Spring rolls are a light and refreshing dish that makes use of vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, all wrapped up in a delicate rice paper. Perfect for a warm day or as a starter, these rolls are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Rice paper wrappers are the delicate canvases that hold all the goodness together. They soften easily in warm water and have a neutral taste, letting the filling shine.
Carrots add a sweet crunch, while red cabbage offers a pop of color and slight earthiness. Both are rich in vitamins and fiber.
Bean sprouts bring a mild flavor and refreshing crunch, while cucumber adds coolness and texture.
Cilantro and mint leaves provide a burst of fresh, herbal notes that lift the entire flavor profile.
Avocado offers creaminess, balancing the crisp textures with its buttery smoothness.
The dipping sauce combines soy sauce for umami, rice vinegar for tang, sesame oil for nuttiness, honey for sweetness, and a kick of flavor from garlic and ginger.
These spring rolls pair wonderfully with a chilled Asian-inspired salad or a bowl of miso soup. For a refreshing drink, try serving them with a glass of iced green tea or a light sake.
First, prepare all your vegetables. Shred the carrots and cabbage, julienne the cucumber, and slice the avocado. This prep work makes assembly faster and ensures everything is ready when it’s time to roll.
Next, fill a large bowl with warm water. You’ll dip each rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds until it’s just soft. Be careful not to leave it too long, or it might tear during assembly.
With your softened wrapper on a flat surface, arrange a small bit of each vegetable, a sprinkle of cilantro and mint leaves, avocado slices, and some green onions on the lower third of the wrapper. Try not to overfill, or rolling will become tricky.
To roll, fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom to the top, keeping it tight but gentle. This technique keeps everything snug and prevents spilling.
For the dipping sauce, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Adjust to taste if you prefer a bit more sweetness or tang.
Finally, slice each roll in half with a sharp knife and serve them with the dipping sauce on the side for an inviting presentation.