Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce: A Vibrant & Crunchy Delight 🌈🥬✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a healthy, colorful, and delicious appetizer or light meal? These Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are exactly what you need! Packed with fresh, crisp vegetables and wrapped in delicate rice paper, these rolls are as beautiful as they are tasty. The creamy, tangy peanut sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish irresistible. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a summer gathering, or just craving something nutritious, these gluten-free and vegan-friendly spring rolls are sure to impress. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins. Ready to create this vibrant dish? Let’s dive in!

2. Ingredients

• For the Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls:
• 8-10 rice paper wrappers
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup fresh cilantro or mint leaves
• 1 cup vermicelli rice noodles (optional)
• Warm water (for softening rice paper)

• For the Peanut Sauce:
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp grated ginger
• 2-3 tbsp warm water (to thin as needed)

If you’re looking for more protein-packed recipes, check out our Protein-Packed Overnight Oats or these Spinach and Feta Egg Muffins for meal prep inspiration!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Julienne the carrots and cucumber into thin, uniform strips—this ensures even rolling and a perfect bite every time. Thinly slice the red and yellow bell peppers for a pop of color, and shred the purple cabbage for extra crunch. Don’t forget to slice the avocado just before assembling to prevent browning. If you’re using rice noodles, cook them according to the package instructions, then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your spring rolls.

Step 2: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish or pie plate with warm water—not too hot, or it will make the rice paper too sticky. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, rotating to ensure even softening. The wrapper should be pliable but still slightly firm when you remove it—it will continue to soften as you work. Carefully lay it flat on a clean, damp kitchen towel or a non-stick surface like a cutting board. Pro tip: work with one wrapper at a time to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Spring Rolls

Now comes the fun part—assembling your rainbow creation! Place a small handful of prepared vegetables, herbs, and optional rice noodles near the bottom third of the softened rice paper. Be careful not to overfill—about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling works best. For a beautiful presentation, alternate colors as you layer the ingredients. Gently fold the sides inward, then tightly roll from the bottom up, keeping the filling snug but not so tight that the wrapper tears. The rice paper is sticky, so it should seal itself as you roll. Repeat until all ingredients are used, aiming for 8-10 spring rolls total.

For more colorful meal ideas, try our Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower or this vibrant Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta!

Step 4: Make the Peanut Sauce & Serve

The peanut sauce is what takes these spring rolls from good to absolutely irresistible! In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger until smooth. Add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency—it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough for dipping. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sesame oil. Arrange your Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls on a platter and serve with the peanut sauce on the side. For an extra special presentation, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.

For more delicious dipping sauce ideas, check out this inspiring recipe from Minimalist Baker!

4. Tips for Perfect Spring Rolls

• Don’t over-soak the rice paper—it will continue to soften as you assemble. Better slightly firm than too soft!
• Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture. Older veggies can make your rolls soggy.
• Keep a damp towel nearby to prevent rice paper from sticking to your work surface.
• Customize with protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken for added heartiness. Try our Baked Cod with Lemon Herb Crust for protein inspiration!
• Work quickly once the rice paper is softened to prevent tearing.

5. Variations & Substitutions

• Swap the peanut sauce for hoisin, sweet chili, or tahini dressing if you have nut allergies.
• Add mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the savory veggies.
• Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option—butter lettuce works particularly well.
• Try different herbs like Thai basil or parsley for unique flavor profiles.
• Add crunch with crushed peanuts or Roasted Chickpeas inside the rolls.

6. Serving Suggestions

These Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls are incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• Pair with a light Asian-inspired salad for a complete meal
• Serve with edamame or miso soup for an authentic Asian dining experience
• Add fresh fruit like our Frozen Yogurt Bark for dessert
• Enjoy with a refreshing Green Tea Smoothie for a healthy beverage pairing
• Serve as part of a brunch spread with our Hearty London Breakfast Plate

7. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. They’ll keep for about 24 hours in the fridge.
• Best eaten within 24 hours for optimal freshness and texture.
• Prepare the peanut sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to 5 days—the flavors actually improve over time!
• Prep vegetables in advance and store them separately for quick assembly when needed.
• If making for a party, assemble no more than 2 hours before serving for best results.

8. Health Benefits

These Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls aren’t just pretty—they’re packed with nutrition:

• High in fiber from fresh vegetables, which aids digestion and keeps you full.
• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K from the colorful array of produce.
• Healthy fats from avocado and peanut sauce support brain health.
• Low in calories yet satisfying, making them great for weight management.
• Hydrating thanks to the high water content in cucumbers and peppers.
• Antioxidant-rich from all the colorful plant compounds.

9. Conclusion

These Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce are truly a feast for all the senses! Not only do they look stunning with their vibrant colors, but they also deliver incredible fresh flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite. The creamy peanut sauce adds the perfect rich contrast to the light, crisp vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a healthy appetizer, a light lunch, or a colorful addition to your meal prep rotation, these spring rolls are sure to become a favorite. They’re perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or anytime you want to eat the rainbow. Plus, they’re so fun to make—get the whole family involved in rolling their own creations! Once you try this recipe, you might find yourself making them weekly. For more delicious and healthy recipes, don’t forget to check out our Protein Ice Cream for dessert! Now go enjoy your beautiful, nutritious Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls—your body (and your Instagram) will thank you! 🌈🥢✨

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