Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls

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Introduction

Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls are a vibrant, healthy, and refreshing dish packed with colorful vegetables, herbs, and tender shrimp, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. These spring rolls are perfect as an appetizer, light meal, or snack and are served with a flavorful dipping sauce that elevates every bite. With their light and fresh ingredients, these rolls offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

I remember the first time I made these for a summer gathering with friends. The table was filled with laughter and excitement as everyone admired the beautiful colors and fresh ingredients. What’s great about Vietnamese spring rolls is how customizable they are—you can include your favorite vegetables, swap shrimp for tofu or chicken, or even add a touch of fruit like mango for a sweet twist. The dipping sauces are just as versatile, with options like classic peanut sauce, tangy hoisin, or a zesty nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) to complement the rolls.

These spring rolls are surprisingly simple to make once you get the hang of rolling them. With just a few fresh ingredients, rice paper, and a little practice, you can create a batch of stunning and delicious rolls in no time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something fresh and light, these Vietnamese spring rolls are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

  • Summer gatherings
  • Light, refreshing meals
  • Healthy snacking
  • Picnics
  • Family dinners

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls will become your go-to for light, delicious eating:

  • Healthy and Light: Packed with fresh vegetables, shrimp, and herbs, these rolls are both nutritious and low in calories.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite proteins, vegetables, or sauces.
  • No Cooking Required: Aside from boiling shrimp, there’s no cooking involved, making it quick and easy.
  • Perfect for Hot Days: These rolls are refreshing and ideal for warm weather.
  • Fun to Assemble: Making spring rolls is a fun activity for family and friends.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for shrimp)
  • Servings: 12 rolls
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 90-120 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 1g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls:

For the Spring Rolls:

  • 12 rice paper wrappers
  • 1 ½ cups cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 ½ cups shredded lettuce (romaine, butter, or iceberg)
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1 cup julienned cucumber (seeds removed)
  • ½ cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • ½ cup fresh mint leaves
  • ½ cup fresh Thai basil leaves

For the Dipping Sauce (Peanut or Hoisin Sauce):

  • ½ cup hoisin sauce
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup water (to adjust consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Optional: Crushed peanuts or red pepper flakes for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Rice Paper Wrappers: Soft and delicate, they hold the fresh ingredients together while being light and chewy.
  • Shrimp: Provides a tender, protein-packed filling.
  • Fresh Herbs: Mint, cilantro, and Thai basil add an aromatic burst of flavor.
  • Rice Vermicelli: Light noodles that add texture and substance.
  • Peanut Sauce: A creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty dipping sauce that complements the fresh rolls perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Cook the Shrimp: Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Drain and let cool. Slice the shrimp in half lengthwise for easier rolling.
  2. Cook the Vermicelli Noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the noodles. Rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and julienne the carrots and cucumber. Tear the lettuce into small pieces.

Assemble the Spring Rolls:

  1. Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers: Fill a large bowl or shallow dish with warm water. Dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Remove and place it on a clean, damp kitchen towel or cutting board.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place a few pieces of lettuce in the center of the wrapper. Add a small handful of vermicelli noodles, carrots, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Lay 3-4 shrimp halves on top.
  3. Roll the Spring Rolls: Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then tightly roll it up from the bottom, similar to rolling a burrito. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

  1. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, water, soy sauce, and minced garlic until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
  2. Garnish: Top the dipping sauce with crushed peanuts or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.

Serve:

  1. Plate the Spring Rolls: Arrange the rolls on a platter and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.

How to Serve

  • With Extra Herbs: Add fresh mint or basil on the side for extra bursts of flavor.
  • As a Light Meal: Pair with a side of soup or salad for a complete meal.
  • For Parties: Slice the rolls in half for easier sharing.
  • Chilled: Keep them cool for an extra refreshing bite.

Additional Tips

  • Keep the rice paper moist but not overly wet to prevent tearing.
  • Don’t overfill the rolls to ensure easy wrapping.
  • Use a damp kitchen towel or plate to keep the rice paper from sticking.
  • Serve immediately or cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian Spring Rolls – Omit the shrimp and add tofu or more vegetables.
  2. Chicken Spring Rolls – Replace shrimp with shredded grilled chicken.
  3. Mango Spring Rolls – Add thin slices of mango for a tropical twist.
  4. Spicy Spring Rolls – Include sliced chili peppers or drizzle with sriracha.
  5. Gluten-Free Sauce – Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
  • Freezing: Not recommended as the rice paper can become brittle.

Special Equipment

  • Shallow dish for softening rice paper
  • Sharp knife for cutting vegetables and shrimp
  • Small pot for cooking shrimp and noodles

FAQ Section

  1. Can I make these in advance? Yes, but serve the same day for the freshest taste.
  2. Can I skip the noodles? Yes, the rolls will still be delicious.
  3. Can I use other proteins? Absolutely! Try tofu, chicken, or even mushrooms.
  4. How do I prevent the rolls from sticking together? Place them apart or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
  5. What if my rice paper tears? Use a second wrapper to cover the tear.

Conclusion

Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls are a delightful way to enjoy vibrant, refreshing flavors in every bite. These rolls are packed with a medley of crisp vegetables, tender protein, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Served with a flavorful dipping sauce, they’re as delicious as they are nutritious.

Whether you’re making them for a light lunch, a healthy snack, or a party appetizer, Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls are sure to impress. Their beautiful presentation and fresh taste make them a standout dish, and they’re surprisingly easy to assemble. With endless possibilities for customization, they’re a fun and creative way to enjoy fresh ingredients.

I’d love to see how your Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy rolling!

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