These shrimp spring rolls are fresh, crunchy, and filled with tasty goodies! Wrapped in soft rice paper, they are served with a yummy peanut sauce that makes every bite delightful!
Honestly, these rolls are perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. I love dipping them in that peanut sauce—it’s hard to eat just one! Who’s with me on that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large cooked shrimp makes life easy. If you prefer a different protein, try cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also use shrimp alternatives like bay shrimp or even crab stick if you want a twist.
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are essential for wrapping. If you can’t find them, try lettuce leaves as a lower-carb alternative. Just be cautious, as they require a different wrapping technique.
Vermicelli Noodles: These noodles give a nice texture. You can swap them with other noodles, like rice noodles or soba, but cook them according to package instructions. Zucchini noodles make a great gluten-free choice.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, mint, and basil create lovely flavors. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works too. Adjust the quantities of herbs according to your taste!
Peanut Butter: For those with nut allergies, sun butter or tahini can work as substitutes. If a lighter dip is desired, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of peanut butter for creaminess.
How Do You Roll Spring Rolls Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling spring rolls can be tricky, but with some practice, you’ll get it right! Here’s a step-by-step guide for success:
- Wet the rice paper briefly in warm water (10-15 seconds) until it’s soft but not overly mushy.
- Keep the toppings small and placed toward the bottom third of the roll for easier wrapping.
- Fold in the sides before rolling from the bottom upwards to keep everything secure.
- Don’t rush! Take your time to roll tightly without tearing the wrapper. If one breaks, it happens; just try again!
Enjoy your spring rolls customized just the way you like them! Happy rolling!
How to Make Shrimp Spring Rolls With Peanut Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Spring Rolls:
- 12 large cooked shrimp, halved lengthwise
- 8 rice paper wrappers (8-inch diameter)
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 cup fresh lettuce leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For The Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time. You will spend the first part preparing the filling ingredients and making the peanut sauce, then assembling the spring rolls. They are best served fresh, so get ready to enjoy your tasty creation right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles:
Start by soaking or cooking the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside for later assembly.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:
Next, wash and julienne the carrot and cucumber. Tear the lettuce leaves into smaller pieces. Rinse the cilantro, mint, and basil leaves, and pat them dry gently with a paper towel.
3. Prepare the Shrimp:
If your shrimp isn’t already cooked, boil or steam them until they turn opaque and pink, then allow them to cool. Once cooled, slice each shrimp in half lengthwise to make them easier to roll in the spring rolls.
4. Soften the Rice Paper:
Take a large shallow dish or pan and fill it with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft but still pliable. Carefully remove it from the water and place it flat on a clean, damp kitchen towel or cutting board.
5. Assemble the Rolls:
On the bottom third of the softened rice paper, place 2-3 shrimp halves with the curved side facing up for a nice display. Then add a small handful of vermicelli noodles, followed by some julienned carrot and cucumber, torn lettuce, and a few leaves each of cilantro, mint, and basil.
6. Roll Tightly:
Begin by folding the sides of the rice paper over the filling. Then, roll the paper from the bottom up, keeping all the ingredients snug inside as you go. Continue this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Make the Peanut Sauce:
While your rolls are resting, it’s time to make the peanut sauce! In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha (if you like some heat), minced garlic, lime juice, and warm water until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of water if you want a thinner consistency.
8. Serve:
Pour the delicious peanut sauce into a small dipping bowl and sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for garnish. Serve the shrimp spring rolls fresh with the peanut dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your healthy and tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking or assembling your spring rolls. A quick way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, you can boil or steam them until they are opaque and pink.
How Do I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
To store leftover spring rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that the rice paper may become soft if stored, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh if possible. The peanut sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I Make the Peanut Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the peanut sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, and feel free to adjust the consistency with a little warm water if it thickens up.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use in the Spring Rolls?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced bell peppers, avocados, or even radishes for extra crunch. Just make sure to julienne or slice them thinly for easy rolling. The key is to keep the filling light and fresh!
