theplatedscene.com
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Roll
Light, crisp, and flavorful rolls wrapped in rice paper with prawns, vermicelli, and fresh vegetables.
Prep
30 min
Cook
5 min
Total
35 min
Serves
8
Instructions
- 01
Cook the noodlesBoil water in a small pot. Add vermicelli noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- 02
Cook the prawnsBring a small pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add prawns and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until pink and firm. Drain and let them cool slightly. Slice each prawn in half lengthwise.
- 03
Prep the vegetables and herbs- Carrot, cucumber (kyuri), and capsicum: Julienne using a mandoline or sharp knife to keep the strips thin and uniform.- Butterhead lettuce: Tear into smaller, flat pieces that fit comfortably into your roll.- Mint leaves and cilantro: Pluck the leaves from the stems and gently pat dry.📝 For step-by-step prep and slicing tips, see the “Vegetables and Herbs for Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls (And How to Prepare Them)” section above with images.
- 04
Make the sauceIn a small bowl, mix peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and sugar. Add warm water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—smooth and scoopable.
- 05
Assemble the rollsFill a large shallow plate or bowl with warm water.Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for 2–3 seconds, then lay it flat on a clean surface.In the bottom third of the wrapper, layer lettuce, vermicelli, carrot, capsicum, cucumber, mint, and cilantro.Place 2–3 prawn halves above the veggie stack, so they’ll show through the roll.Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly upward.📝 Need a visual? Check out the “How to Fold Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls” section above with a step-by-step image guide.
- 06
ServeServe immediately with the peanut-lime dipping sauce. Enjoy fresh!
Variations & swaps
Variations of Vietnamese Fresh Spring Roll
- One of the most delightful things about the Vietnamese fresh spring roll is how flexible and adaptable it is. While the traditional version typically includes prawns, vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and lettuce, the variations are endless, and many of them are just as beloved as the original.
- For example, tofu and tempeh are popular choices in vegan versions, often marinated and pan-fried for extra flavor. Grilled pork (thịt nướng), shredded chicken, or even slices of hard-boiled egg are commonly used in different regions of Vietnam. Some recipes swap in pickled vegetables for added tang, or wrap in perilla leaves and chives for more complexity and color.
- But one twist I love—especially in warmer months—is adding fresh fruit to the rolls. It might sound unconventional at first, but fruit works beautifully in Vietnamese fresh spring rolls because it enhances the refreshing nature of the dish and adds a surprising layer of texture and taste.
- Mango is one of the most popular fruits used. Its natural sweetness and soft, silky flesh complement savory fillings like prawns or tofu and pair especially well with peanut-based sauces. Thin slices of ripe mango bring a tropical, juicy burst that makes each bite more vibrant.
- Avocado, while technically a fruit, adds a creamy richness that balances out the crunch of raw vegetables. It’s a great choice if you want to make the roll feel a bit more filling or indulgent without compromising its lightness.
- Strawberries or green apple slices can be used in more playful, fusion-style rolls—adding tartness, crunch, or sweetness depending on the type. They pair surprisingly well with herbs like mint or Thai basil and work especially well in rolls designed for dipping in lime or soy-based sauces.
- Pineapple can also be used sparingly for a sweet-sour contrast, especially if you’re including grilled meats or tofu in the filling.
- Using fruit in Vietnamese fresh spring rolls isn’t just a novelty—it’s a clever way to introduce seasonal or local ingredients, experiment with new flavor combinations, and even turn the roll into a lighter dessert-style dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want something a little different, fruit-filled rolls are a colorful, tasty twist on the classic.
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