Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These summer rolls are all about freshness and balance. The combination of crunchy vegetables, soft noodles, and flavorful herbs creates a refreshing bite, while the peanut dipping sauce adds a creamy, slightly sweet and savory contrast.
They are also highly customizable and require no cooking for the assembly, making them a fun and interactive dish to prepare. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a light meal, they always feel fresh and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the summer rolls:
rice paper wrappers
rice vermicelli noodles
cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise
lettuce leaves
carrots, julienned
cucumber, julienned
fresh mint leaves
fresh cilantro
fresh basil
For the peanut dipping sauce:
peanut butter
hoisin sauce
soy sauce
lime juice
brown sugar or honey
garlic, minced
warm water
Optional additions:
sliced avocado
tofu
thinly sliced bell peppers
Directions
Start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
Prepare all the fillings by washing and slicing the vegetables and herbs. Make sure everything is ready before assembling, as the rolling process goes quickly.
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens, then place it on a clean surface.
Layer a piece of lettuce, a small portion of noodles, carrots, cucumber, and herbs onto the lower third of the wrapper. Add shrimp on top if using.
Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly to seal. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
To make the peanut dipping sauce, whisk together peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar or honey, and minced garlic. Add warm water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, dippable consistency.
Serve the summer rolls fresh with the peanut dipping sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 rolls, serving 4 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Variations
For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables like bell peppers and avocado.
You can also use grilled chicken or thinly sliced beef for a different protein option.
If you prefer a different sauce, try a traditional Vietnamese nước chấm made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili.
Add sliced mango or pineapple for a slightly sweet and tropical twist.
For extra crunch, include shredded cabbage or bean sprouts.
Storage/Reheating
Summer rolls are best enjoyed fresh, as the rice paper can dry out or become tough over time.
If you need to store them, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Do not reheat, as these are meant to be served cold or at room temperature.
The peanut sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir and add a bit of warm water before serving if it thickens.
FAQs
Why are my rice paper wrappers tearing?
They may be soaked too long. Dip them briefly in warm water and handle gently.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but they are best eaten the same day. Wrap them well to prevent drying.
What herbs are essential?
Mint, cilantro, and basil are traditional, but you can adjust based on preference.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, chicken, beef, tofu, or even just vegetables work well.
How do I keep the rolls from sticking?
Place them on a plate lined with parchment or lightly damp lettuce leaves.
Is the peanut sauce spicy?
Not usually, but you can add chili paste or sriracha for heat.
Can I make the sauce thinner?
Yes, just add more warm water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Are these gluten-free?
They can be if you use gluten-free hoisin and soy sauce alternatives.
What can I serve with these?
They pair well with soups, salads, or other Vietnamese dishes.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, assembling the rolls is simple and fun, making it a great activity for kids.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce are a fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With endless customization options and a delicious dipping sauce, they’re perfect for light meals, appetizers, or sharing with friends and family.
PrintVietnamese Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce are fresh, vibrant rolls filled with crisp vegetables, herbs, and shrimp, served with a creamy, savory peanut sauce.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- rice paper wrappers
- rice vermicelli noodles
- cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise
- lettuce leaves
- carrots, julienned
- cucumber, julienned
- fresh mint leaves
- fresh cilantro
- fresh basil
- peanut butter
- hoisin sauce
- soy sauce
- lime juice
- brown sugar or honey
- garlic, minced
- warm water
Instructions
- Cook rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare all vegetables and herbs by washing and slicing.
- Fill a shallow dish with warm water and briefly dip a rice paper wrapper until softened.
- Place the wrapper on a clean surface.
- Add lettuce, noodles, carrots, cucumber, herbs, and shrimp to the lower third.
- Fold the bottom over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
- Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Whisk peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, and garlic together.
- Add warm water gradually until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Serve rolls fresh with peanut dipping sauce.
Notes
- Do not over-soak rice paper to prevent tearing.
- Wrap rolls individually to keep them from sticking.
- Substitute shrimp with tofu or chicken if desired.
- Add sriracha or chili paste for a spicy sauce.
- Best enjoyed fresh, as rice paper can dry out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
