If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and invites you to enjoy all the bright tastes of summer, you simply must try this Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe. These rolls are endlessly refreshing, packing tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs all wrapped in delicate rice paper. Paired with a creamy, nutty dipping sauce that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes, this recipe is a celebration of texture and taste that’s light enough for warm weather but satisfying enough to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity; every ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the soft rice noodles that add subtle chew to the vibrant herbs that offer freshness, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- 12 (8-inch) round rice paper wrappers: These delicate papers form the perfect edible vessel without overpowering the fillings.
- 24 pieces of cooked shrimp, shelled and tails removed: Tender and slightly sweet seafood that provides the main protein and a satisfying bite.
- 4 ounces vermicelli rice noodles: Light and springy noodles that add a gentle texture contrast and soak up flavors.
- 3 small Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced: Crisp and refreshing, they bring cool crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 cup mixed greens or lettuce: Adds volume, color, and a mild leafy taste that balances the shrimp.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Offers a lively, citrusy note that brightens each roll.
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint: Injects a cool, aromatic freshness that makes every mouthful sing.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: Adds subtle onion-like flavor without overpowering the other herbs.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty, umami-rich base for the peanut dipping sauce.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Brings a tangy lift to the sauce, balancing its sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter: Creates a creamy, nutty foundation that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds natural sweetness that rounds out the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Provides a toasty crunch and a bit of nuttiness to the dipping sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic depth.
How to Make Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Vermicelli Noodles
Begin by preparing the vermicelli rice noodles as directed on the package. Once cooked, drain them well and rinse under cold water to cool and prevent clumping. These noodles will give your rolls lovely texture without overwhelming the delicate shrimp and veggies.
Step 2: Prepare Your Assembly Line
Set yourself up for success by arranging all your ingredients neatly—place the rice paper, shrimp, noodles, cucumbers, greens, and herbs in an assembly line. This way, rolling each summer roll becomes a breeze without scrambling to find each item. The rice papers require just a quick dip in warm water to become pliable but still sturdy enough to roll without breaking.
Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper
Fill a large bowl or shallow dish with warm water (not boiling) and soak one rice paper wrapper at a time for about five seconds. Lay it gently onto a clean surface like a cutting board where you’ll assemble your fillings. The rice paper will be soft but still have enough body to hold your fresh ingredients securely.
Step 4: Fill and Roll Your Summer Rolls
Now, the fun part! Place three shrimp evenly spaced on the bottom third of the wrapper, then add a quarter cup of cooled noodles, a handful of greens, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, mint, and chives. Roll the bottom edge up over the fillings, fold in the sides tightly, and keep rolling until fully wrapped, resembling a neat burrito. Repeat this process with remaining ingredients until you have a dozen gorgeous summer rolls.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Peanut Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, sesame seeds, and sesame oil. Whisk vigorously until smooth and slightly creamy. This sauce is the perfect marriage of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors that complements the fresh rolls and elevates every bite.
How to Serve Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop and add that extra flavor boost, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or finely chopped peanuts over your finished rolls. A wedge of lime on the side brightens the plate and allows guests to add a zesty twist. Fresh herbs like more mint or cilantro can be scattered around for a garden-fresh feel.
Side Dishes
Serve your Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe alongside a crisp Asian slaw or a light mango salad to keep the meal fresh and balanced. You could also add miso soup or steamed edamame for a heartier spread without overshadowing these light but flavorful rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the rolls in a colorful platter with edible flowers or on a bamboo leaf for a beautiful, restaurant-style presentation. Put the peanut dipping sauce in small individual bowls for dipping or drizzle it artistically over the rolls for an inviting look. Using chopsticks alongside adds authentic flair and makes the experience more interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap each Shrimp Summer Roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container to keep them moist and fresh. They’re best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal texture, as the rice paper can dry out with time.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp summer rolls is not recommended because the rice paper tends to become tough or soggy upon thawing, and the fresh vegetables lose their crispness. For best results, enjoy this recipe freshly made.
Reheating
Since these rolls are served fresh and not cooked after assembly, reheating is unnecessary. If you want to warm the noodles before rolling, do so gently before assembling to preserve the rolls’ refreshing texture.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Chicken strips, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work beautifully in summer rolls. Just be sure to cook and season your protein well before rolling to keep the flavors vibrant and balanced.
How do I prevent the rice paper from sticking together?
Make sure to work with one wrapper at a time and keep the others covered with a damp towel. When rolling, keep the rolls snug but not overly tight, and separate them with parchment paper if stacking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, simply omit the shrimp and load your rolls with extra vegetables like avocado, bell peppers, and marinated tofu. The peanut dipping sauce remains a perfect complement.
What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have an allergy?
You can use sunflower seed butter or tahini as an alternative. Both provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor, though the taste will vary slightly from classic peanut sauce.
How long do these summer rolls last?
Best enjoyed within a day or two when the rice paper is tender and fresh. The filling ingredients won’t spoil quickly but the texture of the roll is at its peak shortly after assembling.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making these vibrant, delicious Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe, I hope you’re as excited as I am to give them a try. They are truly one of those dishes that feel special yet come together so easily, perfect for summer gatherings or a light weeknight dinner. Dive into the layers of texture and flavor, and don’t be surprised if these become your go-to crowd-pleaser all season long.
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Shrimp Summer Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These refreshing Shrimp Summer Rolls are a delightful, light appetizer perfect for warm weather. Using delicate rice paper wrappers filled with cooked shrimp, vermicelli rice noodles, fresh cucumbers, mixed greens, and fragrant herbs, these rolls are paired with a deliciously tangy peanut-soy dipping sauce. Quick to assemble and bursting with fresh textures and flavors, they make an ideal healthy snack or party finger food.
Ingredients
Summer Rolls
- 12 (8-inch) round rice paper wrappers
- 24 pieces cooked shrimp, shelled and tails removed
- 4 ounces vermicelli rice noodles
- 3 small Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed greens or lettuce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Set aside.
- Prepare Assembly Area: Arrange your ingredients including rice paper wrappers, shrimp, noodles, cucumbers, mixed greens, and herbs on a clean surface or counter for easy assembly. Fill a large bowl with warm water, enough to submerge the rice paper sheets without boiling.
- Soften Rice Paper: Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 5 seconds until it softens but remains pliable. Carefully remove it and lay flat on a cutting board or clean surface.
- Assemble Rolls: On the softened rice paper, place 3 shrimp pieces, about 1/4 cup of cooled noodles, a few leaves of mixed greens, sliced cucumber, and a pinch of chopped cilantro, mint, and chives. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to form a sealed roll like a burrito. Repeat for remaining ingredients.
- Make Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, sesame seeds, and sesame oil until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Arrange the summer rolls on a serving platter and serve alongside the peanut-soy dipping sauce.
Notes
- Do not let rice paper soak for too long in water or it will tear.
- For best texture, use fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and chives to brighten flavors.
- You can substitute cooked shrimp with cooked tofu or chicken for variations.
- Serve immediately after rolling to prevent rice paper from becoming too sticky.
- The dipping sauce can be adjusted by adding chili flakes for heat or lime juice for extra tang.
