Summer Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls

The Summer Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls are the ultimate refreshing meal to cool you down during the hot season. These handheld delights feature a rainbow of fresh, crisp vegetables and herbs wrapped delicately in translucent rice paper, offering both visual appeal and satisfying crunch. Paired with two creamy and flavorful sauces, one a savory peanut blend and the other a zesty almond-ginger dip, these rolls deliver layers of texture and taste in every bite.

Perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or meal prep item, these rolls can be customized endlessly with your favorite veggies, herbs, and proteins. They’re naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them an ideal option for anyone following plant-based or allergen-conscious diets. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or preparing weekday lunches, these summer rolls are sure to impress with their fresh simplicity and vibrant flavors.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Rolls:

8 rice paper wrappers
1 cup vermicelli noodles, cooked
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 cucumber, julienned
1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
1 avocado, thinly sliced
1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh cilantro

For Peanut Dipping Sauce:

1/4 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin as needed)

For Almond-Ginger Dipping Sauce:

1/4 cup almond butter
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon lime juice
2–3 tablespoons water (to thin)

Directions:

Prepare all vegetables and herbs by washing and slicing them into thin strips.
Cook the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water.
Fill a shallow bowl with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for about 5 seconds, then lay it flat on a damp cutting board or plate.
Layer a small amount of noodles, vegetables, avocado, and herbs in the center of the rice paper.
Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly like a burrito. Repeat for all wrappers.
To make the peanut sauce, whisk all ingredients together in a bowl, adding water to achieve desired consistency.
To make the almond-ginger sauce, whisk all ingredients in a bowl, thinning with water as needed.
Serve rolls chilled or at room temperature with both dipping sauces on the side.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

A Refreshing Vegan Delight: Summer Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls with Two Dipping Sauces

Summer is the season of vibrant produce, lighter meals, and refreshing flavors. When the temperatures soar, turning on the stove or oven can feel like a chore, which is where these Summer Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls come in. Bursting with color, crispness, and plant-based goodness, these rolls are a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and have become a favorite in global kitchens for their versatility, presentation, and health benefits. Not only are they a joy to look at, but they’re also deeply satisfying to eat, especially when dipped in rich, creamy peanut sauce or zesty almond-ginger sauce.

This dish brings together rice paper sheets, delicate yet durable enough to hold a generous filling of fresh herbs, vegetables, and noodles. In Vietnamese culture, these rolls are known as Gỏi cuốn and are often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, particularly during the warmer months. Our take on them keeps the traditional structure but adapts the fillings and sauces to suit a vegan, gluten-free lifestyle that doesn’t sacrifice on taste or texture.

Culinary Heritage and Evolution

Originating in Vietnam, summer rolls were initially crafted as a fresh alternative to fried spring rolls. Traditionally filled with shrimp, pork, rice vermicelli, lettuce, and herbs, they are usually served with nước chấm, a tangy fish sauce-based dip. In modern adaptations, especially in the vegan and vegetarian communities, ingredients have evolved to include tofu, tempeh, or a medley of vegetables, providing just as much flavor and satisfaction as their meat-filled counterparts.

This version celebrates that modern twist, using vibrant vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, purple cabbage, bell peppers, and creamy avocado slices. What truly sets them apart, though, is the thoughtful pairing with two delectable dipping sauces. The peanut sauce is savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for those who crave bold umami flavors. On the other hand, the almond-ginger sauce introduces warmth, brightness, and a touch of citrus, offering a delightful contrast that keeps every bite exciting.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile

One of the most appealing aspects of summer rolls is their health-forward profile. Every component contributes to a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal:

Vegetables: The raw veggies in these rolls are high in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like A, C, and K. Purple cabbage, in particular, is rich in anthocyanins, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Rice Paper: These thin sheets are low in fat and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary restrictions. They also require no cooking, preserving the natural crispness of the ingredients they encase.
Herbs: Mint, basil, and cilantro do more than add flavor, they also have digestion-boosting properties and are rich in polyphenols that support immune health.
Avocado: Creamy and rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, avocado brings satisfying richness to an otherwise crisp bite.
Vermicelli Noodles: These provide just enough carbohydrates to make the rolls filling, without overwhelming the light, clean flavors of the other ingredients.

Even the sauces are crafted with mindfulness toward nutrition. Using nut butters as a base brings in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while ingredients like ginger and lime juice add immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

All in all, this recipe strikes a balance between flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s the kind of meal you can feel good about enjoying any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These rolls are incredibly versatile and work beautifully as:

A Light Lunch or Dinner: Pair them with miso soup or a chilled cucumber salad for a complete, nourishing meal.
An Elegant Appetizer: Serve at dinner parties or picnics alongside other Asian-inspired small plates like edamame, vegan potstickers, or seaweed salad.
Meal Prep Favorite: Wrapped tightly and stored properly, these rolls can last up to 2 days in the fridge, making them ideal for grab-and-go meals.
Interactive DIY Meals: Set up a summer roll bar and let family or guests customize their fillings and sauces. It’s a fun and interactive way to get everyone involved in the meal.

You can also tweak the recipe to suit different preferences. Add baked tofu strips or shredded jackfruit for protein, swap in spiralized zucchini instead of vermicelli for a low-carb version or add mango slices for a touch of tropical sweetness.

Pro Tips for Rolling Success

Making summer rolls can be a relaxing process once you get the hang of it. Here are a few helpful tips:

Soak Wisely: Don’t over-soak the rice paper. A quick dip (3–5 seconds) in warm water is all you need. It will continue to soften as you build the roll.
Avoid Overfilling: It’s tempting to pack in all the goodies, but overfilling can lead to tearing. Use modest amounts and roll tightly for best results.
Use a Damp Surface: A damp tea towel or silicone mat makes the perfect workspace for rolling. Dry surfaces can cause the rice paper to stick and tear.
Serve Fresh: These rolls are best eaten immediately to maintain their delicate texture. If storing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and keep them chilled.

Sustainability & Ingredient Swaps

What’s great about this recipe is that it encourages low-waste cooking and seasonal eating. You can easily substitute ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or what’s in season:

No bell pepper? Use radishes or zucchini strips.
Out of avocado? Try hummus or roasted red pepper spread for creaminess.
Can’t do peanuts or almonds? Sunflower seed butter or tahini work wonderfully in the sauces.

Plus, you’re reducing your carbon footprint by relying on plant-based ingredients and raw preparation methods, which require less energy and processing.

A Feast for the Eyes

One undeniable advantage of this dish is its visual appeal. The translucent rice paper allows the vivid colors of the vegetables to shine through, creating a rainbow effect on your plate. Garnish with sesame seeds, edible flowers, or microgreens for an extra touch of elegance. If you’re posting on social media or impressing dinner guests, this dish is always camera-ready.

Conclusion

Summer Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls are a true celebration of freshness, health, and versatility. With no cooking required and endless ways to customize, they are perfect for everyone from busy professionals seeking quick lunches to food lovers planning an impressive dinner spread. Each bite offers crisp veggies, aromatic herbs, and satisfying textures wrapped up in a healthy, gluten-free package.

Paired with creamy peanut sauce and bright almond-ginger dressing, these rolls check every box: beautiful, nutritious, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking to eat lighter, add more vegetables to your diet, or simply enjoy a refreshing, flavor-packed meal, this recipe is your go-to.

Bring the colors of summer to your plate and your palate, with these refreshing summer rolls. Simple ingredients. Big flavors. Zero guilt.

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