Name: Delicious Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (for smooth consistency); 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (adds sweetness and depth); 1 lime lime juice (freshly squeezed is best); 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (enhances umami flavors); water (add gradually until pourable); 4 ounces thin rice noodles (acts as the base); 1 medium cucumber (sliced thinly for crispness); 2 cups purple cabbage (shredded for color and crunch); 1 medium carrot (grated or sliced thinly); 1 medium red pepper (sliced thinly); 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped for flavor); 1/4 cup mint (fresh for cooling effect); 1/2 cup peanuts (for crunch; omit if allergic)

As I strolled through the bustling street markets of Vietnam, the vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas pulled me in. The freshness of herbs and crisp vegetables awakened my senses, inspiring me to recreate that experience at home. That’s how I stumbled upon this delightful Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce, a dish that channels the spirit of summer rolls without the fuss of rolling. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this vegetarian salad combines tender rice noodles, crunchy veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing that ties everything together. It’s not just hassle-free; it’s also a vibrant way to enjoy a lighter meal, making it perfect for lunch or a refreshing dinner. Ready to bring the essence of Vietnam to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Spring Roll Salad is an effortless way to enjoy the flavors of Vietnam without the labor of rolling.

Fresh and Flavorful: Crisp veggies and aromatic herbs come together for a vegetable-packed delight that excites the palate.

Creamy Peanut Sauce Perfection: The rich peanut dressing provides a decadent balance to the salad, enhancing every ingredient.

Versatile Options: Easily customize this salad by adding proteins like shrimp or tofu, or experimenting with different nuts for crunch.

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for lunch or a light weeknight dinner—ideal for busy days when you still want to eat well.

Explore more fresh ideas like this with our Chickpea Edamame Salad or try a comforting dish like Turkish Eggs with Creamy Yogurt Butter Sauce.

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Ingredients

• Dive into the freshness with these essential ingredients!

For the Dressing

Peanut Butter – Provides creaminess and a nutty flavor; use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest consistency.
Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with brown sugar if necessary.
Lime Juice – Offers acidity to balance flavors; freshly squeezed lime juice is always best.
Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavors; opt for low-sodium for a healthier spin.
Water – Used to achieve the desired dressing consistency; add gradually until it’s pourable.

For the Salad

Thin Rice Noodles – Acts as the base; you can use rice sticks or pad Thai noodles for great results.
Cucumber – Adds refreshing crunch; slicing thinly maximizes crispness.
Purple Cabbage – Provides color and crunch; cole slaw mix can be a quick substitute if time is short.
Carrot – Introduces sweetness and texture; grate or slice thinly for best results.
Red Pepper – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color; slice thinly to blend seamlessly with other veggies.
Cilantro – Adds freshness and is crucial for authentic flavor; use chopped for the best taste.
Mint – Offers a cooling effect, enhancing freshness; fresh mint should be your go-to.
Peanuts – Adds satisfying crunch; feel free to omit if allergies are a concern.

Embrace the delicious flavors of this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce and enjoy a meal that celebrates freshness and vibrant taste!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Cook Noodles
Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add the thin rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically about 4–6 minutes, until tender yet chewy. During the last minute, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to halt cooking, setting them aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, the juice of 1 lime, 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, and a splash of water. As you mix, gradually add water until the dressing reaches a thin, pourable consistency. Taste the dressing and adjust flavors as needed, keeping it balanced and creamy for your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce.

Step 3: Combine Salad
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled rice noodles, thinly sliced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced red pepper. Mix in the chopped cilantro and fresh mint to introduce aromatic flavors. Gently toss the ingredients together, ensuring they are evenly distributed and well-combined for a colorful, vibrant Spring Roll Salad.

Step 4: Dress Salad
Drizzle your delicious peanut dressing over the salad mixture. Using tongs or large utensils, toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are well coated in the creamy sauce. The dressing should cling to each ingredient, creating a cohesive and delectable Spring Roll Salad. Adjust with more dressing if you prefer a richer flavor.

Step 5: Garnish
Before serving, sprinkle a handful of chopped peanuts over the top of your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce. This adds an extra crunch and enhances the nutty flavors of the dish. If desired, garnish with additional fresh herbs or lime wedges for a burst of color and freshness that will entice your guests and elevate your meal.

What to Serve with Vietnamese-Inspired Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Sauce

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience by complementing your vibrant salad with these satisfying side dishes and drinks.

Crispy Tofu Bites: Crunchy on the outside and tender within, these bites manage to soak up flavors beautifully, making them an excellent protein addition.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, the subtle flavor of chicken aligns perfectly with the fresh elements of the salad, adding a hearty touch.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful and crunchy, a medley of stir-fried veggies like bell peppers and snow peas provides satisfying textures, enhancing the overall meal.
Mango Salad: The sweet and tangy notes of a mango salad amplify the freshness of your Spring Roll Salad, creating an enjoyable contrast in flavor.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: The bold, rich notes of this coffee serve as a perfect pick-me-up, cooling down the palate after enjoying the salad’s vibrant flavors.
Lychee Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, lychee sorbet with its fruity essence perfectly cleanses the palate, offering a sweet finishing touch to your meal.
Sesame Ginger Dressing Greens: Drizzling a bowl of mixed greens with sesame ginger dressing adds another layer of flavor, seamlessly tying into the salad’s Asian-inspired theme.
Boba Tea: A chewy, sweet treat served as a drink, boba tea brings fun and flavor to the table, balancing the nutritious elements of your meal and making it more exciting.

Helpful Tricks for Spring Roll Salad

Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep a close eye on your rice noodles; they can turn mushy if overcooked. Check for doneness after just a few minutes.
Adjust Dressing Consistency: If your peanut sauce is too thick, add water gradually until it’s pourable. A well-balanced dressing makes all the difference in your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce.
Customize Flavor and Crunch: Experiment with protein options like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and try adding different veggies such as snap peas or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and mint are key to an authentic Vietnamese taste. Don’t skimp on these; they elevate the overall flavor of your salad!
Store Dressing Separately: If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Variations

Feel free to customize this vibrant salad to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Protein-Packed: Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy tofu for heartiness and extra flavor.
Nutty Alternatives: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for diverse flavor profiles and allergen-friendly options.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate other veggies like scallions, snap peas, or radishes for an exciting crunch that elevates the salad.
Spicy Twist: Mix in some sriracha or chili flakes to the dressing for a kick of heat that balances the salad’s creamy flavors. It’s a perfect way to spice things up!
Herb Variation: Try using fresh basil or Thai basil instead of cilantro and mint for a unique twist that brings a different flavor to your dish.
Asian Fusion: Add in some sesame oil and chopped sesame seeds in the dressing for an added depth of flavor that’s beautifully nutty and fragrant.
Sweet Touch: Toss in some mango or pineapple chunks for a juicy sweetness that complements the crunchy veggies and creamy peanut sauce perfectly.

Looking for more ways to enjoy fresh ingredients? Try our delicious Chickpea Edamame Salad or indulge in a comforting dish like Peanut Butter Greek Yogurt Bites!

How to Store and Freeze Spring Roll Salad

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad due to the crunchy vegetables; however, if needed, you can freeze noodles and any proteins separately for up to 1 month.

Reheating: If you have stored noodles, reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Toss with fresh veggies and dressing before serving.

Preparation Tips: For meal prep, consider making the Spring Roll Salad and dressing on the same day, enjoying the freshest flavors for 2-3 days afterward.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce serve as a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the salad mix (noodles, sliced veggies, and herbs) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and crisp. To maintain the best quality, wait to add the creamy peanut dressing until just before serving, as this prevents the ingredients from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, toss the salad with the dressing, sprinkle with chopped peanuts, and savor the vibrant flavors of this quick, healthy dish—just as satisfying as when it’s freshly made!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right vegetables for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for crunchy, fresh vegetables. Choose cucumbers with smooth skin and no dark spots, vibrant red peppers, and crisp purple cabbage. For carrots, select firm ones without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Spring Roll Salad?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to keep the dressing separate until the moment you’re ready to enjoy it to maintain that fresh crunch!

Can I freeze the Spring Roll Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing the entire salad, as the veggies will lose their crunch and texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the thin rice noodles and any proteins separately for up to 1 month. When ready to use, simply reheat the noodles and serve with fresh veggies and dressing.

What if my peanut sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your peanut sauce is too thick, gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, while whisking until it reaches your desired pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – it should be creamy but not overly thick.

Are there any allergens I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! The Spring Roll Salad contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to inform your guests if you are serving it. You can also substitute peanut butter with alternatives like almond or sunflower seed butter for those with nut allergies.

Can I make this salad vegan or gluten-free?
Very much! To make this salad vegan, use a vegan hoisin sauce and substitute honey with maple syrup if sweetness is desired. For gluten-free options, simply choose gluten-free soy sauce to keep it safe for those avoiding gluten. Enjoy the flexibility this salad offers!