If you are craving something fresh, vibrant, and downright delicious, these Shrimp Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe are here to brighten up your day. Imagine tender shrimp paired with crisp vegetables and silky vermicelli noodles, all lovingly wrapped in delicate rice paper and dipped into a luscious, nutty peanut sauce that bursts with flavor. This dish combines textures and tastes in perfect harmony, making it an ideal appetizer, light lunch, or party favorite that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal tray holds several fresh vegetable layers neatly arranged: bright orange carrot sticks top left, light green butter lettuce leaves top center, dark purple shredded cabbage center left, dark green cucumber sticks bottom left, bright red sliced bell peppers center right, and bright yellow sliced bell peppers bottom right, with a small bunch of fresh mint and jalapeno slices near the red bell peppers. To the right of the tray is a glass container filled with smooth brown peanut sauce. Below the tray is a white plate holding a pile of white rice noodles on the right and orange and white cooked shrimp on the left. To the left of the plate are stacked translucent white rice paper sheets resting on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to mastering this Shrimp Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe. Each component serves a purpose, whether it’s the crunch from fresh veggies, the subtle sweetness of shrimp, or the rich creaminess of the peanut sauce. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

1/2 lb precooked shrimp: Provides a tender, protein-packed base that’s quick and easy to prepare.
8 rice paper sheets: These delicate wraps hold everything together and soften just right after soaking.
3 oz vermicelli rice noodles: Adds a chewy, satisfying texture that plays well with the veggies and shrimp.
1 cup butter lettuce: Offers a fresh, leafy crunch that keeps each bite light and refreshing.
2 large carrots, peeled and julienned: Adds sweetness and vibrant orange color that’s visually inviting.
1/2 large cucumber, julienned: Brings a cool, hydrating crunch that balances the richer ingredients.
1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper or red cabbage: Introduces a pop of color and subtle earthiness.
Other additional fillings (cilantro, mint, green onions, jalapeño, mango, avocado): Customize with your favorite fresh herbs and fruits for extra layers of flavor.
1/3 cup natural peanut butter: The star of the dipping sauce, lending creaminess and nuttiness.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos): Adds umami and depth to the sauce, plus a touch of saltiness.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances the richness with a bright, tangy note.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses a warm, toasty aroma in both noodles and sauce.
Juice from one lime: Uplifts the sauce with fresh acidity.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Delivers a subtle kick and complexity.
1 teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty warmth that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Provides a touch of sweetness to harmonize the sauce.
1/4-1/2 teaspoon Sriracha or red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a gentle spicy bite in their dipping sauce.
2 tablespoons water: Helps thin the peanut sauce to a perfect dipping consistency.

How to Make Shrimp Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Vermicelli Noodles

Start by boiling a medium pot of water and cooking the vermicelli noodles just until al dente according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the noodles lightly with 1 to 2 teaspoons of sesame oil to prevent sticking while enhancing their flavor — this little touch makes a big difference in taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Peel tails off precooked shrimp or cook raw shrimp if you prefer. They should be cool and ready to roll, so keep them chilled until use. Shrimp’s mild sweetness picks up the other fresh flavors beautifully, so no need to over-season them here.

Step 3: Cut the Vegetables

Julienne your carrots, cucumber, and any additional veggies like red bell pepper or cabbage into thin, uniform strips. This not only ensures a neat roll but gives each bite a delightful crunch and burst of color. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can be torn and added for extra aromatic interest.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Sauce

Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, minced garlic and ginger, honey, Sriracha, and water in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste — you want it rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and with a little heat. This sauce is what turns your spring rolls into something truly special.

Step 5: Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish or sauté pan with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable. Place it carefully on a damp tea towel to keep it from sticking and tearing.

Step 6: Assemble the Rolls

Arrange a small bundle of vermicelli noodles, lettuce, shrimp, and vegetables in the center of the softened rice paper, leaving about an inch margin on each side. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, fold in the sides, then roll tightly upward to enclose everything. Repeat with remaining sheets and ingredients.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve the spring rolls fresh alongside the vibrant peanut sauce. These are best enjoyed right away when the rice paper is tender but still slightly chewy and the fillings are crisp and full of flavor.

How to Serve Shrimp Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe

A white round plate with small black speckles holds two main layers side by side: on the left, a pile of cooked shrimp, showing bright orange and white colors with a slightly shiny, firm texture; on the right, a nest of thin white rice noodles, soft and lightly tangled, forming a delicate, wispy layer. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a sprinkling of chopped peanuts or toasted sesame seeds over the dipping sauce for added crunch and visual appeal. Thin slices of red chili or fresh herbs also make beautiful garnishes that complement the rolls’ flavor and aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair these rolls with light sides like a crisp Asian cucumber salad or a bowl of hot miso soup to round out your meal. The freshness of the rolls combined with a warm broth or tangy salad is a match made in heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these spring rolls whole or slicing them in half to showcase the colorful fillings for a stunning appetizer platter. You can also provide individual dipping bowls to let each guest enjoy their own personalized peanut sauce experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover spring rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within 24 hours to keep the rice paper from drying out or becoming too sticky.

Freezing

Spring rolls with such fresh ingredients don’t freeze well because the texture of the vegetables and rice paper can be compromised. It’s best to prepare fresh batches when needed for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

Since these spring rolls are meant to be served fresh and cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy any leftovers chilled or bring ingredients together for a quick remake.

FAQs

Can I make these spring rolls vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp and fill the rolls with tofu, extra veggies, or plant-based protein alternatives. Use tamari or coconut aminos in the peanut sauce to keep it gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

What are some good alternatives to rice paper?

Rice paper is really unique for these rolls due to its lightness and ability to soften without cooking, but for a twist, you could try large lettuce leaves (like butter or iceberg) as wraps for a less chewy option.

How spicy is the peanut sauce?

The amount of Sriracha or red pepper flakes is adjustable to your heat preference. You can leave it out entirely for a mild sauce or add more for a spicier kick.

Can I prepare the peanut sauce in advance?

Yes, the peanut sauce actually tastes great when made ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week and bring it to room temperature or give it a quick stir before serving.

How do I prevent the rice paper from sticking when rolling?

Using a damp tea towel beneath the rice paper helps prevent sticking. Also, don’t soak the rice paper for too long – it should be soft and flexible but not overly soggy, which makes it more prone to tearing.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried this Shrimp Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce Recipe yet, you’re in for a delightful surprise. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate, combining fresh ingredients with a zingy, creamy sauce that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just craving something healthy and tasty, these spring rolls are a joyous, satisfying choice that’s as fun to make as they are to eat.