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Fresh & Healthy Vegetable Spring Rolls with Irresistible Almond Dipping Sauce

These Vegetable Spring Rolls are a vibrant, refreshing, and incredibly delicious addition to any meal, whether you’re planning an Asian-inspired dinner or need a fantastic appetizer for your next summer gathering. Forget complicated cooking – with this recipe, it’s as simple as chop, roll, and serve! You’ll be amazed at how easily these fresh, crisp rolls come together, bursting with flavor and color.

The Magic of Homemade Vegetable Spring Rolls

There’s a saying, “the tone makes the music.” And if ever there were a food perfectly described by that saying, it’s these delightful Vegetable Spring Rolls. On their own, a pile of chopped vegetables might not immediately entice everyone. But when you artfully roll those colorful, crisp ingredients into delicate rice paper wrappers and serve them with an unbelievably delicious dipping sauce, something magical happens. That simple medley of vegetables transforms into a crave-worthy masterpiece, perfect for serving as a light meal or a show-stopping vegetarian appetizer. Trust us, we’re not exaggerating!

Homemade fresh spring rolls offer an incredible balance of flavors and textures. The crunch of fresh carrots and bell peppers, the creaminess of avocado, the subtle sweetness of mango, and the refreshing aroma of mint and basil all come together in a symphony of taste. Unlike their fried counterparts, these fresh spring rolls are incredibly light and healthy, making them an ideal choice for a wholesome meal or a guilt-free snack. Plus, making them yourself means you control every ingredient, ensuring peak freshness and quality.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Vegetable Spring Rolls

To create these fresh and vibrant spring rolls, you’ll need a selection of crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. The beauty of these rolls lies in their versatility, so feel free to adapt the fillings based on what’s fresh and available.

For the Spring Rolls:

2 large carrots: Julienne them for a delightful crunch and beautiful orange color.
1 red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, vibrant pop of color and crisp texture.
1 avocado: Provides a creamy, rich counterpoint to the crunchy vegetables.
1 mango: A touch of sweetness and tropical flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
½ cucumber: Offers a refreshing, cool crunch.
½ jalapeno: Finely minced, it introduces a subtle kick. Adjust to your spice preference!
2 cups arugula: Peppery and fresh, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
½ cup fresh basil: Its sweet, aromatic notes are essential for that authentic fresh spring roll taste.
½ cup fresh mint: Provides a wonderfully cooling and refreshing element.
6 to 8 rice paper spring roll wrappers: These are the key! They become soft and pliable when dipped in water, ready to hold all your delicious fillings.

For the Irresistible Dipping Sauce:

The dipping sauce is just as important as the rolls themselves. This recipe features an ultra-simple yet incredibly flavorful almond-based sauce that comes together in minutes. It’s so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

½ cup salted roasted almonds: Provides a rich, nutty base and a hint of saltiness.
½ cup canned coconut milk: Creates a creamy texture and a subtle tropical undertone.
1 Tbsp lime juice: Adds a bright, tangy zest that cuts through the richness.
1 Tbsp soy sauce: Delivers umami depth and savory notes. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
1 Tbsp honey: Balances the flavors with a touch of natural sweetness. (For a strictly vegan sauce, use maple syrup or agave nectar.)
3 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic is crucial for a pungent, aromatic kick.

Helpful Kitchen Tools for Easy Rolling

While you don’t need many specialized tools for spring rolls, a few items can make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

Blender: Essential for whipping up the smooth, creamy dipping sauce in no time.
Wooden cutting board: Provides a stable, slightly absorbent surface that’s ideal for rolling delicate rice paper.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife is key for thinly slicing all your vegetables into uniform, manageable strips.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts, especially for the sauce.

Mastering the Almond Dipping Sauce

The secret to truly crave-worthy spring rolls often lies in the dipping sauce, and this almond-based creation is no exception. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, nutty, tangy, and savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, all brought together in your blender in just a few minutes. The salted roasted almonds provide a fantastic depth, while coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle richness. Fresh lime juice brightens the whole concoction, and soy sauce brings umami. Honey (or a vegan alternative) balances the tang, and fresh garlic gives it that essential aromatic punch. Once you taste this, you’ll want to pair it with everything from grilled chicken to salads!

Step-by-Step Guide to Rolling Perfect Spring Rolls

If you’ve never made your own spring rolls before, don’t worry – it’s much easier than you think! The key is in the preparation and a gentle touch. Follow these steps for perfectly rolled, beautiful spring rolls every time:

Prepare Your Fillings: Start by thinly slicing all your vegetable fillings into long, thin strips. This julienne cut ensures even distribution and makes the rolls easier to bite into. We’re using carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, jalapeno, avocado, and a bit of mango. Remember, this is where you can get creative – feel free to throw in whatever crunchy veggie or fresh herb you have on hand, like purple cabbage, bean sprouts, or cilantro. Arrange all your prepared ingredients neatly on a platter or cutting board near your workspace.
Set Up Your Rolling Station: You’ll need a shallow dish (a pie plate works well) filled with warm water. Also, prepare a clean, dampened surface for rolling. A wooden cutting board is excellent because it offers a slight grip, preventing the softened rice paper from sticking too much. Have a plate ready for your finished rolls, and a damp paper towel to cover them.
Soften the Rice Paper: Working one at a time, gently place a piece of rice paper into the warm water. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable. Avoid oversoaking, as it can make the paper too sticky and prone to tearing. It should still have a little firmness when you remove it, as it will continue to soften as you work.
Assemble the Roll: Carefully transfer the softened rice paper to your dampened rolling surface. It will be delicate, so handle it with care. Place a small handful of your chosen fillings in a long, narrow heap across the middle of the rice paper, leaving about 2 inches clear on the sides. Don’t overfill! Less is more for beginners.
Fold and Roll: First, fold the bottom edge of the rice paper up and over your pile of fillings, tucking it in snugly. Next, fold in the two sides of the rice paper towards the center. Finally, starting from the bottom, tightly roll the entire package upwards, similar to how you’d roll a burrito. Aim for a firm, compact roll, but be gentle to avoid tearing. The rice paper will stick to itself, sealing the roll.
Store and Serve: Transfer your finished spring roll to a plate. To prevent them from drying out or sticking to each other, cover them with a damp paper towel. Continue rolling the remaining spring rolls. Serve them immediately with the delicious almond dipping sauce, or keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours. For a prettier presentation, you can slice them in half diagonally before serving.

Customizing Your Spring Rolls: Variations & Serving Ideas

One of the best things about fresh spring rolls is how endlessly customizable they are! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and sauces to suit your taste or what you have available.

Delicious Variations:

Add Protein: For a heartier roll, add cooked shrimp, thinly sliced grilled chicken, or pan-fried tofu. Marinated tempeh or shredded duck are also fantastic options.
More Veggies: Incorporate shredded red cabbage, bean sprouts, bell peppers of different colors, edamame, or even blanched asparagus.
Herb Power: Beyond basil and mint, try fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or even a hint of dill for a unique twist.
Noodle Fillings: Cooked vermicelli rice noodles can add a satisfying texture and make the rolls more substantial, turning them into a full meal.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of jalapeno or add a dash of sriracha to your dipping sauce for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions:

Appetizer Extravaganza: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any gathering. Arrange them beautifully on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center.
Light Lunch or Dinner: A few spring rolls make for a satisfying, healthy, and low-calorie meal, especially when paired with a side salad.
Meal Prep Dream: Prepare a batch on Sunday for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep them covered with a damp paper towel in an airtight container to prevent drying.
Asian-Inspired Feast: Serve alongside other Asian dishes like stir-fries, noodle bowls, or grilled skewers for a complete and diverse spread.

Hungry for More Spring Roll Recipes? Try These:

Mexican Style Summer Rolls
Rainbow Spring Rolls
Thai Green Curry Spring Rolls
Shrimp Spring Rolls

Vegetable Spring Rolls

These Vegetable Spring Rolls make such a fresh and delicious addition to your Asian-inspired dinner menu. Just chop, roll, and serve!

5 from 2 votes

IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!

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Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Chinese, Vietnamese

Servings: 8 rolls

30 mins

Calories: 166

Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

Spring Rolls

2 large carrots
1 red bell pepper
1 avocado
1 mango
½ cucumber
½ jalapeno
2 cups arugula
½ cup fresh basil
½ cup fresh mint
6 to 8 rice paper spring roll wrappers

Sauce

½ cup salted roasted almonds
½ cup canned coconut milk
1 Tbsp lime juice
1 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp honey
3 cloves garlic

Instructions

Combine all “Sauce” ingredients in a blender until smooth.
Thinly slice all veggies and arrange near your work space.
Fill a shallow dish with hot water. Working one at a time, gently place a rice paper in the hot water for about 15 seconds, or until soft and pliable. Move the paper to a damp surface. Stack veggies and herbs on the rice paper in a long narrow row, leaving about 2 inches on either side. Fold the sides of the rice paper over the mound, then gently roll.
Cover finished spring rolls in a damp paper towel until ready to eat. Serve with almond butter dipping sauce, optionally sliced in half to serve.

Nutrition

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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.