These Easy Fresh Summer Spring Rolls are like little flavor-packed bundles of joy! Filled with fresh veggies, herbs, and your choice of protein, they are refreshing and light.
If you haven’t tried rolling these yourself, you are in for a fun time! I love to dip them in a tangy peanut sauce—it’s the best part! Perfect for warm days or any time you crave something fresh.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are essential for spring rolls, but if you can’t find them, look for wheat-based wraps, though they won’t be gluten-free. Always check labels for dietary preferences.
Rice Vermicelli Noodles: These noodles add a nice texture, but if unavailable, quinoa or glass noodles work as alternatives. I often use leftover rice as a quick substitute, too!
Chicken: I love using chicken for protein, but tofu or shrimp is great if you prefer seafood or are vegetarian. Grilled veggies are also a delicious option!
Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro bring a fresh taste, but if you dislike these herbs, try parsley or leave them out entirely. The rolls will still be tasty!
How Do I Roll Spring Rolls Without Breaking Them?
Rolling spring rolls can seem tricky, but with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it! The key is the rice paper’s softness and your technique.
- Start by dipping the rice paper until it’s soft but still slightly firm; it will continue to soften as you roll.
- Don’t overfill the wrapper to avoid tearing. A few bites of filling yield the best results!
- Fold sides over the filling first, then tuck the bottom edge up and roll tightly without squeezing too hard to prevent breaking.
Remember, practice makes perfect! If a few roll breaks, don’t worry—they’ll still taste great. Enjoy!
Easy Fresh Summer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned or cut into thin sticks
- 1 head butter lettuce or green leaf lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced into strips (can substitute with tofu for vegetarian)
- Fresh herbs (optional): mint, cilantro, or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, with no cooking required (unless you’re cooking chicken or tofu). You’ll spend a little time prepping the ingredients and rolling the spring rolls, and then they’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Noodles:
Start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Prepare Your Veggies:
Next, get your vegetables ready! Shred the carrot, julienne the cucumber, and separate the lettuce leaves so they are ready to use. If you’re using fresh herbs, give them a wash and pat them dry.
3. Soften the Rice Paper:
Fill a large shallow dish or pie pan with warm water. Take one rice paper wrapper and dip it into the water for about 10-15 seconds until it’s soft but still slightly firm. It will soften more once you start rolling.
4. Assemble the Spring Roll:
Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean, damp kitchen towel or cutting board. Place a leaf of lettuce in the middle of the wrapper. Then, add a small handful of rice noodles on top of the lettuce.
5. Add Fillings:
Arrange the shredded carrot, cucumber sticks, chicken strips (or tofu), and any fresh herbs on top of the noodles for extra flavor.
6. Roll It Up:
Now, fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling. Tightly roll it from the bottom up to form a neat roll. Don’t squeeze too hard to avoid tearing the wrapper.
7. Repeat the Process:
Continue this process with the remaining wrappers and ingredients until you’ve made enough spring rolls.
8. Slice and Serve:
Once you’ve rolled them all, slice the rolls in half diagonally and serve fresh. They are delicious with a dipping sauce like peanut sauce or hoisin sauce.
Enjoy these crisp, light, and healthy summer spring rolls as a perfect snack or meal on a warm day!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Summer Spring Rolls
Can I Use Different Proteins?
Absolutely! While shredded chicken is a popular choice, you can easily substitute it with tofu, shrimp, or even cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just make sure any proteins are chopped into manageable strips for easy rolling!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover spring rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To help prevent them from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper. Reheat them gently in a skillet or enjoy them cold!
What’s the Best Way to Soften Rice Paper Wrappers?
Soften each rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until it’s pliable but still slightly firm. Don’t over-soak, or they may tear. If they do soften too much, let them sit for a moment—they will firm up as you roll.
Can I Make These Spring Rolls in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just roll the spring rolls right before serving for the freshest taste and best texture!
