Vegetarian Summer Rolls Recipe for Fresh and Easy Meals

Summer rolls are a refreshing and light dish perfect for warm weather, and the vegetarian summer rolls recipe offers a vibrant combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice paper that will delight your taste buds.

Unlike fried spring rolls, these rolls are served fresh and packed with nutrients, making them an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. They’re not only visually appealing but also customizable to your preferences, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these vegetarian summer rolls are simple to prepare and require minimal cooking. The crisp veggies and fragrant herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper create a harmonious balance of texture and flavor.

Plus, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce while staying cool and healthy. Ready to impress your friends and family with this fresh and tasty treat?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian summer rolls recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Here’s why you’ll love making and eating these rolls:

• Healthy and light: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, these rolls are low in calories but high in nutrients.
• Quick and easy: No frying required! They come together quickly and are perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins like tofu or tempeh for extra variety.
• Delicious dipping sauces: The rolls pair beautifully with tangy peanut sauce or a spicy hoisin dip, enhancing their flavors.
• Great for all occasions: Serve as appetizers, snacks, or light lunches — perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 1 cup thinly sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cup firm tofu, julienned (optional)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• Peanut dipping sauce (recipe below)

Equipment

• Large shallow bowl (for soaking rice paper)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Large plate or tray (for assembling rolls)
• Small bowls (for dipping sauce and holding herbs)
• Tongs or chopsticks (optional, for handling rolls)

Instructions

1. Prepare the noodles and vegetables: Cook vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions, drain, and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Julienne or thinly slice all vegetables and herbs. If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, then slice into thin strips.
2. Make the peanut dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and water to thin to desired consistency. Set aside.
3. Soak rice paper wrappers: Fill a large shallow bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds until soft but not too fragile. Remove and place on a clean, damp kitchen towel or large plate.
4. Assemble the summer rolls: On the softened rice paper, arrange a small handful of noodles, a few slices of each vegetable, some fresh herbs, and optionally tofu and avocado. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
5. Roll it up: Fold the sides of the rice paper over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up, similar to rolling a burrito. Be gentle to avoid tearing the rice paper.
6. Repeat: Continue soaking and assembling remaining rolls until all ingredients are used.
7. Serve immediately: Arrange summer rolls on a serving platter with the peanut dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy fresh for best texture.

Tips & Variations

“Keep a damp towel over the prepared rolls to prevent them from drying out if you’re making them ahead of time.”

• Make ahead: You can prepare the fillings and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble rolls just before serving.
• Protein options: Add cooked shrimp, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein boost.
• Spice it up: Add thin slices of fresh chili or a dash of sriracha inside the roll for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce in the dipping sauce.
• Different sauces: Try hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy lime and garlic vinaigrette for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian summer rolls shine when served fresh and cool. Pair them with a crisp green salad or a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for a light and wholesome meal.

For a heartier option, serve alongside Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or a flavorful Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals. These rolls also work beautifully as appetizers at a summer party or a picnic.

Conclusion

Vegetarian summer rolls are a delightful, fresh, and healthy addition to your cooking repertoire. Their vibrant colors and crisp textures make them visually appealing and satisfying.

With minimal effort and versatile ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that fits perfectly into any summer menu.

The best part is how adaptable this recipe is — from swapping vegetables to trying different dipping sauces, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light lunch, or a party appetizer, these rolls are sure to impress and refresh.

Explore more exciting vegetarian recipes on our site and enjoy the goodness of seasonal produce all year round!

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