If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant appetizer that bursts with color, crunch, and flavor, then the Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe brings together delicate rice paper wrappers filled with crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs, paired perfectly with a luscious, creamy peanut sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. It’s an exciting way to enjoy wholesome, fresh ingredients wrapped into bite-sized delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an impressive party appetizer, or a healthy snack, these spring rolls deliver every time, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these vegetable spring rolls couldn’t be easier, and the ingredients are refreshingly simple yet absolutely essential. Each item adds something special—crunch from the cabbage, herbal brightness from the basil and mint, and that silky creaminess from avocado—ensuring every roll is a harmonious bite of flavor and texture.
- Rice paper wrappers: The delicate casing that holds all the fresh ingredients while staying soft and chewy once hydrated.
- Green leaf lettuce: Provides a crisp, refreshing base layer that prevents the rolls from being soggy.
- Fresh basil leaves: Adds a sweet, peppery aroma that elevates the overall taste.
- Fresh mint leaves: Offers a cool, bright note balancing the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Fresh cilantro: Brings herbal freshness that’s essential to authentic spring roll charm.
- Matchstick carrots: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color for crunch.
- Shredded purple cabbage: Offers a slightly crunchy texture plus a stunning pop of color.
- Red bell pepper: Sweet and crisp for added juiciness and brightness.
- English cucumber: Lightly crunchy and hydrating, it keeps the rolls fresh-tasting.
- Avocado: Creamy and smooth texture to contrast the crisp vegetables beautifully.
- Kosher salt: To season and bring out the natural flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the dipping sauce, uniquely rich and nutty.
- Reduced-sodium soy sauce: For savory saltiness without overpowering.
- Fresh lime juice: Bright citrus zing that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter.
- Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness that balances the sauce perfectly.
- Chili garlic sauce: Adds a gentle kick and a fragrant warmth.
- Fresh ginger: Offers a spicy, refreshing note in the sauce.
- Water: To thin the sauce to just the right creamy consistency.
How to Make Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Rice Paper
Begin by briefly soaking each rice paper wrapper in warm water just until it softens and becomes pliable—this usually takes a few seconds. Be careful not to soak it too long or it will tear. Place the softened wrapper flat on a clean, damp surface to prepare for filling.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables and Herbs
Lay a fresh green leaf lettuce across the center of the softened rice paper, then add generous handfuls of fresh basil, mint, and cilantro leaves. Follow this with vibrant matchstick carrots, shredded purple cabbage, sliced red bell pepper, thin cucumber strips, and creamy avocado slices. This layering ensures a balanced flavor and crunch in every bite.
Step 3: Season Lightly
Sprinkle a light pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the vegetables inside the wrapper. This seasoning step may seem small but it enhances each individual component’s natural flavors, creating a harmonious blend inside the roll.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Start folding the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling, then tuck in the sides to encase the vegetables snugly. Roll tightly toward the top to seal everything perfectly without tearing the delicate wrapper—practice makes perfect here!
Step 5: Repeat with Remaining Wrappers
Continue soaking, filling, seasoning, and rolling until all your ingredients are used, aiming for eight to eight and a half spring rolls. This method keeps the assembly line flowing and lets you enjoy the process as much as the final product.
Step 6: Whisk the Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce
Combine creamy peanut butter, reduced-sodium soy sauce, fresh lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, freshly grated ginger, and enough water in a bowl. Whisk everything until smooth and glossy, adjusting the water for your desired dipping consistency. This sauce is an irresistible partner that enhances the fresh flavors of the rolls beautifully.
How to Serve Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped peanuts or sesame seeds over the peanut dipping sauce for extra texture and a nutty crunch. Add a few thin lime wedges on the side for extra citrusy brightness that your guests can squeeze on top before eating.
Side Dishes
These spring rolls make an excellent appetizer or light meal alongside a crisp Asian-inspired salad, jasmine rice, or a simple noodle dish tossed in sesame oil. The refreshing rolls balance heartier sides and elevate any meal with their freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the spring rolls on a rectangular platter with alternating colors for a visual feast. Serve each roll with a small bowl of the creamy peanut dipping sauce garnished with chili flakes or fresh herbs. For a party, you could set up an interactive rolling station with all ingredients laid out for guests to customize their own vegetable spring rolls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap the spring rolls individually in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Keep them refrigerated and enjoy within 1 to 2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing these fresh spring rolls is not recommended as the delicate vegetables and the rice paper lose their texture upon thawing. The creamy peanut dipping sauce, however, can be frozen separately in a sealed container for up to a month if needed.
Reheating
Since these spring rolls are served fresh and uncooked, reheating is unnecessary. If stored properly, simply bring them to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use cooked vegetables in the Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with raw veggies for crunch and freshness, lightly steamed or sautéed vegetables like snap peas or mushrooms can add a warm, comforting twist without compromising flavor.
What can I substitute for peanut butter in the dipping sauce if I have allergies?
Sunflower seed butter or tahini make great nut-free alternatives that maintain the creamy texture and nutty flavor. Just adjust seasoning to balance the sauce to your taste.
How do I prevent the rice paper wrappers from sticking together?
Place a damp kitchen towel between each wrapped spring roll or line them up on a tray without touching. Keep them covered with a slightly damp cloth to retain moisture and prevent sticking.
Can I prepare the Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Assemble them up to a few hours in advance and store refrigerated with damp paper towels and plastic wrap. Just serve within the day for optimal freshness and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Definitely. All ingredients are plant-based and naturally vegan, making these spring rolls a delightful option for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting a light, healthy meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about biting into a fresh, crisp vegetable spring roll dipped in that rich, creamy peanut sauce, and this Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe captures that magic perfectly. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and a wonderful way to celebrate fresh ingredients. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen and at your table!
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Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fresh and healthy Vietnamese-style Vegetable Spring Rolls made with crisp lettuce, aromatic herbs, colorful veggies, and creamy avocado wrapped in soft rice paper, served with a flavorful peanut dipping sauce. Perfect as a light appetizer or snack, these no-cook rolls are refreshing and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Spring Rolls
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- Green leaf lettuce leaves, washed
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 English cucumber, julienned
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Peanut Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 to 4 tablespoons water (to thin)
Instructions
- Soak Rice Paper: Briefly soak one rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until soft and pliable. Remove it carefully and lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Layer Vegetables: Place a leaf of green leaf lettuce in the center of the wrapper. Add a small handful of fresh basil, mint, and cilantro leaves on top. Then layer matchstick carrots, shredded purple cabbage, sliced red bell pepper, julienned cucumber, and sliced avocado evenly over the lettuce and herbs.
- Season Filling: Lightly sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the vegetable mixture to enhance the flavor.
- Roll the Spring Roll: Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling, then tuck in the sides snugly, rolling tightly up towards the top edge to form a neat roll. Ensure the filling is enclosed securely.
- Repeat: Repeat the soaking, layering, seasoning, and rolling process with the remaining rice paper wrappers and ingredients until all spring rolls are formed.
- Prepare Peanut Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, reduced-sodium soy sauce, fresh lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and grated fresh ginger until smooth. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired dipping consistency.
- Serve: Serve the vegetable spring rolls fresh alongside the peanut dipping sauce for a delicious, crisp, and tangy appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Use warm water for soaking rice papers to ensure pliability without tearing.
- Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bean sprouts or julienned daikon radish for extra texture.
- For a spicier peanut sauce, increase chili garlic sauce or add a dash of sriracha.
- Spring rolls are best served immediately but can be covered with a damp towel and refrigerated briefly to prevent drying.
- Gluten-free if using gluten-free soy sauce.
