Name: Fresh Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce; 2 tablespoons Lime juice (or lemon juice); 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free ); 1/4 cup Water (to adjust consistency); 4 ounces Thin rice noodles (prepared as per package instructions); 1 cup Cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 cup Purple cabbage, thinly sliced (or coleslaw mix); 1 cup Carrot, grated or thinly sliced; 1 cup Red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley); 1/4 cup Fresh mint, chopped (or basil); 1/4 cup Chopped peanuts (optional)

As I whisk together the creamy peanut sauce, the fragrant aroma fills my kitchen, transporting me to a bustling street market in Southeast Asia. This Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce is a delightful creation that embodies the essence of fresh, vibrant ingredients, all without the fuss of rolling individual spring rolls. In just a few easy steps, you can whip up this colorful dish packed with crisp vegetables and chewy rice noodles, making it not only quick and hassle-free but also completely customizable to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a light, vegetarian-friendly meal or simply a way to elevate your salad game, this recipe is your ticket. Curious to see how the flavors come together in this delightful bowl of freshness? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is this salad a game changer?

Freshness at Its Core: This Spring Roll Salad bursts with vibrant colors from crisp veggies and fragrant herbs, ensuring each bite is a refreshing experience.

Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation, you can enjoy this salad in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Totally Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients according to your pantry; you can try variations like adding grilled shrimp or mixing in fresh herbs from your garden.

Nutritious Delight: Packed with 340 calories, 10g of protein, and rich in vitamins, it’s a guilt-free option that won’t compromise your health goals.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy peanut sauce pulls everything together in a delightful harmony—your family or guests will be coming back for seconds! For a culinary twist, check out my Egg Breakfast Roll for more easy meal ideas!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Ingredients

For the Peanut Dressing:

Creamy peanut butter – Adds richness and creaminess; you can use almond butter for a nut-free variation.
Hoisin sauce – Provides a sweet and savory base; if unavailable, brown sugar can be a suitable substitute.
Lime juice – Adds acidity and brightness; feel free to substitute with lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Soy sauce – Enhances umami flavor; tamari works great for a gluten-free option.
Water – Adjusts the dressing’s consistency; add sparingly to reach your desired thickness.

For the Salad:

Thin rice noodles – The base of the salad offering a chewy texture; prepare as per package instructions.
Cucumber, thinly sliced – Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch to every bite.
Purple cabbage, thinly sliced (or coleslaw mix) – Adds color and a boost of nutrients to the salad.
Carrot, grated or thinly sliced – Contributions sweetness and an additional layer of crunch.
Red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Infuses sweetness and vibrant color into the dish.
Fresh cilantro, chopped – Explodes flavor with herbal notes; consider using parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
Fresh mint, chopped – Enhances the spring roll essence; swapping with basil can create a lovely twist.
Chopped peanuts (optional) – Adds extra crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

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

Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the thin rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3–5 minutes, until they’re tender yet still chewy. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander, rinsing them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the noodles aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, hoisin sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, and ¼ cup of water. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it’s smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency by adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed. Your goal is a pourable dressing that will coat the salad beautifully when you combine it with the spring roll salad ingredients.

Step 3: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice noodles, thinly sliced cucumber, purple cabbage, grated carrot, and red bell pepper. Gently fold in the chopped cilantro and fresh mint, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. The vibrant colors of your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce should start to shine through as you mix in the crunchy veggies with the chewy noodles.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Drizzle the creamy peanut dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, carefully toss everything together until each component is evenly coated with the dressing. The rich sauce should cling to the fresh ingredients, enhancing their natural flavors and creating a harmonious blend that makes this salad irresistible.

Step 5: Serve or Chill
For immediate enjoyment, divide the salad into serving bowls and garnish with chopped peanuts for added crunch if desired. If you prefer a more melded flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief rest will allow the vibrant flavors of the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce to deepen, creating a refreshing, delicious dish perfect for any occasion.

What to Serve with Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce?

A vibrant Spring Roll Salad deserves equally delightful companions to create a well-rounded meal you’ll savor.

Crispy Tofu Bites: These provide a savory crunch and protein boost, making for a comforting contrast to the fresh salad.
Coconut Rice: Sweet and fluffy, coconut rice complements the creamy peanut sauce and enhances the overall flavor profile with a tropical twist.
Miso Soup: A warm, soothing broth that offers a gentle umami flavor, perfectly balancing the light, refreshing salad.
Asian Slaw: With its tangy dressing and crunch, this slaw pairs well by mirroring the fresh ingredients found in the Spring Roll Salad.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Smoky and succulent, shrimp enhances the dish’s protein content and adds a delightful char that harmonizes beautifully with the peanut flavors.
Chili Lime Corn: The sweetness and zest of corn prepared with chili and lime elevate the meal, providing a burst of flavor to match the salad’s vibrant tones.

Enjoy a chilled glass of Lychee Iced Tea alongside to refresh your palate and embrace the refreshing notes of this delightful meal!

Expert Tips for Spring Roll Salad

Keep It Crisp: Store the dressing separately until ready to serve. This keeps the fresh veggies from becoming soggy and maintains their delightful crunch.
Adjust Consistency: If your peanut sauce thickens too much, whisk in warm water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired creamy texture for the Spring Roll Salad.
Noodle Care: Over-soaking the rice noodles can make them gummy. Follow package instructions closely and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Flavor Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to mix up your ingredients! Swap in different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. This dish is all about customization.
Garnish Wisely: Consider topping with sesame seeds or extra herbs for an added flavor boost that enhances your Spring Roll Salad beautifully.

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this delicious recipe to suit your palates and dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a safer option. You won’t miss a beat with the incredible flavors!
Add Protein: Toss in grilled shrimp or marinated tofu to make it more filling and wholesome. They’ll lend delectable flavors while enhancing the salad’s texture.
Herb Alternatives: Swap out cilantro for zesty basil or fresh parsley, depending on your taste preferences. Each herb offers a unique twist to the flavor profile!
Extra Crunch: Use waffle-cut cucumbers or add toasted sesame seeds for an irresistible texture explosion. You’ll love how these little details transform your salad.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle some sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the peanut dressing if you’re after an extra fiery taste. It’s an easy way to amplify the heat!
Seasonal Veggies: Experiment by adding seasonal favorites like shredded Brussels sprouts for a winter touch or ripe tomatoes for a burst of color. Each season brings new possibilities!
Colorful Slaw: Try using a mix of rainbow veggies, like purple carrots and yellow bell peppers, to create a vibrant display. Your salad will not only taste great, but it will look stunning too!

For additional meal inspiration, check out my Thai Peanut Chicken for a delightful pairing or check out the vibrant flavors in my California Roll Sushi. Dive in and explore!

How to Store and Freeze Spring Roll Salad

Fridge: Store the Spring Roll Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep your veggies crisp, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the fresh vegetables will lose their texture and flavor when thawed. However, any leftover dressing can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you’ve stored the salad, enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may wilt the greens and change the dressing’s consistency.

Serving Tips: For the freshest taste, prepare and enjoy your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce soon after making, ensuring every bite remains a delightful crunch!

Make Ahead Options

These Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components, such as the rice noodles, sliced veggies, and chopped herbs, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook and cool the noodles, then refrigerate the prepared vegetables in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. The peanut dressing can also be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days; this keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to serve, combine the chilled salad ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle on the dressing, toss, and enjoy a quick, nutrient-packed meal that’s just as delicious as when you first made it!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of peanuts should I use for the salad?
I recommend using roasted and unsalted peanuts to avoid overwhelming the dish with salt. Chopped or crushed peanuts work well, adding a delightful crunch. You can also substitute them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option!

How can I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
Store the Spring Roll Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep the peanut dressing in a separate container until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the veggies. This way, they will stay fresh and crunchy for every delicious bite!

Can I freeze the leftover peanut sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze the peanut dressing in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy access later. When you want to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or heat it gently on the stove with a splash of water to return its creamy consistency.

What if the rice noodles get too sticky?
If your rice noodles become sticky, a quick rinse with cold water right after cooking will help separate them. Just be cautious not to over-soak them! Also, ensure to use enough water when cooking and stir occasionally during the cooking process to keep them from clumping together.

Can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes! This Spring Roll Salad is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring you use plant-based products for the hoisin sauce and checking that your soy sauce is gluten-free if needed. It’s a versatile dish that caters to many dietary preferences!

Is this salad safe for pets?
While the salad ingredients are great for humans, be cautious with sharing! Peanut butter is generally safe for dogs in small amounts, but avoid giving them any sauces or dressings, as they may contain ingredients harmful to pets, like garlic or onion. Always check the ingredients before treating our furry friends!