Shrimp Spring Rolls
Shrimp spring rolls are a delightful, fresh, and light appetizer originating from Vietnamese cuisine. These rolls are filled with succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs, all wrapped in a delicate rice paper roll.
They’re typically served with a flavorful dipping sauce, such as a tangy peanut or spicy hoisin sauce, making each bite packed with flavor.
Perfect for warm-weather days, shrimp spring rolls offer a refreshing, low-calorie snack or starter that’s both healthy and delicious. Preparing these at home allows you to customize the ingredients, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Spring Rolls:
- Large shrimp – 1 pound, peeled, deveined, and cooked
- Rice paper wrappers – 12 (8.5-inch diameter)
- Vermicelli noodles – 4 ounces, cooked and cooled
- Lettuce leaves – 1 cup, torn into small pieces (romaine or butter lettuce works well)
- Cucumber – 1, julienned
- Carrot – 1, julienned
- Fresh herbs – ½ cup (combination of fresh mint, cilantro, and basil leaves)
- Green onions – 2, cut into thin strips (optional)
For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:
- Creamy peanut butter – ¼ cup
- Hoisin sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Water – 2-3 tablespoons (to thin the sauce)
- Chili flakes or sriracha – ½ teaspoon (optional, for spice)
- Lime juice – 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra tang)
How to Make Shrimp Spring Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cook the shrimp by bringing a pot of water to a boil, then adding the shrimp and cooking until they are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and let them cool. Slice each shrimp in half lengthwise for easier rolling.
Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, usually by soaking them in hot water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, dippable consistency.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick, and a touch of lime juice for added tang. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Fill a large shallow bowl or pie dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 5-10 seconds, until it softens slightly but isn’t too sticky.
Lay the softened wrapper on a clean, damp kitchen towel or smooth surface to prevent sticking.
In the center of the wrapper, place a small handful of lettuce leaves, a few pieces of cucumber, carrot, and vermicelli noodles.
Add 3-4 shrimp halves in a single layer, and top with a few fresh herbs and green onion slices, if using.
Fold the sides of the wrapper inward over the filling, then roll it tightly from the bottom up, similar to rolling a burrito. The rice paper will stick to itself, sealing the roll.
Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the shrimp spring rolls immediately with the peanut dipping sauce on the side.
For added presentation, you can slice each roll in half diagonally.
Chef’s Note
For best results, work with the rice paper wrappers one at a time. They can quickly become sticky if soaked too long or left on a dry surface. A damp cloth underneath the rolls prevents them from sticking and makes rolling easier. Shrimp spring rolls can be personalized – add other vegetables like bell peppers, avocado slices, or even a little bit of shredded red cabbage for color.
If you prefer a different dipping sauce, hoisin or soy-based sauces work beautifully. The peanut dipping sauce can also be modified by adding coconut milk for a creamier texture or by adjusting the spice level with additional sriracha or chili flakes.
Storage Tip: Shrimp spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to one day in the refrigerator. Place a damp paper towel over the rolls to keep the rice paper from drying out.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 330mg
Shrimp spring rolls are light and low in calories, making them a great appetizer or main dish option for a nutritious meal. They provide lean protein from shrimp, fiber, and vitamins from fresh vegetables and herbs. The peanut sauce adds a bit of healthy fat and flavor without overwhelming the rolls’ light profile. This recipe is versatile, satisfying both those looking for a health-conscious option and those craving vibrant flavors.
Conclusion
Shrimp spring rolls are a refreshing, healthy way to enjoy seafood and fresh vegetables in a fun, handheld form. With the combination of tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs, each bite is packed with layers of flavor and texture.
The peanut dipping sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and slightly tangy, complementing the rolls’ delicate flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a light lunch, or simply craving something fresh, shrimp spring rolls are a fantastic choice. Enjoy this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe as a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold, delicious tastes!
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