Zesty Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe

Summer heat calls for light, refreshing Vietnamese rice paper rolls that burst with vibrant flavors and crisp textures.

These delicate wraps pack a delightful punch of fresh herbs, tender proteins, and crunchy vegetables.

Crafted with translucent rice paper, each roll becomes a colorful canvas of culinary artistry.

Soft shrimp or grilled chicken nestles perfectly alongside crisp cucumber and fragrant mint leaves.

Dipped in a tangy peanut sauce, these rolls transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Prepare to wow your taste buds with this simple yet spectacular Vietnamese classic that promises a cool, satisfying dining experience.

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls Why They’re Fresh

• Whip up these delightful rolls in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy home cooks who want a fresh, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Swap prawns for chicken, tofu, or any protein you love, allowing endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and light rice paper, these rolls offer a nutritious meal that feels indulgent but keeps you feeling light and energized.
• Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners, these colorful rolls are sure to impress guests with their vibrant appearance and delectable flavor combination.

Ingredients for Classic Spring Rolls

• Prawns: Fresh seafood that provides the main protein for these Vietnamese rice paper rolls.
• Mint Leaves: Fragrant herb that adds a refreshing flavor to the rolls.

• Rice Paper: Delicate translucent wrapper that holds the roll together.
• Vermicelli Noodles: Thin rice noodles that add texture and substance to the rolls.
• Lettuce: Crisp green wrapper that helps bundle the ingredients.

• Peanut Butter: Creamy base that creates a rich and smooth sauce.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and saltiness to the peanut sauce.
• Sprouts, Water: Supporting ingredients that provide extra crunch and moisture.
• Sugar, Chili Sauce: Ingredients that balance and enhance the peanut sauce flavor.

Tools for Vietnamese Spring Roll Success

• Large Bowl: For soaking vermicelli noodles and mixing ingredients.
• Cutting Board: To halve and devein prawns.
• Sharp Knife: For precise cutting of prawns and herbs.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: To quickly warm and mix peanut sauce.
• Wide Shallow Dish: For dipping rice paper in warm water.
• Clean Kitchen Towel: To drain noodles and wipe work surface.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate sauce ingredient measurements.

Steps to Roll the Perfect Rice Paper Rolls

Step 1: Craft Peanut Sauce Wonderland

Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and hot water in a small bowl.

Zap in the microwave for 30 seconds, then whisk until the mixture transforms into a silky, smooth liquid that’ll make your taste buds dance.

• Peanut butter
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Honey
• Hot water

Step 2: Wake Up Vermicelli Noodles

Submerge rice noodles in warm water, letting them soften and become wonderfully pliable.

After 2 minutes, drain and set aside, ready for their starring role.

Step 3: Prepare Succulent Seafood

Gently slice prawns in half lengthwise, removing the dark vein.

Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure maximum flavor absorption.

Step 4: Create Veggie Bundles

Layer fresh mint leaves, bean sprouts, and julienned carrots into crisp lettuce leaves.

This colorful package will be the heart of your spring rolls.

• Fresh mint leaves
• Bean sprouts
• Julienned carrots
• Lettuce leaves

Step 5: Transform Rice Paper

Dip two rice paper sheets simultaneously into warm water for a quick 2-second bath.

Let excess water drip off, creating a soft, translucent wrapper.

Step 6: Artfully Arrange Ingredients

Position prawns and mint leaves strategically on the top third of the moistened rice paper.

Their placement will set the stage for rolling perfection.

Step 7: Bundle Veggie Goodness

Nestle your prepared lettuce bundle right in the center of the rice paper, creating a gorgeous foundation for your roll.

Step 8: Master the Rolling Technique

Fold the bottom edge up and over the filling.

Gently tuck in the sides, then continue rolling upward with confident, tight movements.

Each roll should feel like a culinary embrace.

Step 9: Present Your Culinary Masterpiece

Arrange rolls on a beautiful platter, accompanied by the luscious peanut sauce.

Garnish with additional herbs for an extra touch of elegance.

Spring Roll Assembly Tips

• Wet rice paper on a damp, clean kitchen towel to avoid tearing and ensure smooth rolling.
• Add fresh herbs like Thai basil or cilantro for extra aromatic depth and authentic Vietnamese taste.
• Replace prawns with tofu, chicken, or beef for a versatile protein option that suits different dietary preferences.
• Cover finished rolls with a damp cloth to prevent drying out and maintain softness before serving.
• Adjust sauce consistency by adding more water or peanut butter to achieve your desired thickness and taste.

Tasty Ways to Mix Up Rice Paper Rolls

• Vegan Veggie Rolls: Replace prawns with tofu, tempeh, or grilled eggplant strips for a plant-based protein option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use rice paper and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari sauce.
• Spicy Fusion Rolls: Add sriracha or chili sauce to peanut mixture, include jalapeño slices for extra heat.
• Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Version: Skip rice paper, use large lettuce leaves as wrap instead, fill with same ingredients for a lighter meal.

Serving Up Vietnamese Spring Rolls at Home

• Fresh Picnic Platter: Arrange rolls beautifully on a wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around, creating a vibrant and inviting presentation.
• Dipping Delights: Serve peanut sauce in small individual bowls for each guest, allowing personalized dipping experiences with extra chopped peanuts sprinkled on top.
• Party Appetizer Style: Cut rolls diagonally into bite-sized pieces, perfect for cocktail parties or casual gatherings, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
• Colorful Side Companions: Garnish plate with extra fresh mint leaves, cucumber slices, and lime wedges to enhance visual appeal and provide additional flavor options.

Storing Rice Paper Rolls to Keep Them Soft

• Store rolls wrapped in damp paper towel inside an airtight container for 1-2 days. Keep prawns and herbs fresh by preventing direct contact with moisture.
• Separate rolls with parchment paper, place in freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 1 month. Avoid freezing with sauce to maintain texture.
• Warm rolls on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check temperature to prevent rubbery texture. Add fresh herbs after reheating for crisp flavor.
• Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before eating. Allow rolls to reach room temperature naturally. Refresh with extra mint leaves for vibrant taste.

FAQs

• What are rice paper rolls?

Thin, translucent wraps filled with fresh ingredients like prawns, herbs, vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, typically served cold and popular in Vietnamese cuisine.

• Are these rolls healthy?

Absolutely! They’re packed with lean protein from prawns, fresh vegetables, minimal oil, and offer a nutritious, low-calorie meal option with balanced nutrients.

• Can I make these rolls vegetarian?

Yes, easily! Replace prawns with tofu, add more vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers to create a delicious vegetarian version.

• How difficult are these to make?

Beginner-friendly with some practice. The key is gentle rice paper handling and tight rolling technique, which becomes easier after a few attempts.

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls (Spring Rolls) Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delightful Vietnamese rice paper rolls showcase fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and tender proteins wrapped in translucent rice paper. Simple ingredients create a light, refreshing appetizer perfect for summer gatherings or quick meals you’ll savor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein and Seafood:

• 11 prawns, cooked
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Noodles and Vegetables:

• 50 grams (1.8 ounces) dried vermicelli noodles
• 7 soft lettuce leaves
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 14 mint leaves

Wrappers and Sauce Ingredients:

• 7–14 rice paper sheets (22 centimeters/8.5 inches)
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon chili paste (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Whisk peanut sauce ingredients together, heat in microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
2. Submerge rice vermicelli in warm water for precisely 2 minutes, then thoroughly drain in a colander.
3. Carefully slice prawns lengthwise and meticulously remove dark digestive tract.
4. Create compact bundles by wrapping vermicelli and bean sprouts within crisp lettuce leaves.
5. Simultaneously dip two delicate rice paper sheets into warm water for a quick 2-second immersion.
6. Position halved prawns and fresh mint leaves strategically on the upper third of moistened rice paper.
7. Gently place prepared lettuce bundle in the central region of the rice paper.
8. Fold rice paper sides inward, then roll from bottom edge upward with firm, smooth pressure to create a tight, compact package.
9. Present rolls alongside prepared peanut sauce for dipping, ensuring sauce is at room temperature for optimal flavor absorption.

Notes

• Customize the heat level by adjusting chili sauce in the peanut dipping sauce for a personalized spice experience.
• Keep rice paper rolls fresh by covering with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out during preparation.
• Swap prawns with tofu or grilled chicken for vegetarian or alternative protein options that suit different dietary preferences.
• Prepare ingredients in advance and set up a rolling station for quick and efficient assembly, making this a fun group cooking activity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Lunch
• Method: Rolling
• Cuisine: Vietnamese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 120mg