Stepping into my kitchen, I’m greeted by a rainbow of fresh vegetables, each begging to be wrapped in delicate rice paper. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience. These spring rolls are not only healthy and vegetarian but also gluten-free when you opt for gluten-free soy sauce, making them an excellent choice for everyone at your table. With minimal prep time, they’re perfect for a light meal or a vibrant appetizer at your next gathering. Plus, you can customize these rolls with whatever fresh veggies you have on hand, ensuring that every bite is as unique as your cooking style. Ready to roll up some fun in the kitchen? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe!

Why Choose Vegetable Spring Rolls?

Irresistible freshness: These spring rolls burst with vibrant colors and crisp textures, making each bite a refreshing delight.
Versatile ingredients: Customize with whatever vegetables you have, from carrots to cucumbers, creating endless variations.
Simple preparation: With just a few steps, you can impress family and friends with your culinary skills.
Healthy indulgence: Packed with nutrients and healthy fats, they’re guilt-free and can be made gluten-free with the right soy sauce. Consider pairing them with a side of Thai Peanut Noodle for a complete meal!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect as an appetizer or light meal at gatherings, these rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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Vegetable Spring Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready to create a fresh and flavorful dish with these essential components!

For the Spring Rolls

Rice Paper Wrappers – Essential for wrapping the filling; use 8 to 10 depending on the number of rolls desired.
Green Leaf Lettuce – Provides a crisp base; substitute with any leafy green, such as romaine.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds aromatic flavor; can be substituted with Thai basil or mint.
Fresh Mint Leaves – Offers a refreshing taste and scent; substitute with additional basil if unavailable.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Contributes herbaceous notes; omit for a cilantro-free version or substitute with parsley.
Matchstick Carrots – Adds sweetness and crunch; can substitute with shredded bell peppers or zucchini.
Shredded Purple Cabbage – Provides color and crunch; replace with green cabbage if needed.
Red Bell Pepper – Sweet and crunchy; use any color bell pepper or additional carrots.
English Cucumber – Offers crispness; substitute with jicama slices for a crunch.
Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fats; no direct substitute, but omit if unavailable.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste.

For the Peanut Sauce

Peanut Butter (¼ cup) – For a creamy dipping sauce; substitute with tahini for a nut-free option.
Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce (4 teaspoons) – Adds umami; use tamari for gluten-free.
Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens flavor; substitute with lemon juice if needed.
Brown Sugar (2 teaspoons) – Balances flavors; use honey or maple syrup as an alternative.
Chili Garlic Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Adds a kick; can adjust quantity to taste or substitute with sriracha.
Freshly Grated Ginger (1 teaspoon) – Contributes zing; can use powdered ginger instead.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Soak Rice Paper Wrappers
Begin by filling a shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for 10–15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable; you’ll know it’s ready when it is slightly elastic and translucent. Carefully remove it from the water and lay it flat on a clean work surface to prepare for filling.

Step 2: Layer Your Ingredients
In the center of the soaked rice paper wrapper, layer a few leaves of green lettuce followed by fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro. Add matchstick carrots, shredded purple cabbage, thinly sliced red bell pepper, cucumber, and a few avocado slices. Be sure not to overfill; leaving a little space around the edges will make rolling easier.

Step 3: Season the Filling
Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper over the colorful filling to enhance the flavors. This step is crucial for a delectable bite! Take a moment to admire the vibrant mix of vegetables nestled within the rice paper wrapper—this is where the magic of Vegetable Spring Rolls begins.

Step 4: Roll the Spring Rolls
To create your spring rolls, start by folding the bottom edge of the wrapper up over the filling, tucking it in gently. Next, fold in the sides, making sure to secure the filling as you roll tightly from the bottom to the top. Aim for a snug seal, ensuring no filling escapes, and place the finished roll seam-side down on a plate.

Step 5: Store the Assembled Rolls
Once you’ve rolled your Vegetable Spring Rolls, cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out while you continue to make more. This small detail keeps the rolls moist and fresh, perfect for enjoying with creamy peanut sauce later!

Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, reduced sodium soy sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth, adjusting the consistency with water as needed. It should be creamy yet pourable, ready to complement your spring rolls.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your vibrant Vegetable Spring Rolls with the luscious peanut sauce on the side for dipping. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, so dig in right away to savor the crunchiness of the vegetables and the rich flavors of the dipping sauce. Enjoy a delightful experience that’s sure to impress your guests!

Expert Tips for Vegetable Spring Rolls

Don’t Over-soak: Ensure you soak the rice paper wrappers just until pliable, about 10-15 seconds. Over-soaking can make them tear easily.
Cover to Keep Fresh: Use damp paper towels to cover assembled rolls to prevent them from drying out, keeping your Vegetable Spring Rolls beautiful and fresh.
Customizable Fillings: Feel free to mix and match veggies based on your preference—zucchini, bean sprouts, or even a protein like shrimp can add extra flavor!
Balance Your Sauce: Taste and adjust the peanut sauce, especially the sweetness and spice levels, to suit your family’s palate. A bit more lime juice can enhance the flavor!
Rolling Technique: Roll tightly but gently; a snug roll keeps the ingredients in place while ensuring a delightful crunch with each bite.

What to Serve with Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls with Creamy Peanut Sauce

Creating a delightful dining experience goes beyond just the main dish; it’s about crafting a symphony of flavors that resonate with each other.

Crispy Edamame: These lightly salted, steamed soybeans add a pop of protein and delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the fresh rolls.
Chilled Miso Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of miso soup delivers umami depth while balancing the freshness of the spring rolls, creating a harmonious meal.
Sliced Mango Salad: A sweet and tangy mango salad brings brightness and an unexpected flavor twist that complements the peanut dipping sauce beautifully.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet, creamy rice dish enhances the Asian-inspired theme while providing a comforting base to your dish.
Peanut Noodle Salad: For a complementary textural contrast, try a light noodle salad tossed with peanut sauce; it echoes the flavors of the spring rolls while adding heartiness.
Green Tea: A soothing cup of green tea aids digestion, refreshing your palate after each bite and enriching the whole meal with its earthy notes.

These delightful pairings will elevate your fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce into an unforgettable culinary experience!

Vegetable Spring Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine! These spring rolls are highly adaptable, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Protein-Packed: Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy tofu for an extra boost of protein and heartiness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy sesame oil into the filling to elevate the heat level and give your rolls a zesty twist.
Crunchy Additions: Toss in crunchy water chestnuts or toasted peanuts for extra texture. These little surprises make each bite even more delightful.
Nut-Free Option: Use tahini instead of peanut butter for the sauce to cater to nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious dip.
Colorful Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by adding vibrant veggies like bell peppers, daikon radish, or even spiralized zucchini for a fun twist.
Fresh Herbs Galore: Experiment with different herbs; if you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or chives can provide a fresh flavor without the distinct taste of cilantro.
Sweet Twist: Swap out some of the brown sugar for a splash of honey or maple syrup for a hint of natural sweetness in your dipping sauce.
Zesty Lime Alternative: If you don’t have limes on hand, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor of your sauce just as effectively.

For a delightful sidekick with your spring rolls, consider pairing them with an irresistible Thai Peanut Chicken or a refreshing Thai Peanut Noodle. Enjoy the endless possibilities!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, fresh flavors any day of the week! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store them covered with damp paper towels in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. If prepping the peanut sauce ahead, it can be made up to one week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply pull the spring rolls from the fridge, cut them in half for a lovely presentation, and pair them with the creamy peanut sauce. This meal prep approach not only saves time but ensures you have a healthy, satisfying dish ready to go!

Storage Tips for Vegetable Spring Rolls

Refrigerator: Store assembled vegetable spring rolls in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Peanut Sauce Storage: Store any leftover peanut sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Stir well before serving to rejuvenate its creamy consistency.
Reheating Tips: While it’s best to enjoy spring rolls fresh, if you’ve refrigerated them, serve at room temperature or lightly steam them for a few seconds to soften without losing their crunch.

Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of rice paper is best for spring rolls?
I recommend using round rice paper wrappers, which are specifically made for spring rolls. They typically come in various sizes, so choose a diameter that suits your preferred roll size—usually around 8 to 10 inches is perfect for these Vegetable Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce.

How should I store leftover spring rolls?
Store assembled vegetable spring rolls in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels in the refrigerator. This method will keep them fresh for up to 3 days. It’s essential to ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze vegetable spring rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap each roll in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. However, remember that the texture may change slightly once thawed. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, or lightly steam them for a few seconds for the best texture.

What should I do if my rice paper wrapper tears?
If your rice paper wrapper tears during soaking or rolling, don’t worry! A simple fix is to use another wrapper to reinforce the broken one. Place the torn wrapper over a new one; the moistened surface will stick together, allowing you to roll as usual. Just be gentle and avoid over-soaking to prevent future tears.

Can I make vegetable spring rolls in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the vegetable spring rolls a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just be sure to cover them with damp paper towels or a damp cloth to keep them from drying out. The peanut sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to one week.

Are spring rolls safe for pets?
While the ingredients in vegetable spring rolls are generally safe for pets, be cautious with certain items like avocado and certain spices. It’s best to stick to plain vegetables like cucumbers and carrots if you’re considering sharing a little treat with your furry friend.