Fresh Vietnamese Spring Rolls – Light and Healthy Appetizer
Fresh, light, and packed with colorful veggies, these Spring Rolls are a delightful appetizer or snack that you can easily whip up at home. Traditionally found in Vietnamese cuisine, these rolls are wrapped in rice paper and served with a savory peanut dipping sauce. They are versatile, refreshing, and perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup cooked rice noodles (vermicelli)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh lettuce or spinach leaves
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- 8 large shrimp, cooked and halved (optional)
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts (optional)
- Peanut or hoisin sauce for dipping
Directions
Prepare the fillings. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them with cold water and drain well. Set aside.
Prepare the vegetables. Julienne the carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper into thin strips. Wash the lettuce or spinach, mint, and cilantro leaves, and pat them dry.
Soften the rice paper. Fill a large shallow dish or pan with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 5-10 seconds until it softens. Place it on a clean, damp kitchen towel.
Assemble the rolls. Place a small handful of rice noodles in the center of the wrapper. Add a few slices of carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce or spinach, and fresh herbs on top. If using shrimp, add two halves of shrimp.
Roll it up. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, fold in the sides, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Repeat the process for the remaining rolls.
Serve the spring rolls fresh with your choice of dipping sauce, like peanut or hoisin.
Recipe tips
To prevent the rice paper from sticking, dampen your work surface slightly or use a clean, moist towel. Adding shrimp or grilled tofu will give the rolls extra protein and flavor. Play with fresh herbs! Basil, mint, or cilantro all bring unique aromas to the dish. Prepare the peanut dipping sauce by mixing peanut butter with soy sauce, lime juice, hoisin sauce, and a pinch of sugar for an irresistible touch.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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