Cold Roll Recipe Vegetarian: Fresh and Easy Meal Ideas

Cold rolls are a refreshing and light dish perfect for warm weather or when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. This vegetarian cold roll recipe combines crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and soft tofu wrapped in delicate rice paper, creating a burst of flavors and textures in every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome lunch, a party appetizer, or a healthy snack, these cold rolls are easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Plus, they’re gluten-free and packed with vitamins and plant-based protein.

Ready in under 30 minutes, they also make a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days.

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step to master these vibrant vegetarian cold rolls. You’ll learn how to select the freshest ingredients, roll them perfectly, and prepare a delicious dipping sauce that complements the rolls beautifully.

If you love fresh, colorful dishes like this, be sure to check out my Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for another vibrant vegetarian option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian cold rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce in a fun, handheld form. Unlike fried spring rolls, cold rolls are light and healthy, making them perfect for anyone mindful of their diet.

The combination of crunchy vegetables, creamy tofu, and fragrant herbs wrapped in soft rice paper creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

They’re also incredibly customizable—you can swap in your favorite veggies or add some protein like tempeh or chickpeas. Plus, they require no cooking, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to add more plant-based meals to your routine, these rolls are sure to become a go-to recipe.

Ingredients

• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 200g firm tofu, drained and sliced into thin strips
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh herbs: ¼ cup mint leaves, ¼ cup cilantro, ¼ cup Thai basil leaves
• 100g rice vermicelli noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Dipping sauce: 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, 1 garlic clove minced, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, red chili flakes to taste

Equipment

• Large shallow dish or pie plate (for soaking rice paper)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Large bowl (to mix dipping sauce)
• Small pot (to cook rice vermicelli noodles)
• Serving platter or plates
• Kitchen towel or clean cloth

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu: Press the tofu between paper towels or a clean cloth to remove excess moisture. Slice into thin strips about 3 inches long.
2. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles: Boil water in a pot, add the noodles, and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
3. Prep the vegetables: Julienne the carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper. Shred the red cabbage and slice the avocado and green onions. Rinse and dry the fresh herbs.
4. Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red chili flakes. Adjust seasoning to your taste and set aside.
5. Soften the rice paper: Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable. Don’t over-soak or it will tear easily.
6. Assemble the rolls: Lay the softened rice paper flat on a clean surface. In the center, place a small handful of rice vermicelli noodles, a few strips of tofu, a mix of carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, cabbage, avocado slices, green onions, and a few mint, cilantro, and basil leaves. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
7. Roll it up: Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly, and continue rolling upward until the roll is sealed. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and ingredients.
8. Serve: Arrange the cold rolls on a serving platter with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy immediately for the best texture!

Tips & Variations

For an extra protein boost, try adding cooked chickpeas or marinated tempeh strips instead of tofu.

If you prefer a spicy kick, add thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a drizzle of sriracha inside the rolls.

Make ahead tip: You can prepare all the fillings in advance and store them separately. Assemble the rolls just before serving to keep the rice paper from drying out or sticking.

For a nutty flavor, add crushed peanuts or cashews inside or sprinkle on top before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve these vegetarian cold rolls as a light lunch or appetizer alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with other Asian-inspired dishes like steamed dumplings or a crunchy peanut noodle salad.

For a fun party platter, cut the rolls in half diagonally and arrange them on a large board with different dipping sauces like hoisin-peanut or sweet chili sauce. Looking for more healthy vegetarian ideas?

Check out my Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe for a comforting vegetable bake.

Conclusion

These vegetarian cold rolls are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to eat fresh, wholesome ingredients in a fun and convenient form. Their vibrant colors and fresh flavors make them visually appealing, while the combination of crunchy veggies, soft tofu, and fragrant herbs ensures every bite is satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, these rolls are sure to impress.

Easy to customize and quick to prepare, they fit perfectly into any meal plan and work great as a healthy snack or appetizer. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces to keep things exciting.

For more inventive recipes, explore my Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a sweet treat, or dive into the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for something savory and filling. Happy rolling!

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