Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, refreshing meals that keep you cool and energized. One of the most delightful dishes to try is vegan summer rolls — fresh, colorful, and packed with crunchy vegetables and herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper.
These rolls are not only easy to assemble but also incredibly versatile, making them ideal for quick lunches, party appetizers, or healthy snacks. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
With a combination of crisp veggies, fragrant herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce, vegan summer rolls offer a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and made with whole, nutritious ingredients.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of creating perfect summer rolls, share tips for customization, and provide serving suggestions to elevate your meal. Let’s dive into this fresh and tasty recipe that’s sure to brighten your summer days!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegan summer rolls are a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Here’s why you’ll adore making and eating them:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with no cooking required.
- Healthy and light: Full of fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for hot weather.
- Customizable: You can use your favorite veggies, tofu, or even fruit.
- Gluten-free and vegan: Suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
- Great for entertaining: Serve as finger food or a light meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 12 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles (optional)
- 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- 1 cup firm tofu, sliced into thin strips
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large shallow dish or bowl (for soaking rice papers)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Plate or tray (for assembling rolls)
- Small bowl (for dipping sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables and herbs: Wash and dry all the fresh ingredients. Shred the carrots, slice the cucumber, bell pepper, avocado, and tofu into thin strips. Chop the green onions and roughly tear the mint, cilantro, and basil leaves.
- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles: If using, cook according to package instructions, rinse under cold water, and drain well. Set aside.
- Soak the rice paper wrappers: Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10-15 seconds until it softens but is still slightly firm (it will continue to soften when you roll).
- Lay the softened wrapper flat: Carefully place the wrapper on a clean, flat surface or a damp kitchen towel.
- Assemble the roll: On the lower third of the rice paper, layer a small handful of shredded carrots, cucumber slices, bell pepper, herbs, rice noodles (if using), avocado slices, tofu strips, and green onions. Be careful not to overfill.
- Fold and roll: Fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides snugly. Roll tightly but gently to seal the ingredients inside. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
- Make the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp maple syrup, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty, balanced dip.
- Serve: Arrange the summer rolls on a platter, sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts for a crunchy finish, and serve alongside the dipping sauce.
Tips & Variations
To prevent your rolls from sticking together, place a damp towel between each roll if stacking them on a plate.
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:
- Protein swap: Use tempeh, chickpeas, or edamame instead of tofu.
- Veggie choices: Add thinly sliced jicama, shredded cabbage, or bean sprouts for extra crunch.
- Fruit twist: Incorporate mango or pineapple slices for a sweet contrast.
- Dipping sauce variations: Try a peanut sauce made with peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and a touch of sriracha.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Roll |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 3g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sugar | 2g |
Sodium | 220mg |
Serving Suggestions
Vegan summer rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for a light lunch.
- Serve as an appetizer or finger food at your next party alongside other Asian-inspired dishes.
- Enjoy as a side to a main dish like Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.
- Make a picnic-friendly meal by packing rolls with dipping sauce in a separate container.
Conclusion
Vegan summer rolls are a wonderful way to celebrate fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors while keeping your meals light and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a simple, fast, and delicious plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
With endless customization possibilities, these rolls can adapt to your favorite veggies, herbs, and proteins, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a refreshing meal on a warm day, these summer rolls are sure to impress.
Don’t forget to experiment with dipping sauces and fillings to keep your summer meals exciting and flavorful.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more plant-based delights like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat, or try the Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for effortless dinners.
For bread lovers, the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is a must-try!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Summer Roll Recipe
Description: Fresh and light vegan summer rolls filled with crisp vegetables and herbs. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1 cup cooked vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Soak rice paper wrappers in warm water for 15 seconds until soft.
- Lay softened wrapper flat on a clean surface.
- Place a small handful of vermicelli noodles in the center.
- Add shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce, avocado, mint, and cilantro on top.
- Fold bottom edge over filling, then fold in sides and roll tightly.
- Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Serve with peanut dipping sauce or soy sauce.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 22 g
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