Spring Vegetable Spring Rolls

Name: Spring Vegetable Spring Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 spring rolls
Ingredients: 1 cup julienned carrots; 1 cup julienned cucumbers; 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced; 1 cup fresh herbs (mint, basil, or cilantro); 1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded; 12 rice paper wrappers; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Bounty Recipes

I love making spring vegetable spring rolls as they’re not only delicious but also visually stunning. The array of crisp, colorful veggies wrapped in delicate rice paper makes for a perfect appetizer or snack. With a simple dipping sauce, these rolls are a hit at gatherings and perfect for healthy eating. Each bite bursts with freshness, and I take great pleasure in choosing seasonal vegetables that make each roll unique and delightful. Whether it's for a party or just a light meal, these spring rolls never disappoint!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T16:02:27.779Z

As I experimented with various combinations of vegetables, I learned that the crispier the veggies, the better the spring roll. My favorites include julienned carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, which not only taste great but provide a splash of color. What really sets these rolls apart is the fresh herbs I sometimes toss in, like mint or basil; they take the flavor to a whole new level.

One tip I found super useful is to soak the rice paper just enough to be pliable, ensuring they don’t tear while rolling. It took a bit of practice, but once I perfected the technique, making these rolls became second nature. Plus, I love being able to customize them based on what’s in season!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors in every bite
Customizable with your favorite veggies
Perfect for dipping in a zesty sauce
Healthy, light, and perfect for warm weather

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of spring vegetable spring rolls lies in the vibrant selection of vegetables you can use. While the recipe lists carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and fresh herbs, feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like radishes, snap peas, or avocados for additional flavor and texture. The crunch of fresh veggies adds a delightful contrast to the softness of the rice paper, making every bite an experience. Choosing organic produce can enhance the freshness and overall taste of your rolls, so keep that in mind while shopping.

When julienning vegetables, uniformity is crucial. Aim for strips about 1/8-inch thick for even wrapping and consistent flavor. If some vegetables release a lot of moisture, like cucumbers, consider removing the seeds to prevent sogginess in your rolls. Always taste your vegetables first to ensure they are fresh and at their peak; this can elevate the final taste significantly.

Mastering the Rice Paper Technique

Soaking rice paper can be tricky; it requires a delicate balance between pliability and over-soaking. Aim for about 10 seconds in warm water—just enough for the wrapper to become soft and flexible without falling apart. Gently lift the rice paper out and shake off excess water before laying it flat on a clean surface. This technique prevents the rolls from becoming soggy and ensures they hold together well during assembly.

As you roll, be mindful of the tightness. A firm yet gentle roll will secure the filling without tearing the rice paper. If you find any tears, it's often best to start over with a new wrapper rather than try to salvage it, as this can lead to a messy assembly.

Dipping Sauce Variations

While the basic dipping sauce of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil is a winning combination, consider experimenting with flavors to create your unique twist. Adding crushed garlic or grated ginger to the sauce can introduce a zesty kick that pairs well with the fresh vegetables. For a sweeter note, incorporate some chili paste or even a spoonful of peanut butter, which can complement the fresh herbs beautifully.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the amounts based on your preferences. If you love a more intense flavor, increase the soy sauce, or if you prefer a tangier taste, add more rice vinegar. Preparing the dipping sauce a few hours ahead of time can deepen the flavors, so feel free to make it in advance and store it in the fridge.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for delicious spring rolls:

Vegetables

1 cup julienned carrots
1 cup julienned cucumbers
1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh herbs (mint, basil, or cilantro)
1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded

Rice Paper Wrappers

12 rice paper wrappers

Dipping Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to roll!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your spring rolls:

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and cut all the vegetables into thin, uniform strips. If using herbs, make sure they are clean and dry.

Soak the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 seconds until it becomes pliable, but not too soft.

Assemble the Spring Rolls

Lay the softened rice paper on a flat surface. Place a small amount of each vegetable and a few herbs at the bottom of the wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up.

Repeat and Serve

Continue the process with the remaining rice paper and fillings. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Enjoy your fresh, homemade spring rolls!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use other vegetables you enjoy, like avocados or bean sprouts. Always serve the rolls immediately for the best texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare them ahead of time, store the assembled rolls in an airtight container with a damp paper towel on top to prevent drying out. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 hours before serving; however, avoid soaking the rice paper too far in advance, as it may lose its elasticity.

If you plan to make these rolls for a larger gathering, you can prep the vegetables a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers separated by type to maintain freshness. This will save you time on the day of the event, allowing you to simply assemble and serve.

Healthy Eating Made Fun

These spring rolls are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables. By opting for a variety of colorful produce, you're not just enhancing the dish's aesthetics but also providing a wide range of vitamins and minerals in every bite. This makes them a fantastic choice for a light meal or appetizer, especially during warmer months.

Consider serving the spring rolls alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of homemade pho for a complete meal. This adds a variety of textures and flavors, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. My family loves to make a meal out of these rolls, and they often become the highlight of our gatherings.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for either small gatherings or larger parties. If you’re hosting a crowd, consider doubling the amount of vegetables and wrappers without altering the base recipe. Keep in mind that the assembly may take a bit longer, so getting a helping hand can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Conversely, if you're only preparing for one or two people, it’s easy to halve the ingredient amounts, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Just prepare smaller sets of vegetables and wrappers; remember that leftover fillings can also be used in salads or stir-fries, maximizing your ingredients and minimizing waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make spring rolls ahead of time?

It's best to make them fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead and assemble them right before serving.

→ What dipping sauce should I use?

A simple soy sauce mix works great, but you can also use peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce for extra flavor!

→ Are spring rolls gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, these spring rolls can be a gluten-free option.

→ Can I add protein to the spring rolls?

Absolutely! Cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu can be added for extra protein.