These Summer Spring Rolls are fresh, colorful, and packed with good stuff! Wrapped in rice paper, they’re filled with crisp veggies, juicy shrimp, or tasty tofu, and served with a yummy dipping sauce.
Making these rolls is like a fun art project—a bit messy, but oh-so-worth it! I love to dip mine in peanut sauce for an extra flavor kick. Who knew healthy could be this tasty? 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are essential for spring rolls. If you can’t find them, look for rice wrappers labeled for fresh spring rolls or use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option instead.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken is great, but you could swap it for tofu if you want a vegetarian version. Shrimp or cooked pork also works well if you prefer seafood or meat options.
Rice Vermicelli Noodles: This adds texture to the rolls. If you need a gluten-free option, choose rice noodles labeled as gluten-free. Otherwise, you can use any cooked noodle you enjoy, like soba or even zucchini noodles.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro add a burst of flavor! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, basil could be a good choice. Don’t skip the herbs—they really elevate the rolls!
How Do I Soften Rice Paper Wrappers Without Ruining Them?
Softening rice paper can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Dip the rice paper in warm water for about 10-15 seconds. You want it soft but not too mushy, as it will continue to soften after you remove it from the water. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use a shallow dish for easy dipping.
- Try dipping one at a time to control softness.
- Don’t let the wrappers sit in water too long—remove them just as they start to feel flexible.
With a little practice, you’ll get a feel for it! Enjoy wrapping your delicious fillings and have fun with it!
How to Make Summer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spring Rolls:
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded (or sliced)
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 cup lettuce leaves (Boston or butter lettuce preferred)
- Fresh herbs (such as mint and cilantro)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- Peanut sauce
- Hoisin sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes prepping all the ingredients, then assembling the spring rolls, and finally you can enjoy your delicious creations right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
First things first! Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, let them cool down. While the noodles are cooling, shred or slice the cooked chicken. Then, julienne the carrot and cucumber into thin strips. Set aside your fresh herbs, ready to use!
2. Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers:
Take a shallow dish and fill it with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10-15 seconds. You want it to be soft and pliable, so don’t rush this step!
3. Assemble Your Spring Rolls:
Lay the softened rice paper wrapper on a clean, flat surface. In the center of the wrapper, start adding your fillings: lay down some lettuce, then a small handful of rice noodles, some julienned carrot and cucumber, a few pieces of chicken, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Don’t overfill, or it gets tricky to roll!
4. Roll It Up!
Now it’s time to roll! Fold the sides of the rice paper wrapper over your filling, then carefully roll it away from you, making sure to keep everything tight but gentle so the filling stays inside. Repeat this with the remaining ingredients until you have a lovely stack of spring rolls!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your fresh spring rolls are ready! Serve them immediately with your choice of dipping sauce, like peanut sauce or hoisin sauce, on the side. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!
Can I Use Different Proteins in These Spring Rolls?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even shredded pork. Just ensure any meat is fully cooked, and if using tofu, consider pan-frying it for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
To keep leftover spring rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If possible, place a damp paper towel in the container to prevent them from drying out!
Can I Make These Spring Rolls Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance and assemble the spring rolls a few hours before serving. Just wrap them in a damp cloth or parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container to keep them moist until you’re ready to serve!
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Best with Summer Spring Rolls?
Peanut sauce and hoisin sauce are classic choices that complement the fresh flavors nicely. You can also try a simple soy sauce or even a homemade dipping sauce made with lime juice, soy sauce, and a touch of honey for a zesty twist!
