Why You’ll Love Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying, these spring rolls deliver. They combine crunchy vegetables, fragrant herbs, and soft noodles in every bite. The peanut sauce adds a rich, savory contrast that boosts the overall taste. Plus, they’re customizable — you can swap or add fillings based on what you like.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spring Rolls
2 ounces rice vermicelli or brown rice noodles
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup torn butter lettuce, ribs removed
1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage
2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks
2 Persian mini cucumbers or 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
2 medium jalapeños, ribs and seeds removed and thinly sliced
¼ cup thinly sliced green onions
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh mint
8 sheets rice paper (spring roll wrappers)
Peanut Sauce
⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons reduced‑sodium tamari or soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
2–3 tablespoons water, as needed to thin
Directions
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Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the rice noodles according to the package directions until just tender, then drain and rinse under cool water. Toss with the sesame oil and salt in a bowl and set aside.
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Prepare your work area with a shallow bowl of warm water and a clean towel. Have all your vegetables and herbs within reach.
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Dip one rice paper sheet into the warm water for about 20 seconds or until it becomes pliable. Lay it flat on the towel.
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Place lettuce on the lower third of the wrapper, then add a small handful of noodles, cabbage, carrot, cucumber, jalapeño, and herbs.
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Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll upward until sealed like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
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To make the peanut sauce, whisk together peanut butter, rice vinegar, tamari, honey, sesame oil, and garlic. Add water as needed until the sauce reaches a smooth, dippable consistency.
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Serve the spring rolls whole or sliced in half with the peanut sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 8 spring rolls.
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Make them gluten-free by using certified gluten-free noodles and tamari.
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Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the recipe vegan.
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Add or substitute fillings like bell peppers, bean sprouts, avocado, or cooked shrimp for extra flavor.
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Swap or mix in herbs like basil or Thai basil for a different aroma and taste.
Storage/Reheating
Fresh spring rolls are best eaten soon after making them. If you must store them, wrap them individually in damp paper towels and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the peanut sauce in a separate container. Because the rice paper can dry out, reheating isn’t recommended — instead, enjoy cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How do I keep rice paper wrappers from tearing?
Make sure you soak them just until pliable and work on a damp towel so they don’t stick and tear easily.
Can I add protein to these spring rolls?
Yes — cooked shrimp, tofu, or chicken strips work well if you want more protein.
What herbs should I use?
Fresh cilantro and mint are classic, but you can also use basil or Thai basil.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the filling and sauce ahead, but assemble the rolls just before serving to keep them from drying out.
How do I serve these at a party?
Slice them in half and arrange on a platter with the peanut sauce in a bowl for dipping.
Are these suitable for vegans?
Yes — simply use maple syrup instead of honey in the sauce.
What dipping sauces pair well with spring rolls?
Peanut sauce is classic, but you could also serve sesame‑ginger or a soy‑lime dipping sauce.
Is this recipe gluten‑free?
Yes, if you use gluten‑free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Why are my rolls chewy?
This can happen if the rice paper is too wet or wrapped too tightly. Try slightly warm water and don’t oversoak.
Can I freeze these?
Freezing is not recommended because the rice paper becomes soggy and loses texture when thawed.
Conclusion
These fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce are a delicious, colorful, and healthy recipe that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. With simple, fresh ingredients and a flavorful dipping sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and fun to make. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and customize them to suit your taste!
