dip-able sauce.
Serve the spring rolls with peanut sauce on the side. They can be served whole, or sliced in half on the diagonal with a sharp chef’s knife.

Nutrition

Calories: 182.51kcal
Fat: 7.97g
Saturated Fat: 1.47g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.36g
Carbohydrates: 25.46g
Fiber: 2.09g
Sugar: 7.45g
Protein: 4.07g
Sodium: 298.09mg
Calcium: 33.83mg
Potassium: 232.02mg
Iron: 1.16mg
Vitamin A: 156.90µg
Vitamin C: 13.57mg

Crucial Technique for Assembling Fresh Spring Rolls

When working with rice paper, ensure that the water is warm but not too hot, as overly hot water can cause the rice paper to become too soft and tear easily. Gently submerge the rice paper for about 20 seconds until it is pliable but still slightly firm. This will make it easier to handle and wrap around the fillings without breaking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Fresh Spring Rolls

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the vegetables and mix the herbs ahead of time to streamline the assembly process.

Use pre-shredded vegetables: Save time by buying pre-shredded carrots and cabbage from the store.

Batch cook noodles: Cook a larger batch of rice vermicelli and store them in the fridge for future use.

Simplify the sauce: Make the peanut sauce in bulk and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Assembly line method: Set up an assembly line with all your ingredients to make rolling the spring rolls quicker and more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe

rice vermicelli - Substitute with glass noodles: Glass noodles have a similar texture and can be used in place of rice vermicelli.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a different flavor but can still add richness to the dish.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of saltiness.
butter lettuce - Substitute with romaine lettuce: Romaine lettuce has a similar crunch and can be used as a substitute.
red cabbage - Substitute with green cabbage: Green cabbage has a similar texture and can be used if red cabbage is not available.
carrots - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers add a different crunch and sweetness, making them a good alternative.
persian mini cucumbers - Substitute with English cucumbers: English cucumbers have a similar texture and mild flavor.
jalapeños - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and can be used as a substitute.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in place of green onions.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a different but fresh flavor that can replace cilantro.
fresh mint - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a different aromatic flavor but can be used as a substitute.
rice paper - Substitute with collard greens: Collard greens can be used as a wrap alternative for a different texture and flavor.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used as a substitute.
reduced-sodium tamari - Substitute with low-sodium soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and can be used as a substitute.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil provides a similar nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though the flavor will be slightly different.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more flavor compared to plain water.

Presentation Ideas for Fresh Spring Rolls

Use a clean, white plate: A pristine white plate will make the vibrant colors of the spring rolls and peanut sauce pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Arrange the spring rolls neatly: Place the spring rolls in a fan shape or in a straight line, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This creates a sense of order and elegance.
Slice the spring rolls diagonally: Cut each spring roll in half on the diagonal with a sharp chef's knife. This reveals the colorful interior and adds visual interest.
Use small dipping bowls for the peanut sauce: Serve the peanut sauce in small, elegant dipping bowls placed next to the spring rolls. This keeps the sauce contained and adds a touch of sophistication.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few leaves of fresh cilantro and mint around the plate. This not only adds a burst of color but also hints at the flavors within the spring rolls.
Add a touch of texture: Place a small mound of finely shredded red cabbage or carrots on the side of the plate. This adds texture and complements the main dish.
Drizzle with sesame oil: Lightly drizzle a few drops of toasted sesame oil around the plate for an added layer of aroma and flavor.
Use edible flowers: Add a few edible flowers to the plate for a pop of color and an extra touch of elegance. This elevates the presentation to a Michelin-star level.
Serve with a side of lime wedges: Place a couple of lime wedges on the plate. This not only adds a splash of color but also offers a fresh, zesty option for diners to squeeze over their spring rolls.
Keep the plate clean: Wipe any smudges or drips from the plate edges before serving. A clean presentation is crucial for a professional, high-end look.

Essential Tools for Making Spring Rolls and Peanut Sauce

Pot: Used to boil water and cook the rice vermicelli until al dente.
Strainer: Essential for draining the cooked noodles and rinsing them under cool water.
Shallow pan: Needed to fill with water for softening the rice paper sheets.
Lint-free tea towel: Placed next to the shallow pan to lay the softened rice paper on.
Small bowl: Used to combine the green onion, cilantro, and mint.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping and preparing vegetables and herbs.
Chef's knife: Essential for slicing vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and jalapeños.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients like sesame oil, salt, rice vinegar, tamari, and honey.
Whisk: Needed to mix the peanut sauce ingredients together until smooth.
Serving platter: For presenting the finished spring rolls with the peanut sauce on the side.
Small bowl: Another small bowl is needed to whisk together the peanut sauce ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Spring Rolls

To store the fresh spring rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep the rice paper wrappers crisp, store the filling ingredients separately in the refrigerator and assemble the rolls just before serving.
The peanut sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the spring rolls for up to 2 months:
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- To prevent the rolls from sticking together, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer.
- When ready to eat, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Note that the texture of the rice paper wrappers may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit chewier.
The peanut sauce can also be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.

Interesting Fact About Fresh Spring Rolls

A fun fact about this recipe is that spring rolls are a traditional Vietnamese dish often enjoyed as a light and healthy appetizer. The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs wrapped in rice paper makes them a refreshing and nutritious option.

Is Making Fresh Spring Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

This fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like rice vermicelli, butter lettuce, red cabbage, and carrots are affordable and widely available. The peanut sauce components are pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $12-$15.

Are Fresh Spring Rolls With Peanut Sauce Healthy?

This fresh spring roll recipe is a healthy and nutritious choice. The ingredients are primarily vegetables, herbs, and lean protein, providing a good balance of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The rice paper and vermicelli noodles are low in fat and calories, making them a light and healthy option. The peanut sauce, while containing some healthy fats from the peanut butter and sesame oil, is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of protein.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce added sugars and opt for a low-sodium tamari to decrease the overall sodium content
Include additional vegetables, such as bell peppers, bean sprouts, or avocado, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Replace the white rice vermicelli with a whole grain alternative, such as brown rice noodles or quinoa, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Limit the amount of peanut sauce used or serve it on the side to control the calorie and fat intake

By incorporating these changes, the spring rolls can be an even more nutritious and well-rounded meal that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Editor's Opinion on This Fresh Spring Roll Recipe

This fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper create a refreshing bite, while the sesame oil adds a subtle nuttiness to the noodles. The peanut sauce, with its creamy consistency and balanced sweet-salty profile, complements the rolls perfectly. The use of reduced-sodium tamari and honey ensures a healthier dip without compromising taste. Overall, this recipe is a vibrant, healthy option that is both visually appealing and delicious.

Enhance Your Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Imagine a vibrant salad bursting with the creamy richness of avocado and the sweet, tropical notes of mango. Tossed with a zesty lime dressing, this side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the savory spring rolls.

Spicy Thai Coconut Soup: A bowl of aromatic Thai coconut soup with a hint of lemongrass and a kick of chili heat. The creamy coconut milk base harmonizes beautifully with the fresh flavors of the spring rolls, creating a symphony of tastes.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Caramelized pineapple chunks grilled to perfection, offering a smoky sweetness that complements the crisp and fresh spring rolls. These skewers are a delightful tropical treat that will transport your taste buds to paradise.

Edamame with Sea Salt: A simple yet satisfying bowl of steamed edamame, lightly sprinkled with sea salt. These tender soybeans provide a protein-packed, crunchy bite that pairs wonderfully with the delicate textures of the spring rolls.

Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango: End your meal on a sweet note with a serving of coconut sticky rice topped with juicy slices of mango. This classic Thai dessert offers a creamy, sweet finish that balances the savory elements of the spring rolls.

Similar Recipes to Fresh Spring Rolls With Peanut Sauce

Vietnamese Pho: Dive into a steaming bowl of Vietnamese Pho, a fragrant soup brimming with rice noodles, tender slices of beef, and a medley of fresh herbs. The rich, aromatic broth is infused with star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Hanoi.

Thai Mango Salad: Experience a burst of tropical flavors with Thai Mango Salad. This vibrant salad combines juicy mango slices, crunchy peanuts, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. Tossed in a tangy lime and fish sauce dressing, it's a refreshing and zesty delight.

Korean Bibimbap: Savor the harmony of textures and flavors with Korean Bibimbap. This colorful rice bowl features a variety of sautéed vegetables, marinated beef, and a perfectly fried egg on top. Drizzle with spicy gochujang sauce and mix everything together for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Japanese Gyoza: Indulge in the crispy and juicy goodness of Japanese Gyoza. These delightful dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork, cabbage, and garlic. Pan-fried to perfection and served with a tangy soy-vinegar dipping sauce, they make for an irresistible appetizer or snack.

Chinese Hot and Sour Soup: Warm up with a bowl of Chinese Hot and Sour Soup. This comforting soup is packed with tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, all swimming in a tangy and spicy broth. The perfect balance of vinegar and white pepper will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Fresh Spring Rolls

Main Courses:

Grilled Teriyaki Salmon: Grilled Teriyaki Salmon is a delightful fusion of Asian flavors and grilled perfection. The salmon fillets are marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and a touch of brown sugar. This marinade infuses the fish with a sweet and savory taste that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Serve it with a side of steamed jasmine rice and blanched asparagus for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions to add a touch of elegance and extra flavor.**

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious option that brings together a variety of textures and flavors. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, quinoa, black beans, and corn. This filling is seasoned with cumin, paprika, and garlic for a robust taste. Top each pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.**

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, rich cake. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for any chocolate lover. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for an added touch of elegance. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries to elevate the presentation.

Lemon Meringue Tart: This dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a refreshing end to any meal. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a few candied lemon slices for a touch of sophistication. The meringue, lightly browned to perfection, adds a delightful crisp texture that complements the smooth lemon filling. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top enhances the citrusy aroma and flavor.

Why trust this Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe:

This recipe for fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce is a delightful blend of fresh, crisp vegetables and flavorful herbs, wrapped in delicate rice paper. The peanut sauce adds a creamy, savory touch that perfectly complements the rolls. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to provide a balance of textures and flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, freshness, and the delicious harmony of Asian-inspired flavors.

Share your thoughts on the Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delightful dish!

FAQ:

How do I keep the rice paper from tearing when making the spring rolls?

Make sure to soak the rice paper just until it's pliable but not too soft. If it's too floppy, it can tear easily. Also, handle it gently and work on a damp towel to prevent sticking.

Can I make the spring rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a few hours ahead. Just cover them with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep them from drying out. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

What can I use as a substitute for tamari in the peanut sauce?

You can use soy sauce if you don't have tamari. Just keep in mind that soy sauce is usually saltier, so you might want to use a bit less and adjust to taste.

Are there any alternatives to peanut butter for the sauce?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter if you have a peanut allergy or just want to try something different.

How do I make the spring rolls more filling?

You can add some protein like cooked shrimp, tofu, or chicken to make them more substantial. Just slice the protein thinly and add it along with the other fillings.