Looking for a light, refreshing, and colorful dish that’s perfect for summer (or any time of year)? These Fresh Vegan Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce are your answer! Filled with crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and rice noodles, these rolls are a healthy, fun-to-make meal or appetizer. Pair them with a creamy, savory peanut dipping sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s packed with texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
Whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something light and fresh, these vegan summer rolls are a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Customizable: Use your favorite veggies, herbs, or even tofu for endless variations.
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for hot days when you want to avoid turning on the stove.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fresh vegetables, rice noodles, and healthy fats from the peanut sauce.
- Fun to Make: Rolling these beauties is easy and satisfying. Get the kids involved for a family activity!
Ingredients
For the Summer Rolls:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup rice vermicelli noodles, cooked and cooled
- 1 large carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional)
- 1 avocado, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped peanuts
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Ingredient Breakdown
Rice Paper Wrappers
These delicate wrappers are the base for summer rolls. They’re made from rice and tapioca flour, making them naturally gluten-free.
Vegetables and Herbs
A mix of crunchy, fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell pepper pairs beautifully with fragrant herbs like mint, cilantro, and Thai basil.
Rice Noodles
Rice noodles add texture and make the rolls more filling. They’re also gluten-free and quick to prepare.
Peanut Dipping Sauce
This creamy sauce is the star of the dish, balancing salty, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Substitute almond or sunflower butter if you have a peanut allergy.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Prepare all the vegetables by slicing them into thin, uniform strips for easy rolling.
- Arrange the vegetables, noodles, and herbs on a clean cutting board or platter for easy assembly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sriracha (if desired).
- Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.
Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper Wrappers
- Fill a shallow dish or large plate with warm water.
- Submerge one rice paper wrapper at a time for 10-15 seconds, or until soft but still slightly firm.
- Carefully remove and place the softened wrapper on a clean, damp surface.
Step 4: Assemble the Summer Rolls
- Near the center of the wrapper, place a small handful of rice noodles, followed by a layer of vegetables, herbs, and avocado slices (if using).
- Fold the sides of the wrapper inward, then tightly roll from the bottom to the top, like a burrito.
- Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange the rolls on a platter and serve with the peanut dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds if desired.
Picture Gallery
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Include baked tofu, tempeh, or edamame for a protein boost.
- Mix and Match Veggies: Use whatever fresh veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini, sprouts, or snap peas.
- Spice it Up: Add a slice of chili or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the rolls for a kick.
- Storage: Summer rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container with damp paper towels for up to 1 day. Keep the sauce in a separate container.
- Sauce Alternative: Pair with sweet chili sauce or a tangy hoisin dip for variety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Rolls + Sauce)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin C: 80% of the daily value
- Iron: 15% of the daily value
These summer rolls are a perfect balance of fresh veggies, healthy carbs, and creamy dipping sauce, making them as nourishing as they are delicious.
Conclusion
These Fresh Vegan Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce are a simple yet stunning dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or a quick and light meal, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Ready to roll into the world of fresh flavors? Give these summer rolls a try, and let us know how they turned out! Share your favorite variations or tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these summer rolls ahead of time?
Yes! To prevent them from drying out, wrap the rolls individually in damp paper towels and store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
2. What can I use instead of peanut butter for the sauce?
You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter as substitutes. Adjust the flavor as needed.
3. Are summer rolls gluten-free?
Yes, they’re naturally gluten-free as long as you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in the peanut sauce.
4. Can I use other wrappers?
If rice paper wrappers aren’t available, collard greens or large lettuce leaves can be used for a low-carb option.
5. How do I keep the rolls from sticking together?
Place the finished rolls slightly apart on the platter and cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent sticking.
Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredient values and typical serving sizes and is for informational purposes only. Variations in ingredients, brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes may result in differences in the actual nutritional content of your dish. This recipe is not intended to replace professional dietary advice or medical guidance. Individual dietary needs vary, so always consult a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or healthcare provider for specific concerns. By using this recipe, you agree that the creators are not responsible for any outcomes, including inaccuracies or adverse reactions.