why make this recipe

Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are a fantastic choice for a light meal or a fun appetizer. They are colorful, packed with fresh vegetables, and easy to make. Plus, the peanut sauce adds a delicious, creamy flavor that takes these rolls to the next level. They’re healthy, customizable, and perfect for warm weather or gatherings.

how to make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Ingredients

2 ounces rice vermicelli or maifun brown rice noodles*
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup torn butter lettuce, ribs removed
1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage
2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler
2 Persian (mini) cucumbers or 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler
2 medium jalapeños, ribs and seeds removed, thinly sliced
¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh mint
8 sheets rice paper (spring roll wrappers)
⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari or soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed

Directions

To make the spring rolls:

Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse them under cool water. Return the noodles to the pot, off the heat, and toss with sesame oil and salt. Set aside.
Fill a shallow pan (like a pie plate or a 9” round cake pan) with an inch of water. Fold a lint-free tea towel in half and place it next to the dish. Make sure your prepared fillings are within reach. In a small bowl, combine the green onions, cilantro, and mint. Stir to mix.
Place one rice paper in the water and let it soak for about 20 seconds, or until it feels pliable but not overly soft. Carefully lay it flat on the towel.
Cover the lower third of the rice paper with a few pieces of butter lettuce. Next, add a small handful of rice noodles, cabbage, strips of carrot, cucumber, and jalapeño. Sprinkle with the herb mix.
Fold the lower edge up over the fillings. Roll gently until the filling is snugly enclosed. Then fold over the short sides like a burrito and finally roll it up tightly. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients.

To make the 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 reach a creamy yet dippable consistency.

Serve the spring rolls with the peanut sauce on the side. You can enjoy them whole or slice them in half on the diagonal before serving.

how to serve Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Serve these fresh spring rolls on a platter with the peanut sauce in a small bowl for dipping. They look colorful and inviting. You can serve them as a light lunch, appetizer, or even as a party snack.

how to store Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Fresh spring rolls are best enjoyed the same day they are made. If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The peanut sauce can also be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for about a week.

tips to make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Make sure not to soak the rice paper too long; it should be soft but firm enough to hold your fillings.
Prepare all your fillings before starting to roll; it makes the process easier and quicker.
If you like more protein, add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to your rolls.

variation

You can easily customize your spring rolls with other ingredients. Try adding avocado for creaminess, bell peppers for crunch, or mango for sweetness.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare spring rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to roll them on the same day for the freshest taste.

2. Can I freeze fresh spring rolls?
No, fresh spring rolls do not freeze well as the rice paper can become too mushy when thawed.

3. Is the peanut sauce vegetarian?
Yes, the peanut sauce is vegetarian, but make sure to check if the soy sauce is made with plant-based ingredients if that is essential for you.