Imagine a bite-sized bundle of freshness that combines vibrant vegetables, succulent proteins, and a creamy, nutty sauce that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. These Summer Rolls are not just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure waiting to unfold in your kitchen. Perfect for hot days, light lunches, or impressive appetizers, these rolls are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Rice paper wrappers
- Cooked shrimp or tofu
- Rice noodles
- Fresh vegetables (lettuce, cucumber, carrots)
- Peanut butter
- Soy sauce
- Lime juice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. If using cooked shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined. If using tofu, cut it into thin strips. Rinse the rice noodles under cold water and drain them well.
- Prepare the fresh vegetables by washing them thoroughly. Slice the lettuce into large pieces, julienne the cucumber and carrots into thin strips, and set aside.
- In a small bowl, prepare the peanut sauce by combining 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and the juice of 1 lime. Mix well until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Fill a large shallow dish or a plate with warm water. Take one rice paper wrapper and dip it into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable. Be careful not to soak it too long, as it can become too soft and tear.
- Once the rice paper wrapper is softened, lay it flat on a clean cutting board or a plate. In the center of the wrapper, place a few pieces of shrimp or tofu, a small handful of rice noodles, and a selection of fresh vegetables.
- To roll the summer roll, fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly from the bottom to the top. Make sure it is snug but not too tight, as the wrapper can tear.
- Repeat the process with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling ingredients until all the summer rolls are made.
- Serve the summer rolls on a platter with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your fresh and healthy summer rolls!
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Use warm (not hot) water when softening rice paper to prevent tearing and ensure the perfect texture.
- Don't Overstuff: Less is more when rolling. Too many ingredients can make wrapping difficult and cause tears.
- Work Quickly: Rice paper becomes more fragile as it sits, so assemble each roll promptly after softening.
- Keep Ingredients Uniform: Cut vegetables and proteins into similar-sized strips for easier rolling and a more aesthetically pleasing presentation.
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start assembling to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
- Sauce Consistency is Key: If your peanut sauce is too thick, gradually add water or a splash of rice vinegar to achieve the perfect dipping texture.
- Serve Immediately: Summer rolls are best enjoyed fresh, so prepare them just before serving to maintain the wrapper's delicate texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
