Easy Spring Roll with Veggies

Name: Easy Spring Roll with Veggies
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 rolls
Ingredients: 8 rice paper wrappers; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cucumber, julienned; 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 1 avocado, sliced; Soy sauce or peanut sauce for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Dish Recipes

I absolutely love making Easy Spring Rolls with Veggies, especially during those warm spring days. There's something refreshing about the crunchy vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper. This recipe has become a go-to for gatherings since everyone can customize their rolls. Plus, the fresh herbs give it a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Preparing these rolls is surprisingly quick - you can whip them up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a healthy snack or a light meal. Let's dive into the deliciousness together!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:49:27.067Z

When I first made these Easy Spring Rolls, it was all about experimenting with fresh ingredients. I was a bit nervous, but as soon as I rolled the first one, I was hooked. The best part? You can mix and match veggies based on what's in season, which keeps things interesting and delicious. A tip I learned is to soak the rice paper just long enough – too long makes it flimsy!

These rolls not only taste fantastic but also look vibrant on the plate. I remember serving them to friends for the first time, and everyone was amazed at how simple yet elegant they are. It’s incredibly satisfying to see people enjoy something so fresh and colorful. Plus, pairing them with a spicy peanut sauce elevates their flavor profile dramatically.

Why You Will Love These Spring Rolls
Fresh and vibrant flavors that celebrate spring vegetables
Customizable with your favorite ingredients or leftovers
Quick to prepare for a healthy snack or light meal

Choosing the Right Rice Paper

When it comes to spring rolls, the type of rice paper you choose plays a crucial role in the final texture. Look for thin, flexible rice paper wrappers that are pliable enough to fold without tearing. Brands like Banh Trang produce excellent options that provide a subtle chew and a slightly glossy finish once hydrated. Avoid thicker wrappers as they can become chewy rather than soft and delicate, which enhances the overall eating experience.

To prepare the rice paper, using warm water is essential. Not only does it allow the wrapper to soften evenly, but it also helps prevent the rice paper from sticking to itself during the rolling process. Soak each piece for about 10-15 seconds; watch for a change in texture where it becomes flexible and slightly sticky. Too long in the water can lead to tearing and an unusable wrapper.

Flavor and Freshness with Herbs

Incorporating fresh herbs like mint and basil is what truly elevates these spring rolls. Not only do they add vibrant flavor, but they also provide a refreshing contrast to the crunch of the veggies. I recommend using both mint and basil for a balanced taste; mint brings a coolness, while basil adds a layer of aromatic depth. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding cilantro or even Thai basil for a different twist on flavor.

When preparing the herbs, make sure to wash and pat them dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the wrappers soggy. A simple method is to use a salad spinner to remove water quickly. I find that torn leaves can infuse more flavor into the roll, so feel free to tear rather than chop them for a more rustic approach.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

If you're planning to serve these spring rolls later, they can be made ahead of time. Once rolled, store them in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels to keep the wrappers from drying out. This method maintains their fresh texture for up to 2-3 hours in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep them in a single layer to avoid sticking.

However, do not prepare the rolls too far in advance, as the rice paper can lose its appealing texture and become gummy. Alternatively, you can prep all your ingredients ahead of time—chop the vegetables and herbs a few hours early, then let everyone assemble their rolls just before serving. This way, each person can customize their spring roll according to preferences, making it an interactive and enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make delightful spring rolls!

Spring Roll Ingredients

8 rice paper wrappers
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cucumber, julienned
1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1 avocado, sliced
Soy sauce or peanut sauce for dipping

Make sure to prepare all your veggies before wrapping!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your spring rolls.

Prepare the Rice Paper

Fill a large bowl with warm water and soak one rice paper wrapper for about 10-15 seconds. Make sure it's pliable but not overly soft.

Fill the Wrapper

Lay the soaked rice paper on a clean surface. In the center, layer a small handful of shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce, mint, basil, and a few avocado slices.

Roll it Up

Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then tightly roll it from the bottom upwards, ensuring the filling is secure inside.

Serve

Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling. Serve the spring rolls with soy sauce or peanut sauce on the side.

Enjoy your colorful and healthy spring rolls!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different sauces or add protein like shrimp or tofu for extra flavors. Keep the rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out as you work.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Spring Rolls are versatile when it comes to serving. Besides the classic soy sauce or peanut sauce for dipping, consider a splash of hoisin sauce mixed with a hint of chili for a sweet and spicy kick. You could also experiment with a sesame-based dip that complements the fresh flavors of the rolls. I find that a little drizzle of fresh lime juice over the rolls right before serving brightens everything up beautifully.

You can also serve these spring rolls as part of a larger meal. They pair wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes, such as stir-fried noodles or grilled fish. Present them alongside some homemade sushi rolls for an impressive appetizer platter at your next gathering.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on what you have on hand. For a heartier option, add cooked shrimp, tofu, or even shredded chicken to your rolls. These proteins can provide a satisfying bite and elevate the nutritional content of the meal. Just ensure that if you're using leftovers, they are chilled before rolling to maintain the wrapper's integrity.

If you're looking for a twist, think about adding fruits like mango or pineapple slices for a sweet contrast to the vegetables. This fruity option can delight your taste buds, especially in warmer months when you desire something lighter and more refreshing.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your rice paper tears easily, it could be too soft or too dry. Make sure the water isn't too hot, as it can overly soften the wrappers. If the wrappers do tear while rolling, don’t despair! Simply use another wrapper to hold in the filling—it's a common situation that can be easily fixed.

Additionally, if your rolls are falling apart when picked up, it might be due to overfilling. Stick to about a small handful of each veggie to ensure a snug fit that holds together. Practice rolling them tighter as you become more comfortable, as a tighter roll will help maintain structure and keep everything intact during serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make spring rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered with a damp cloth to maintain moisture.

→ What can I substitute for rice papers?

If you can't find rice paper, you can use thin tortillas or leaves of large greens like lettuce or collard greens.

→ How can I add protein to my spring rolls?

You can add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu for extra protein. Just ensure they are cut into thin pieces for easy rolling.

→ Are spring rolls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use rice paper and a gluten-free dipping sauce.