Name: Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 ounces rice vermicelli or maifun brown rice noodles; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 cup torn butter lettuce, ribs removed; 1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage; 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler; 2 Persian (mini) cucumbers or 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or sliced into strips with a julienne peeler; 2 medium jalapeños, ribs and seeds removed, thinly sliced; ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions; ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro; ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh mint; ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari or soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something colorful, crunchy, and utterly refreshing, you have to try Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce. These beauties wrap up vibrant veggies, fragrant herbs, and silky vermicelli noodles in tender rice paper, creating a snack or light meal that’s equal parts nourishing and fun. Paired with a luscious, tangy peanut sauce for dipping, these rolls are a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. They’re also endlessly customizable for whatever is in your fridge – making them the MVP of easy, healthy eating!

Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Real talk: the beauty of Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce is how a handful of simple, vivid ingredients come together to make magic. Each one adds a layer of crunch, freshness, or creaminess that makes every bite seriously craveable.

Rice vermicelli or brown rice noodles: These tender noodles act as the cozy, carby foundation inside each roll, soaking up all the flavors.
Toasted sesame oil: Just a splash gives the noodles a rich, nutty aroma that sets off the fresh veggies perfectly.
Fine sea salt: Lifts and balances all the natural flavors.
Butter lettuce: The soft, leafy base both cushions the fillings and adds a gentle crunch.
Red cabbage: Ultra-thin slices give a gorgeous pop of color and satisfying crispness.
Carrots: Matchsticks or julienned strips add sweetness and vibrant orange hues.
Cucumber: Cool, clean, and oh-so hydrating — a must for that classic freshness.
Jalapeños: For a kick! Slice thin for just a little heat, or go bolder if you’re a spice-lover.
Green onions: A sprinkle of sharp, savory bite to balance the sweet and spicy elements.
Fresh cilantro and mint: These herbs bring aromatic, zippy flavor you truly can’t skip.
Rice paper (spring roll wrappers): Chewy and translucent, they hold everything together in a delicate package.
Creamy peanut butter: The nutty backbone for that deeply delicious dipping sauce.
Rice vinegar: Brings brightness and a hint of tang to the peanut sauce.
Reduced-sodium tamari or soy sauce: Adds savory umami depth to tie flavors together.
Honey or maple syrup: Gives a touch of natural sweetness to round out the peanut sauce.
Garlic: Brings warmth and aromatic pop to the dip.
Water: Adjusts the consistency of your peanut sauce so it’s dippable and creamy.

How to Make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Cook and Season the Noodles

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Cook your rice vermicelli or brown rice noodles just until al dente—it usually only takes a couple of minutes, so keep an eye on them. Drain and rinse the noodles under cool water to stop the cooking, then toss them with a dash of toasted sesame oil and salt while they’re still warm. This step gives your noodles flavor all on their own and prevents them from sticking together.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Herbs

Slice your fresh carrots, cucumber, and jalapeño as thin as you can for that classic crunch in every bite. Tear the butter lettuce into bite-sized pieces, and slice the cabbage into shreds. Gather your green onions, cilantro, and mint—then mix these herbs together in a small bowl so they’re ready for assembly. The fresher your veggies and herbs, the more lively your Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce will taste!

Step 3: Set Up Your Rolling Station

Fill a shallow pan, like a pie dish or cake pan, with about an inch of water, and fold a clean tea towel next to it. This is your workspace! Having your fillings and herbs handy ensures that the rolling process is smooth and mess-free.

Step 4: Soften the Rice Paper

Working with one sheet at a time, gently dip your rice paper into the water. Let it rest for around 20 seconds, give or take—you’ll get a feel for when it’s just pliable but not overly soft. Lay it flat on your tea towel to absorb extra water and make it easier to fill.

Step 5: Fill and Roll

Arrange a few pieces of butter lettuce across the lower third of the rice paper, leaving about an inch around the edge. Top with a small pile of noodles, then a pinch each of cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and jalapeño. Scatter a generous sprinkle of your herby green onion, cilantro, and mint mixture over everything. Now, fold the bottom of the rice paper up over the fillings, tuck in the sides burrito-style, then gently but firmly roll it all the way up. Repeat with the remaining fillings, enjoying the satisfying rhythm as you go.

Step 6: Whisk the Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, blend together creamy peanut butter, rice vinegar, tamari or soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, and pressed garlic. Whisk until smooth, then stir in water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce is creamy yet scoopable. This is the crown jewel of Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce—don’t be shy with dipping!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your completed spring rolls on a platter, either whole or sliced in half on the diagonal (hello, visual appeal!). Pour that peanut sauce into a small bowl for the grand finale. Invite everyone to grab, dip, and devour—because these rolls are all about sharing and savoring together.

How to Serve Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

For extra pop, try sprinkling your platter with toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped peanuts. A few whole mint or cilantro leaves make your Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce look restaurant-worthy. For a dash of bright heat, add a couple of lime wedges on the side—guests can squeeze fresh juice inside before every bite.

Side Dishes

Complement these light, crunchy rolls with sides like steamed edamame, a simple miso soup, or a zingy Asian slaw. If you’re serving them as a meal, a bowl of chilled soba noodles or a cucumber salad pairs beautifully, balancing flavors and textures to keep things feeling fresh and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-ready look, serve your Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce sliced into bite-sized pieces and arranged upright in a wide glass or on a platter. Try color-blocking with different veggies in each roll, or offer a “rolling station” so everyone can build their own. Mini rolls are perfect for snacking, while full-sized ones make a gorgeous, shareable main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are best the day they’re made, but you can stash them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. The rolls may soften a bit, but they’ll still be tasty for a quick snack or lunch.

Freezing

Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended for these rice paper rolls—the delicate wrappers and fresh fillings lose their texture and become too soggy once thawed. If you want to meal-prep in advance, keep your fillings prepped and the peanut sauce ready in the fridge, then roll fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you’re pulling leftovers from the fridge, just set them out for a few minutes to take off the chill before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all your fillings up to a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Roll them fresh a few hours before serving and keep them covered with a damp towel to preserve softness.

What if I don’t like cilantro or mint?

No worries! Swap in fresh basil, parsley, or leave out the herbs entirely if you’d like. The rolls will still be packed with flavor and personality.

Are these spring rolls gluten free?

If you use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your noodles are made from rice or another gluten-free grain, your Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce will be entirely gluten free. Always double-check ingredient labels, just to be safe!

Can I add protein to the rolls?

Definitely! Grilled shrimp, tofu, or strips of cooked chicken are all delicious add-ins. Just layer them in with the veggies, and you’ll have a heartier, more filling meal.

What type of peanut butter works best for the sauce?

Creamy, unsweetened peanut butter is my go-to—it gives the sauce a smooth, luscious consistency. If you like a bit of texture, crunchy works too! Natural peanut butter keeps things wholesome and lets the flavors of the sauce shine through.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about rolling up and dipping your own Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce—every bite is a burst of flavor, texture, and freshness. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant snack, an impressive appetizer, or a new way to love your veggies, these spring rolls totally deliver. Gather your favorite veggies, whip up that peanut sauce, and dive in!