Spring rolls are a delightful, fresh, and light appetizer that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Bursting with vibrant colors and crisp textures, vegetarian spring rolls offer a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or preparing a light meal, these spring rolls are incredibly versatile and sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
This recipe focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in a perfect harmony of flavors. With a tangy dipping sauce and a satisfying crunch, these spring rolls are a fantastic alternative to fried snacks, making them both nutritious and delicious.
Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Ready to roll?
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for making the best vegetarian spring rolls!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Freshness and flavor: These spring rolls are packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, ensuring a crisp, clean taste that’s refreshing and light.
Healthy and nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients and no frying, these spring rolls are low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber.
Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal cooking, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Customizable: You can swap veggies or add protein like tofu or tempeh to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Perfect for any occasion: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even a light lunch. They’re also great for parties and potlucks!
Ingredients
- 12 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 8 oz firm tofu, thinly sliced or crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- For the dipping sauce:
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin sauce)
Equipment
- Large shallow dish or bowl (for soaking rice paper)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or tongs
- Plate lined with a damp kitchen towel (to place rolled spring rolls)
- Small bowl (for dipping sauce)
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan (optional, for tofu)
Instructions
- Prepare the tofu (optional): If using tofu, press it to remove excess water. Then, heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add tofu slices and soy sauce, cooking until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and thinly slice or shred the carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, and cabbage. Rinse bean sprouts and fresh herbs thoroughly. Slice avocado if using. Arrange all prepared ingredients on a large platter for easy assembly.
- Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Add warm water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
- Soften the rice paper wrappers: Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for about 10-15 seconds until soft but still slightly firm (it will continue to soften on the plate). Lay the softened wrapper flat on a damp towel or plate.
- Assemble the spring rolls: Near the bottom edge of the wrapper, place a small handful of shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, cabbage, and bean sprouts. Add a few leaves of cilantro, mint, and basil. If using tofu and avocado, add a few pieces on top.
- Roll tightly: Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides and continue rolling tightly until sealed. Be gentle to avoid tearing the delicate rice paper.
- Repeat: Continue softening and rolling the remaining wrappers until all spring rolls are assembled. Keep them covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
- Serve: Arrange the spring rolls on a serving platter with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
“For the crispiest spring rolls, use fresh, crunchy vegetables and avoid over-soaking the rice paper.”
- Make ahead: Prepare vegetables and tofu in advance. Assemble spring rolls just before serving to keep the wrappers tender.
- Protein options: Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tempeh for non-vegetarians or additional protein.
- Spice it up: Add thin slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha inside the rolls for heat.
- Different herbs: Try swapping basil and mint for Thai basil or chives for unique flavor profiles.
- Dipping sauce alternatives: Try a simple soy sauce with fresh lime juice and chopped peanuts or a sweet chili sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Spring Roll |
---|---|
Calories | 90-120 kcal |
Protein | 3-5 grams |
Fat | 3-6 grams (depending on tofu and avocado) |
Carbohydrates | 12-15 grams |
Fiber | 3-4 grams |
Sodium | 150-250 mg (varies with soy sauce) |
Note: Nutrition varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
These vegetarian spring rolls are wonderfully versatile and pair well with many dishes. Serve them as a light appetizer before a main meal or as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread.
They complement dishes like stir-fried noodles, Vietnamese pho, or a fresh salad.
For a complete meal, consider pairing spring rolls with a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating or add a side of steamed dumplings. You can also enjoy them alongside some crispy baked tofu or a fresh cucumber salad.
Conclusion
Vegetarian spring rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a fresh, healthy, and colorful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The crisp vegetables combined with fragrant herbs and a tasty dipping sauce create a perfect bite every time.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, these spring rolls are sure to be a hit.
With their quick assembly and endless customization options, making spring rolls at home is both fun and rewarding. Plus, they offer a nutritious alternative to fried snacks without sacrificing taste or texture.
Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian recipes like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or discover new favorites in Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals. Happy rolling and bon appétit!
📖 Recipe Card: Spring Rolls Recipe Vegetarian
Description: Crispy and fresh vegetarian spring rolls filled with a colorful mix of vegetables. Perfect as an appetizer or light snack.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 8 spring rolls
Ingredients
- 8 spring roll wrappers
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, bean sprouts, and garlic in a bowl.
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper; toss to combine.
- Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface and add 2-3 tablespoons of filling near one edge.
- Roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go, to form a sealed spring roll.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry spring rolls until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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