These fresh spring rolls are a vibrant twist with tender salmon and crunchy veggies wrapped inside rice paper. They come with a creamy peanut sauce that’s just the icing on the cake!
Making these rolls is like being a sushi chef at home! 😄 I love to chop up my favorite veggies and get creative with fillings. They’re light, healthy, and a hit at any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are essential for spring rolls, adding a delicate wrap. If you can’t find them, use thin tortillas, but they won’t have the same texture or flavor.
Salmon: Fresh salmon is perfect, but if you want a different flavor, try shrimp or grilled chicken. Also, choose sushi-grade salmon if serving raw for safety.
Cucumber and Carrot: These veggies add crunch and freshness. If you’re out of cucumber, zucchini works well. Substitute carrots with bell peppers or radishes for a different taste.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro brighten the rolls. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, swap it for basil. For additional herbs, consider parsley or dill.
Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for smooth sauce. If you have a nut allergy, try sunflower seed butter or tahini as alternatives.
How Do I Properly Assemble Spring Rolls Without Breaking Them?
Assembling spring rolls can be a little tricky, but it’s all about handling the rice paper with care. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dip the rice paper in warm water for just 10-15 seconds. Don’t soak too long, or it’ll tear.
- Lay the wrapper flat on a clean surface. Make sure it’s soft but still holds shape.
- Place your fillings on the lower third, making sure not to overstuff. Less is more here!
- Fold the sides in and then roll tightly from the bottom up. This helps keep everything snug.
- Keep a damp cloth nearby to cover uncooked wrappers to prevent them from drying out.
With practice, you’ll get the hang of it and create beautiful spring rolls every time!
How to Make Salmon Fresh Spring Rolls With Peanut Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spring Rolls:
- 8 sheets rice paper wrappers
- 200g (7 oz) fresh salmon fillet, thinly sliced or lightly seared if preferred
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 100g rice vermicelli noodles, cooked according to package instructions and cooled
- Optional: sliced green chili or jalapeño for a bit of heat
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin out sauce)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Crushed roasted peanuts for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 20 minutes to prep and make, plus some extra time if you decide to chill the rolls before serving. The assembly is simple and quick, and it’s a fun way to enjoy fresh ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by julienning the cucumber and carrot, and thinly slice the red cabbage. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and rinse them under cold water to cool off. If you’d like a cooked option, lightly sear the salmon fillet in a hot pan for about 1-2 minutes on each side, otherwise, you can use the salmon raw by slicing it thinly.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, you can add honey or maple syrup. Mix well until smooth. Gradually add warm water, stirring until your sauce reaches your favorite dipping consistency. Set it aside and sprinkle some crushed peanuts and toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving for that extra crunch!
3. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Take one rice paper wrapper and dip it into the water for about 10-15 seconds, or just until it’s soft but not overly floppy. Lay it flat on a clean surface. On the lower third of the wrapper, place a small handful of rice vermicelli noodles, several slices of salmon, some cucumber, carrot, red cabbage, and a few fresh mint and cilantro leaves. For an added kick, toss in some slices of green chili or jalapeño. Now, fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then tightly roll it from the bottom up to completely enclose everything. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and ingredients.
4. Serve:
Once all your rolls are assembled, arrange them on a pretty plate. Serve immediately with the peanut dipping sauce. To make it even fancier, you can garnish the plate with extra fresh herbs and lime wedges for squeezing over the rolls.
Enjoy these refreshing and vibrant salmon spring rolls paired with a rich and tangy peanut sauce! They’re a delightful appetizer or light meal that celebrates fresh flavors and textures.
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Salmon?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any protein you choose is cut into thin slices for easy wrapping.
How Do I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge, ideally consumed within 1-2 days for the best texture. To prevent them from drying out, you can place a damp paper towel between the rolls and cover the container tightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice Paper Wrappers?
If you can’t find rice paper wrappers, you can use thin tortillas as an alternative, though they won’t provide the same texture and flavor. Additionally, large lettuce leaves can work for a low-carb option!
Can I Make the Peanut Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the peanut sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir and add a splash of warm water before serving to reach your desired consistency.