Introduction
Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are a refreshing and delicious dish that make for a perfect appetizer or light meal. These rolls are packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, wrapped in delicate rice paper, and served with a creamy peanut sauce that complements the freshness of the fillings. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Spring Rolls:
– 8 to 10 (10-inch) rice paper wrappers
– 5 green leaf lettuce leaves, torn into large pieces
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– ¾ cup fresh mint leaves
– ¾ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 cup matchstick carrots
– 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– ½ English cucumber, seeded and cut into long matchsticks
– 1 avocado, halved, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Peanut Sauce:
– ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
– 4 teaspoons reduced sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce, or more, to taste
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 to 6
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peanut Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and grated ginger.
– Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
– Fill a large shallow dish with warm water.
– Working one at a time, dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for 10-15 seconds until it becomes pliable.
– Carefully transfer the softened wrapper to a clean work surface.
– Place a piece of lettuce in the center of the wrapper.
– Layer on a few basil, mint, and cilantro leaves.
– Add a small handful of matchstick carrots, shredded cabbage, sliced bell pepper, cucumber matchsticks, and avocado slices.
– Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Roll the Spring Rolls:
– Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper tightly over the filling.
– Fold in the sides of the wrapper.
– Continue rolling the wrapper from the bottom to the top until the top edge is sealed, being careful not to tear the rice paper.
– Place the finished roll under a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
– Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
4. Serve:
– Serve the spring rolls immediately with the prepared peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
These fresh and healthy vegetable spring rolls are an enjoyable way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet. The combination of crisp vegetables and creamy peanut sauce creates a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and grated ginger. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water, whisking until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
Assemble the Spring Rolls
Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Working one at a time, dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for 10-15 seconds until it becomes pliable. Carefully transfer the softened wrapper to a clean work surface. Place a piece of lettuce in the center of the wrapper. Layer on a few basil, mint, and cilantro leaves. Add a small handful of matchstick carrots, shredded cabbage, sliced bell pepper, cucumber matchsticks, and avocado slices. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Roll the Spring Rolls
Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper tightly over the filling. Fold in the sides of the wrapper. Continue rolling the wrapper from the bottom to the top until the top edge is sealed, being careful not to tear the rice paper. Place the finished roll under a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
Serve
Serve the spring rolls immediately with the prepared peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Storage
Spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep a damp paper towel over them to maintain moisture.
Customization
Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences. Other vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or even cooked shrimp can be added.
Serving Tips
These spring rolls pair well with other Asian-inspired dishes or can be served as a stand-alone appetizer at gatherings.
Cook Techniques
Prep Work
Before starting with the spring rolls, make sure all vegetables are washed, peeled, and cut into the appropriate sizes. This will streamline the assembly process and make it more enjoyable.
Soaking Rice Paper
To soften rice paper wrappers, dip them in warm water for 10-15 seconds. Ensure they become pliable but not overly soggy, which can lead to tearing.
Layering Ingredients
Layer ingredients carefully in the center of the rice paper, allowing enough space on the edges for folding. Consider the color and texture of each layer for visual appeal.
Rolling Technique
Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling first, then tuck in the sides before rolling it up completely. Use a gentle but firm pressure to keep the roll tight.
Keeping Rolls Moist
Cover finished spring rolls with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out while you continue assembling the others.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in the spring rolls?
Yes, you can customize the filling with any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, radishes, or zucchini.
How do I store leftover spring rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, layered with damp paper towels, for up to 2 days.
Can the peanut sauce be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peanut sauce a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container and stir it before serving.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian or vegan version of the peanut sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to make the sauce vegan.
What can I serve with spring rolls?
Spring rolls can be served alongside other appetizers like dumplings, or as part of a larger meal with rice dishes and salads.
Conclusion
These fresh and healthy vegetable spring rolls are a delightful choice for anyone seeking a light meal or appetizer. The combination of vibrant vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper, paired with the creamy peanut sauce, creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing. Enjoy making these at home for a nutritious snack or a fun gathering with friends and family!
Vegetable Sushi Rolls
Try using sushi rice, nori sheets, and an array of vegetables like cucumber, avocado, and bell pepper for a sushi-inspired variation.
Thai Peanut Lettuce Wraps
Same filling as the spring rolls, but served in large lettuce leaves for a crunchy and refreshing wrap, accompanied by the peanut sauce.
Fruit Spring Rolls
Swap out the savory ingredients for fresh fruits such as mango, strawberries, and kiwi, served with a sweet coconut dipping sauce.
Grilled Vegetable Tacos
Use grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in a taco shell, topped with avocado and cilantro, paired with a spicy peanut dressing.
Asian Slaw Salad
Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers with a sesame-peanut dressing to enjoy the same flavors in a salad form.
