Easy and fresh salad rolls are the perfect no-cook solution for a light, healthy meal or lunchbox. These Vietnamese-inspired spring rolls are packed with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and vibrant flavors, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. With a simple peanut dipping sauce on the side, they’re not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or something to impress guests, these salad rolls come together in minutes without any cooking required!
Ingredients (for 8-10 rolls):
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup lettuce (butter, romaine, or green leaf), torn into large pieces
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned (cut into thin strips)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, julienned
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (optional)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced thinly (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup rice vermicelli noodles (optional, pre-soaked in cold water for 10 minutes)
Peanut Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp water (or adjust for desired consistency)
- A pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep Your Vegetables: Julienne the carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers. Tear or cut the lettuce into large pieces, and gather the mint, cilantro, and basil leaves.
- Soften the Rice Paper: Pour warm water into a shallow dish, and briefly dip each rice paper wrapper until it becomes soft and pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface or damp towel.
- Assemble the Salad Rolls:
- Place a few pieces of lettuce in the center of the softened rice paper.
- Add a small handful of shredded carrots, cucumber strips, red bell pepper, and any other vegetables you’re using (like avocado, cilantro, or basil).
- If you’re using the pre-soaked vermicelli noodles, add a small amount to the center.
- Roll It Up:
- First, tuck the bottom edge of the rice paper over the filling.
- Then, fold in the sides and roll it upwards, keeping the wrap tight and secure, like rolling a burrito.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, water, and chili flakes until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
- Serve: Arrange the salad rolls on a plate with the peanut dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy them fresh!
Tips for these easy and fresh salad rolls:
- You can customize the filling with any crunchy veggies you like or even add fruit like mango slices for a sweet twist.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, as the rice paper can harden if stored for too long.
