Wrapped in delicate rice paper, each roll is packed with crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and your choice of protein, all paired with a spicy dipping sauce. Perfect as a light snack or a flavorful starter!
If there’s one dish that instantly makes me feel like I have my life together (even when I absolutely do not), it’s fresh spring rolls. They’re colorful, light yet satisfying, and somehow feel both effortless and impressive at the same time. Plus, when paired with a bold, spicy peanut dipping sauce? Game. Over.
These fresh spring rolls are layered with crisp veggies, fragrant herbs, and a trio of proteins—salmon, shrimp, and chicken—so everyone gets exactly what they want. Whether you’re making them for a spring gathering, a light dinner, or a hands-on appetizer night with friends, this recipe is one I come back to again and again.
Why We Love This Recipe
There’s just something about fresh spring rolls that feels celebratory without being fussy. I love how customizable they are—everyone can build their own combination, and no two rolls ever look exactly the same.
They’re also perfect for entertaining because they look impressive, yet rely on simple prep rather than complicated cooking. Plus, that spicy peanut sauce? It’s the kind people hover around, “just one more dip,” until suddenly the bowl is empty.
Key Ingredients for Fresh Spring Rolls
Cucumber adds that cool, crisp crunch that keeps the rolls refreshing.
Carrots bring a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Red cabbage adds texture, color contrast, and a slight peppery bite.
Boston lettuce acts as a soft, fresh base that helps hold everything together.
Basil adds a sweet, almost floral freshness that screams spring.
Shiitake mushrooms bring an earthy, umami depth that balances the lighter veggies.
Cilantro adds brightness and that classic fresh spring roll flavor.
Salmon gives richness and a buttery texture that feels elevated but approachable.
Shrimp add a classic spring roll element with a clean, slightly sweet bite.
Chicken makes the rolls hearty and filling—perfect if serving these as a main.
Rice paper wraps are light, flexible, and let all those gorgeous ingredients shine through.
For the Sauce
- Peanut butter creates a creamy, rich base that clings beautifully to each bite.
- Soy sauce adds salty depth and umami.
- Sambal garlic chili sauce brings heat, garlic, and just enough attitude.
- Rice wine vinegar balances the richness with brightness and acidity.
- Brown sugar rounds everything out with a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic adds bold, savory flavor that builds complexity.
- Fresh ginger brings warmth and zing that keeps the sauce from feeling heavy.
- Water thins the sauce to that perfect, dip-able consistency.
Where can I purchase rice paper?
- Asian Grocery Stores: This is probably the most reliable place to find rice paper. An Asian market will have various sizes and brands, too.
- Supermarkets: Many larger supermarkets carry rice paper, especially those with well-stocked international or Asian food sections.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Walmart, or specialty Asian food suppliers offer rice paper and often provide a range of options in terms of brands and sizes.
- Health Food Stores: Some health food stores stock rice paper, particularly those that have a good selection of international or specialty diet items.
When shopping for rice paper, you may find it labeled as “spring roll wrappers” or “rice paper wrappers.” Make sure to check the ingredient list if you have specific dietary needs or preferences, as the composition can vary slightly between brands.
They come in different sizes, but I really love the 8 1/2 inch wrappers. They’re easier to work with because of their large size.
Click here to check out the short web story for this recipe!
How to Assemble Fresh Spring Rolls
First, prep all your ingredients. Trust me—this step makes the whole process feel calm and enjoyable instead of chaotic. Lay everything out in bowls so you can grab as you go.
Next, fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrap into the water for about 10–15 seconds, just until it softens. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Then, layer a piece of lettuce first, followed by a small amount of cucumber, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, herbs, and your choice of protein. Remember: less is more here.
Finally, fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up, burrito-style. Repeat with the remaining wraps.
Other Fresh veggies you can include:
Cucumber, sliced julienne
Shredded carrots
Red cabbage, shredded
Napa cabbage, shredded
Butter lettuce leaves
Shiitake mushrooms, cut julienne
Thin slices of Red Bell pepper
Bean sprouts
Fresh herbs you can include:
Fresh Basil
Thai Basil
Cilantro
Fresh Mint leaves
Green onions
Entertaining Tip
Turn this into a DIY spring roll board. Arrange all the fillings on a large platter, stack softened rice paper nearby, and place the peanut sauce front and center. It’s interactive, fun, and instantly makes your gathering feel elevated—without you being stuck in the kitchen all night.
How to make the homemade peanut sauce
To make the homemade peanut sauce, combine the following in a blender:
1 cup peanut butter ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
2 tablespoons Soy sauce⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons Sambal chili garlic sauce⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons rice vinegar⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons brown sugar⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
6 clove garlic ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
1/2 c water
Blend until smooth and place in a small bowl to dip spring rolls to your heart’s content!
Storage Instructions
Fresh spring rolls are best enjoyed the same day. However, if needed, you can store assembled rolls by wrapping them individually in damp paper towels and placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
The peanut dipping sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving, adding a splash of water if needed.
Additional Recipes to Try
I hope you loved this fresh spring roll recipe. I think you’ll love these recipes, too!
Spicy Asian Meatballs with Zucchini noodles
Broccoli Cashew Stir Fry – this is the easiest meal to make and packed with amazing flavor! You’ll love this easy and adaptable weeknight dinner idea!
15 minutes Spicy Peanut Noodles – this simple recipe will make you ditch the take-out menu!
Spring Rolls with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
For the rolls:
1 Cucumber, cut julienne
2 medium Carrots, shredded
1 cup Red cabbage, shredded
1 head Boston lettuce
1/2 cup Basil, chopped
1 cup Shiitake mushrooms, cut julienne
1/2 cup Cilantro, chopped
1 4 oz piece Salmon; seared, cooled and flaked by hand
5 Shrimp; seared, cooled and cut in half
1 cooked chicken breast, cooled and pulled (you can also used shredded rotisserie chicken for this)
10 Rice wraps
For the sauce:
1 cup peanut butter ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
2 tablespoons Soy sauce⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoon Sambal garlic chili sauce⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons rice wine vinegar⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons brown sugar⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
6 cloves garlic, minced⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
4 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
1/2 cup water
Instructions
Fill a bowl large enough to submerge the rice sheets with warm water.
Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water at a time, completely submerging . Leave in for 5-10 seconds, until pliable and the sheets are clear.
Place on a wet surface (I used a wet cutting board), and top with a sprinkling of lettuce, mint, basil, cabbage, cilantro, carrot, and green onions.
Carefully roll everything upward, tightly but gently to avoid ripping the rice paper wrapper. The paper will stick to itself!
To make the sauce, combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth.
Dip spring rolls into sauce. Enjoy!
hoose a bowl that is large enough to soak the rice sheets. Fill with water and do one at a time (if soaked too long they will stick and disintegrate) Place one sheet in and rotate with fingers until clear. Place on a wet surface, add protein first then pile on the veg! Simply roll up and the the rice wrapper will stick to itself! Slice in half and display with the protein facing up! submerging . Leave in for 5-10 seconds, until pliable.
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