Name: Delicious Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing You’ll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 oz Rice noodles (soft base); 2 cups Shredded lettuce (for crunch); 1 cup Shredded carrots (for sweetness); 1 medium Cucumber, julienned (for coolness); 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped (for flavor); 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for freshness); 1/4 cup Chopped peanuts (for crunch); 1 medium Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (for color); 2 stalks Green onions, sliced (for onion flavor); 2 tbsp Hoisin sauce (for sweetness); 1/4 cup Peanut butter (for creaminess); 2 tbsp Soy sauce (for salinity); 2 tbsp Rice vinegar (for tanginess); 1 tbsp Lime juice (for zest); 1 tsp Sesame oil (for aroma); 1 tbsp Sugar (to balance acidity); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (for boldness); 1 tbsp Grated ginger (for complexity); 1/2 tsp Chili flakes (for heat)

Whispers of springtime filled the air as I harvested fresh herbs from my garden, their vibrant greens begging to be featured in a bright dish. This is the moment that inspired my Vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing, a delightful blend of crunch and freshness that’s perfect for celebrating warmer weather. This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes, but it’s also gluten-free and customizable to cater to every palate. Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch or planning a colorful dinner for guests, this salad checks all the boxes. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together while packing in wholesome ingredients. So, are you ready to elevate your salad game and dive into this refreshing blend of flavors?

What makes this salad a must-try?

Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: This salad bursts with crunchy veggies and aromatic herbs that bring life to your table.

Easy to Customize: Add your favorite proteins or vegetables for a dish that suits every taste, whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover.

Quick and Convenient: In just 30 minutes, you can have a healthy, satisfying meal that saves you from the fast food rut.

Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy this dish knowing it’s not only delicious, but also gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

Perfect for Sharing: Impress your family or guests with a salad that’s not just visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser!

Spring Roll Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Rice noodles – The soft base for this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing, providing a subtle texture.
• Shredded lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of green to the mix.
• Shredded carrots – Infuses sweetness and vibrant color, making each bite delightful.
• Cucumber, julienned – Offers a cool, crispy contrast that enhances the freshness of the salad.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped – Brightens up the flavor profile with its herbaceous notes.
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped – Introduces a refreshing aromatic touch, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped peanuts – Delivers satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness that complements the dressing.
• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and a splash of color to the vibrant salad.
• Green onions, sliced – Provides a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall depth of taste.

For the Dressing
• Hoisin sauce – Brings a sweet and umami richness that ties all the flavors together.
• Peanut butter – The creamy foundation of the dressing, adding delicious nuttiness.
• Soy sauce – Offers a savory salinity that balances the sweetness of the dressing.
• Rice vinegar – Adds essential tanginess to brighten the entire dish.
• Lime juice – Provides a zesty burst that elevates the dressing’s flavor.
• Sesame oil – Contributes a warm, nutty aroma that enhances the dressing’s character.
• Sugar – Helps to mellow out the dressing’s acidity for a harmonious taste.
• Garlic, minced – Infuses the dressing with aromatic boldness for depth.
• Grated ginger – Adds a warm, spicy complexity that’s simply irresistible.
• Chili flakes – Provides a gentle heat, making the dressing more exciting without overwhelming.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rice noodles and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Then, set them aside in a large bowl to cool.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies
While the noodles are cooling, take a large mixing bowl and add the shredded lettuce, grated carrots, and julienned cucumber. Next, toss in the chopped cilantro, mint leaves, chopped peanuts, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and the sliced green onions. Gently mix all these vibrant vegetables together to ensure an even distribution.

Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together your dressing ingredients for the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing. Combine hoisin sauce, creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Adjust the Dressing
Taste your peanut dressing and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you want a tangier flavor, feel free to add a bit more lime juice, or for added savory depth, incorporate a dash of soy sauce. Mix until combined, ensuring it fits your flavor profile perfectly.

Step 5: Combine the Salad and Dressing
Pour the creamy peanut dressing over the bowl filled with the chopped vegetables. Using a pair of tongs, gently toss the salad components together, ensuring every piece is coated with the delicious dressing. This step will help the flavors meld while keeping your veggies crisp.

Step 6: Incorporate the Rice Noodles
Carefully add the cooled rice noodles to the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure the noodles are well integrated with the vibrant veggie mix and creamy peanut dressing. You want your Spring Roll Salad to have a delightful, cohesive texture that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Immediately after mixing, serve the salad in individual bowls. For a decorative touch, garnish each serving with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra crunch and flavor to each vibrant serving.

What to Serve with Vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing

This bright and zesty salad is just the beginning of a delightful dining experience, inviting fresh flavors and satisfying textures to your table.

Crispy Spring Rolls: Pair these delicious rolls with your salad for a crunchy and savory addition that echoes the salad’s Asian-inspired flavors. A perfect match for a light lunch or dinner!
Grilled Shrimp: The smoky, charred flavor of grilled shrimp adds a protein punch, complementing the fresh veggies and creamy dressing beautifully. It elevates the salad into a complete meal, ideal for warm evenings.
Mango and Avocado Salad: A tropical side salad boosted with creamy avocado and sweet mango enhances the freshness while providing contrasting textures. Each bite feels like a sunny getaway!
Spicy Edamame: Lightly salted and sprinkled with chili flakes, edamame packs a protein-filled punch that pairs well with the vibrant salad, adding a kick of flavor without overpowering it.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, fruity white like Sauvignon Blanc will balance out the richness of the peanut dressing while harmonizing with the fresh flavors. It’s the perfect refreshment to enjoy alongside your meal.
Lime Sorbet: For a delightful finish, this refreshing dessert cleanses the palate and ties in the lime notes from the dressing, leaving you with a feeling of light satisfaction.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these tasty bites provide a juicy protein option that complements the salad’s fresh crunch, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Sesame Garlic Broccoli: Steamed broccoli with a dash of sesame oil and garlic offers a bright, crunchy side that resonates with the salad’s flavors while adding extra nutrients to your meal.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits introduces sweetness and a touch of summer, perfectly balancing out the meal while offering a light finish that’s hard to resist.
Coconut Water: This refreshing drink is not only hydrating but adds a subtle tropical twist, making it a delightful sip alongside your Vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing.

Expert Tips for Spring Roll Salad

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest veggies and herbs to enhance the flavor and texture of your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing.

Wash Rice Noodles Well: Rinse cooked noodles thoroughly after boiling to prevent them from becoming sticky, ensuring they remain light in texture.

Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spiciness of the dressing by modifying the chili flakes; start with a little and increase based on your preference.

Store Smartly: If saving leftovers, keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the salad. Add dressing just before serving for the best result.

Herb Timing: For maximum freshness, add delicate herbs like cilantro and mint just before serving to keep their flavor bright and vibrant.

How to Store and Freeze Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing

Room Temperature: This salad is best served fresh; if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the fresh ingredients losing texture and flavor, particularly in the cucumbers and herbs.

Reheating: If you have leftover rice noodles, simply reheat them in a microwave or in a pan over low heat. Do not heat the salad itself, as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold.

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful salad to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Protein-Packed: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal that fuels your day.
Noodle Alternatives: Substitute rice noodles with soba or vermicelli for a fun twist—both deliver unique flavors and textures!
Nutty Crunch: Experiment with different nuts like cashews or almond slivers. Each nut brings a distinct crunch and taste enhancement.
Herb Medley: Mix in additional herbs or veggies depending on what you have handy, such as radishes for extra crunch or bean sprouts for a unique texture.
Spicier Kick: Increase the chili flakes to add a fiery flavor; if you’re a heat lover, feel free to intensify the spice!
Veggie Bonanza: Toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition; they’ll elevate the salad’s freshness, making it even more vibrant.
Creamy Twist: Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile that still offers a creamy texture.
Asian Fusion: Try incorporating some mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical flair—these fruits pair beautifully with the peanut dressing, adding an exciting sweetness.

Ready to experiment with flavors and textures? Consider pairing your salad with crispy spring rolls for a complete meal, or indulge in other refreshing dishes from your kitchen!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning! You can chop all the vegetables (lettuce, carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, and green onions) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the creamy peanut dressing can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 1 week—just make sure to give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the veggies with the cold rice noodles and dressing to maintain that delightful crunch. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad in minutes, saving time for more precious moments!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of rice noodles should I use for this salad?
You can use any kind of rice noodles available, such as Thai rice vermicelli or flat rice noodles. If you prefer a different texture, soba or vermicelli noodles can be excellent substitutes!

How should I store leftover Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Remember to keep the peanut dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crispness! Just toss them together when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I freeze the Spring Roll Salad?
I do not recommend freezing this salad because the fresh ingredients like cucumber and herbs lose their crispness and flavor when frozen. If you’re making it ahead of time, consider prepping the components separately and combining them fresh before serving.

How can I troubleshoot a bland dressing?
If your dressing tastes bland, start by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce to enhance the flavor. You might also want to increase the lime juice for brightness or add more peanut butter for creaminess. Taste as you go for the best balance!

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. If you have allergies, take care to avoid peanuts in the dressing and can substitute sunflower seed butter or another nut butter that fits your dietary needs. Always check for cross-contamination, especially when cooking for others.

How ripe should the vegetables be for the best flavor?
Using fresh, crispy vegetables is key! Look for bright, vibrant colors with no dark spots on the cucumbers or any other veggies. The carrots should be firm and crunchy, while the lettuce should be crisp and green—these will give your salad the best texture and taste!