Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Recipe

This delectable spring roll bowls and peanut sauce recipe brings together a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, succulent shrimp, and hearty rice noodles, all draped in a flavorful homemade peanut sauce. This dish provides a lighter, deconstructed take on traditional spring rolls, offering all the same flavors without the deep frying.

Photos of Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are common and easy to find. However, the fish sauce used in the peanut sauce might be a bit tricky. It's a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, providing a unique umami flavor. You can find it in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Also, rice noodles are a type of noodles made from rice flour and water, they are often used in Asian cuisine. If unavailable in your regular grocery store, you can find them in any Asian supermarket.

Ingredients for Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce

Shrimp: A protein-rich seafood that adds a juicy, succulent texture to the dish.

Cilantro: Herb that adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Mint: Leaves that add a refreshing note.

Green onions: Mild oniony flavor that enhances overall taste.

Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and a crunchy texture.

Carrot: Gives a sweet taste and a crunchy texture.

Avocado: Adds a rich, creamy texture.

English cucumber: Refreshing and crunchy with a mild flavor.

Red cabbage: Brings a crunchy texture and a slightly peppery flavor.

Rice noodles: Serve as the base for this dish, absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.

Peanut butter: Gives the sauce a rich, nutty flavor.

Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick to the sauce.

Garlic: Adds a savory depth to the sauce.

Lime juice: Adds a tangy freshness to the sauce.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the sauce.

Sriracha: Introduces a spicy kick to the sauce.

Light brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the sauce.

Honey: Another sweet element in the sauce.

Fish sauce: Adds a deep, salty, umami flavor to the sauce.

One reader, Britt Belton says:

This spring roll bowls and peanut sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are fresh and vibrant, and the peanut sauce is a delightful addition. It's a perfect blend of textures and tastes. I love how customizable it is, making it a go-to for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal.

Britt Belton

Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Spring Roll Bowls

How to make peanut sauce: Whisk together peanut butter, ginger, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, sriracha, light brown sugar, honey, and fish sauce, adding water to create a runny sauce.

How to cook shrimp: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add shrimp, season with salt, and cook for 1½ to 2 minutes per side until cooked through.

How to cook rice noodles: Bring lightly salted water to a boil, then cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse before serving.

How to assemble spring roll bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among 4 plates, sprinkle with cilantro, mint, and green onions. Top with bell pepper, carrot, avocado, cucumber, cabbage, and cooked shrimp. Drizzle each serving with peanut sauce before serving.

How To Make Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce

These flavorful spring roll bowls offer a sweet and creamy bite with peanut sauce. Toss in chicken or shrimp into the bowl of veggies for a tastier dish.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1¼lbsshrimp,large, peeled and deveined or 1 lb chicken, diced into 1-inch cubes
⅓cupcilantro,fresh, chopped
⅓cupmint,or basil, fresh, chopped
⅓cupgreen onions,chopped
1red bell pepper,cored and julienned
1carrot,large, peeled and julienned
1avocado,large, sliced
⅓English cucumber,halved and thinly sliced
1cupred cabbage,very thinly sliced
10ozrice noodles,white or brown, medium thick, cooked according to package instructions

For Peanut Sauce:

½cuppeanut butter,creamy, low sodium
2tspginger,fresh, finely peeled and minced
1tspgarlic,minced
1½tbsplime juice,fresh
1½tbspsoy sauce,low sodium or regular
2tspSriracha
1½tbsplight brown sugar,packed
1½tbsphoney
1tspfish sauce,optional
6tbspwater,hot

Instructions

In a mixing bowl whisk together all of the peanut sauce ingredients while adding in enough water to create a runny sauce. Set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season lightly with salt, and cook through for about 1½ to 2 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, bring lightly salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook noodles according to package instructions after preparing all of the ingredients so noodles don’t stick together. Drain and rinse.
Divide noodles among 4 plates. Sprinkle with cilantro, mint and green onions.
Top with bell pepper, carrot, avocado, cucumber, cabbage and shrimp.
Drizzle each serving with peanut sauce.
Serve and enjoy.

Recipe Notes

If using chicken cook on medium-high heat for about 7 minutes, turning once halfway through, until 165 degrees F in the center.

Nutrition

Calories: 708.17kcal
Fat: 26.08g
Saturated Fat: 4.93g
Trans Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.60g
Carbohydrates: 87.77g
Fiber: 8.65g
Sugar: 17.21g
Protein: 33.70g
Cholesterol: 178.60mg
Sodium: 1412.59mg
Calcium: 163.11mg
Potassium: 925.12mg
Iron: 3.28mg
Vitamin A: 292.08µg
Vitamin C: 62.29mg

Technique Tip for Enhancing Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce

When preparing the rice noodles, it's crucial to not overcook them as they can become mushy and lose their texture. To ensure they're perfectly cooked, taste test a noodle before draining. They should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Also, rinsing the noodles under cold water after cooking stops the cooking process and helps to remove excess starch, which can make your noodles stick together.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spring Roll Bowls

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and make the peanut sauce in advance to save time during meal prep.

Use pre-cooked shrimp: Purchase pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.

Multi-task: While the shrimp is cooking, prepare the noodles and chop the vegetables to save time in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Quick assembly: Opt for quick-cooking rice noodles to reduce the overall preparation time for the dish.

Efficient slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for quick and uniform slicing of vegetables, saving time on prep work.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the process more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Recipe

shrimp - Substitute with sliced chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for shrimp, providing a similar protein base for the dish. It also absorbs flavors well and can be seasoned to mimic the taste of shrimp.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish. It can also add a vibrant green color similar to cilantro.
mint - Substitute with basil: Basil can be used as a substitute for mint, providing a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish. It can add a refreshing herbal note similar to mint.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, providing a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish. They can be used as a garnish or mixed into the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a similar sweet and crunchy texture to the dish. It also adds a vibrant color.
carrot - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can be used as a substitute for carrot, providing a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish. It can add a refreshing and crisp element.
avocado - Substitute with mango: Mango can be used as a substitute for avocado, providing a creamy and sweet texture to the dish. It adds a tropical twist and complements the other flavors.
english cucumber - Substitute with regular cucumber: Regular cucumber can be used as a substitute for English cucumber, providing a similar crisp and refreshing taste to the dish. It can be sliced or diced for a similar texture.
red cabbage - Substitute with green cabbage: Green cabbage can be used as a substitute for red cabbage, providing a crunchy and slightly peppery flavor to the dish. It also adds a vibrant color.
rice noodles - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles can be used as a substitute for rice noodles, providing a nutty flavor and a chewy texture to the dish. They are a good alternative for a gluten-free option.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a similar creamy and nutty flavor to the sauce. It is a good alternative for those with peanut allergies.
ginger - Substitute with ground turmeric: Ground turmeric can be used as a substitute for ginger, providing a warm and earthy flavor to the sauce. It adds a vibrant yellow color and a subtle spiciness.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a concentrated garlic flavor to the sauce. It is convenient and easy to incorporate.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice, providing a similar citrusy tang to the sauce. It adds a bright and refreshing flavor.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a substitute for soy sauce, providing a gluten-free alternative with a similar savory and salty flavor to the sauce.
sriracha - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can be used as a substitute for sriracha, providing a spicy and garlicky flavor to the sauce. It adds heat and depth of flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for light brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor to the sauce. It is a natural sweetener option.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, providing a sweet and rich flavor to the sauce. It adds a depth of sweetness and complements the other flavors.
fish sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce, providing a savory and umami flavor to the sauce. It is a good alternative for those who prefer a vegetarian option.
water - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a substitute for water, providing a creamy and rich texture to the sauce. It adds a hint of coconut flavor and richness.

Presentation Ideas for Spring Roll Bowls

Elevate the plating: Arrange the vibrant and colorful ingredients in an artful and visually appealing manner, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate and visually stunning edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
Create height and dimension: Strategically layer the components to create a visually striking and dynamic presentation, showcasing the various textures and colors.
Utilize Asian-inspired serving ware: Opt for elegant and minimalist Asian-inspired serving ware to complement the theme and elevate the overall dining experience.
Garnish with microgreens: Sprinkle the dish with vibrant and flavorful microgreens to add a pop of freshness and a subtle hint of earthy flavors.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Skillfully drizzle the peanut sauce in an artistic and intricate design, adding a touch of finesse and creativity to the plating.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Pay attention to symmetry and balance in the arrangement of ingredients, creating a visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing composition.

Essential Tools for Making Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and grinding nuts or seeds.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, marinating, and mixing batters or doughs. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet is great for cooking delicate foods like shrimp without them sticking to the pan. It requires less oil for cooking and is easy to clean.
Large pot: A large pot is used for boiling noodles, blanching vegetables, and making stocks or soups. It's a versatile tool for cooking large quantities of food.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, especially for creating a smooth and uniform texture in sauces, dressings, and batters.
Strainer: A strainer or colander is essential for draining and rinsing noodles, vegetables, or seafood. It helps remove excess water and ensures the ingredients are ready for use in the recipe.
Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting and preparing ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and shrimp. It's important to have a good quality, sharp knife for efficient and safe food preparation.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is key in cooking, and measuring cups and spoons are essential for portioning out ingredients like peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and other liquids or dry goods.

Storing and Freezing Spring Roll Bowls

The spring roll bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate from the other ingredients to prevent the noodles and vegetables from getting soggy.
If you want to prepare the bowls ahead of time, cook the shrimp and noodles, and chop the vegetables. Store each component separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
The peanut sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
While it's not recommended to freeze the assembled spring roll bowls, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and peanut sauce separately for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using.
If you have leftover rice noodles, you can freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place the frozen noodles in a colander and run hot water over them until they're thawed and heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Spring Roll Bowls

Reheat the spring roll bowls in the microwave: place the leftover noodles, vegetables, and shrimp in a microwave-safe bowl. cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. stir the ingredients to ensure even heating.
Reheat the spring roll bowls in a skillet: heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. add the leftover noodles, vegetables, and shrimp to the skillet. stir-fry the ingredients for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they may become tough and rubbery.
Reheat the peanut sauce in the microwave: transfer the leftover peanut sauce to a microwave-safe bowl. microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. stir the sauce well to ensure even heating. if the sauce appears too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheat the peanut sauce on the stovetop: pour the leftover peanut sauce into a small saucepan. heat the sauce over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. if the sauce appears too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir to achieve the desired consistency. heat the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Assemble the reheated spring roll bowls: once the noodles, vegetables, shrimp, and peanut sauce are heated through, assemble the bowls by placing the noodles in the bottom of each bowl, followed by the vegetables and shrimp. drizzle the warm peanut sauce over the top of each bowl. garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, and green onions, if desired.

Interesting Fact About Spring Roll Bowls

Spring roll bowls and peanut sauce is a versatile dish that can be easily customized with different ingredients to suit individual preferences.

Is Making Spring Roll Bowls at Home Cost-Effective?

This spring roll bowls and peanut sauce recipe offers a high degree of cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as shrimp, rice noodles, and vegetables makes it a budget-friendly choice. The versatility of the dish allows for ingredient substitutions based on seasonal availability, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it an economical and nutritious option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Healthy?

This spring roll bowl recipe is a healthy and nutritious option, packed with a variety of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole grain rice noodles. The shrimp provides a good source of low-fat protein, while the vegetables offer an array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The peanut sauce, however, contains a significant amount of fat and sugar, which could be a concern for those watching their calorie intake or managing certain health conditions.

To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of peanut butter in the sauce or replace it with a lower-fat alternative, such as PB2 powdered peanut butter
Increase the proportion of vegetables to noodles, ensuring a greater intake of essential nutrients and fiber
Opt for whole grain rice noodles to boost the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall salt content of the dish
Add additional herbs and spices, such as basil or chili flakes, to enhance flavor without relying on excessive amounts of sugar or salt
Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables to ensure a wide range of antioxidants and phytochemicals
Grill or bake the shrimp instead of cooking them in oil to reduce the overall fat content of the meal

Editor's Opinion on Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce

The spring roll bowls and peanut sauce recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The use of shrimp, cilantro, mint, and a variety of vegetables creates a colorful and appetizing dish. The peanut sauce adds a rich and creamy element with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Overall, it's a fantastic dish that offers a refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls.

Enhance Your Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Asparagus: Serve with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.

Grilled Pineapple: Add a touch of sweetness to the meal with some grilled pineapple slices.

Mango Salsa: Top the spring roll bowls with a fresh and tangy mango salsa for a burst of flavor.

Coconut Rice: Pair the spring roll bowls with fragrant coconut rice for a tropical twist.

Thai Cucumber Salad: Refresh the palate with a zesty and crunchy Thai cucumber salad.

Alternative Recipes to Spring Roll Bowls

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb and garlic marinade before grilling to perfection.

Mango Chicken Salad: Toss together juicy mango, grilled chicken, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Coconut Curry Soup: Simmer together coconut milk, curry paste, and an array of vegetables for a rich and flavorful soup that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Spring Roll Bowls

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil is sure to impress your guests with its fresh and zesty flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness, making it the perfect ending to any meal.

Why trust this Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome meal. The shrimp is cooked to perfection, complemented by vibrant cilantro, mint, and green onions. The addition of red bell pepper, carrot, avocado, and cucumber provides a refreshing crunch, while the peanut sauce adds a rich and savory element. The use of rice noodles offers a light and gluten-free base, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. With a harmonious blend of ingredients and a well-crafted peanut sauce, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience.

Want to share your experience making Spring Roll Bowls and Peanut Sauce or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of shrimp for this recipe, but I recommend using large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined for easier preparation.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the shrimp with tofu or tempeh, or simply omitting the protein altogether.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the peanut sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce or omit the sriracha. For a spicier kick, you can add more sriracha to suit your taste.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables, noodles, and peanut sauce ahead of time and assemble the bowls when you're ready to serve. Just make sure to store the components separately to maintain freshness.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely! You can use rice vermicelli, soba noodles, or even spiralized vegetables as a noodle alternative to suit your preference or dietary needs.