
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsThese authentic Thai spring rolls showcase the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine in their most refreshing form. Delicate rice paper wraps encase a colorful medley of crisp lettuce, julienned carrots, cucumber ribbons, and vermicelli noodles, all brightened with fresh cilantro and basil. The accompanying peanut dipping sauce brings a rich, nutty sweetness with hints of lime and garlic that perfectly complements the fresh vegetables. Unlike fried spring rolls, these are served fresh and raw, making them a lighter yet equally satisfying appetizer. The key to perfect spring rolls lies in the rolling technique and keeping the rice paper at just the right moisture level. Popular throughout Thailand as a street food and restaurant appetizer, these rolls are naturally customizable and can be prepared ahead of time for entertaining.
Instructions
step by stepPrepare the peanut sauce by whisking together 3 tablespoons peanut oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon ginger, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a bowl. Set aside.
Cook the rice noodles according to package directions, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Prepare all vegetables: julienne the carrots, slice cucumber into thin strips, wash and dry lettuce leaves, and chop fresh cilantro and basil.
Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Working with one rice paper wrapper at a time, submerge it in water for 10-15 seconds until just softened but not too wet.
Lay the softened rice paper on a clean, damp cutting board. Place a lettuce leaf in the center, leaving 2 inches on each side.
Layer a small portion of noodles, carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and basil on top of the lettuce.
Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in both sides tightly, and roll up firmly but gently like a burrito.
Place seam-side down on a plate and cover with a damp towel. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Slice each roll diagonally in half if desired. Serve immediately with peanut dipping sauce.
Thai Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Fresh Thai spring rolls filled with crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rice noodles, served with a creamy peanut sauce. Light, refreshing, and perfect for any gathering or healthy snack.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 ounces Noodles, cooked and cooled
- 2 pieces Carrots, julienned
- 1 pieces Cucumber, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 cups Lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- 4 tablespoons Cilantro, fresh, chopped
- 3 tablespoons Basil, fresh leaves
Peanut Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Peanut Oil
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1 pieces Lime, juiced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoons Honey
- 1 teaspoons Ginger, fresh, grated
- 1 teaspoons Sesame Oil
Chef Tips
expert adviceVariations & Substitutions
make it your ownStorage & Reheating
keeping it freshStore assembled spring rolls covered with damp paper towels and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. For best results, serve within 2-3 hours of making. Store peanut dipping sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze spring rolls as the rice paper will become mushy upon thawing.
Spring rolls are best served fresh and should not be reheated. If refrigerated, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. The peanut sauce can be gently warmed in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if desired, though it is traditionally served at room temperature.