Shrimp Spring Rolls

Name: Shrimp Spring Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 12 rice paper wrappers; 12 large cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and sliced in half lengthwise; 4 oz rice vermicelli noodles; 1 large carrot, julienned; 1 small cucumber, julienned; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 4 romaine lettuce leaves, cut into strips; 1/2 cup peanut dipping sauce

Posted on February 20, 2026

Freshly made shrimp spring rolls served with dipping sauce

Appetizers

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Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Table of Contents

Shrimp Spring Rolls: A Flavorful Adventure in Every Bite

Hey there, food lovers! It’s Jackson Walker, and today we’re diving into a colorful and fresh dish that never fails to excite—that’s right, we’re making Shrimp Spring Rolls! These delightful wraps are not only visually stunning with their fresh veggies and succulent shrimp, but they’re also a fantastic way to celebrate vibrant flavors. Whether you’re throwing a casual get-together or just want a fun snack, these spring rolls are a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Who doesn’t love the thrill of biting into a crunchy yet tender spring roll, paired with a savory dipping sauce? The good news is that they’re easier to make than you might think, and I’m here to guide you through each step with enthusiasm! Plus, I’ll share my secrets to elevate these rolls into something unforgettable. When you’re done with this post, you’ll not only know how to whip them up, but you’ll also understand the story and passion behind each ingredient.

So grab your apron and let’s go on this culinary adventure together! I can’t wait to share my love for food and make cooking exciting and approachable for you. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these fabulous Shrimp Spring Rolls that are just bursting with flavor. Since I believe cooking should be fun and a little messy, let’s get started!

Personal Story

Growing up in the South, my family gatherings always revolved around food. Picture this: a crowded kitchen, family members laughing, and the rich aroma of a hearty gumbo simmering in the background. But one of my fondest memories isn’t about any particular Southern dish; it was during a summer trip to Southeast Asia when I first tasted authentic spring rolls.

While wandering through a bustling night market in Vietnam, the vibrant colors of fresh produce and the aroma of sizzling shrimp lulled me in. As I watched a friendly street vendor skillfully wrap shrimp and veggies in those delicate rice paper sheets, I knew I had to give it a go myself. When I took that first bite, it was like fireworks in my mouth—the crunch of fresh veggies, the juiciness of the shrimp, and that perfectly creamy peanut sauce! It sparked a new love for combining bold flavors with fresh ingredients—the essence of my cooking today.

Ever since that trip, I have made it my mission to bring that taste of adventure back into my kitchen. These Shrimp Spring Rolls are my homage to that shimmering market! They are not just a recipe; they’re a way to relive and share those joyful flavors with anyone who’s willing to roll up their sleeves and get creative.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Shrimp Spring Rolls, along with some quick insights and substitution tips:

12 rice paper wrappers
These are the stars of the show! They create a delicate, yet sturdy envelope for your filling. If you can’t find rice paper, look for soft corn tortillas as a gluten-free alternative.
12 large cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and sliced in half lengthwise
Shrimpy goodness! Add a pinch of salt while boiling them for extra flavor. You can swap them for grilled chicken or tofu for a veggie option.
4 oz rice vermicelli noodles
These little strands add a great texture to your rolls. Opt for whole wheat noodles for added fiber, or skip them entirely if you prefer a low-carb version.
1 large carrot, julienned
Carrots add a nice crunch and sweetness. You can use colorful heirloom carrots for a fun twist or substitute with bell peppers.
1 small cucumber, julienned
For that fresh, cool crunch! Zucchini can be a great alternative if you’re looking for something different.
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
Sweet and strikingly vibrant. Feel free to get creative—yellow or orange peppers can also bring an exciting pop of color.
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
Mint adds an unexpected but refreshing twist! Basil or cilantro can be substituted if you’re not a mint fan.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
The herb that ties everything together. If you’re not a fan, using parsley or simply omitting it works, too.
4 romaine lettuce leaves, cut into strips
These add a layer of crispness and help hold your ingredients together. Butter lettuce is an excellent substitute!
1/2 cup peanut dipping sauce
The perfect balance of creamy, salty, and sweet. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce. Replace with almond butter for a nut-free sauce.

Now that you know your ingredients, it’s time to make some magic in the kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get down to business! Here’s how to bring your Shrimp Spring Rolls to life:

Prepare the Noodles
Begin by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package directions—usually just a quick soak in hot water for about 5 minutes. Make sure they are al dente—nobody wants mushy noodles in their rolls! Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. About 1 and a half cups of cooked vermicelli should do the trick!
Chop and Slice the Fresh Veggies
While your noodles are soaking, chop all your veggies! Julienne the carrot, cucumber, and red bell pepper nice and thin. This not only makes for easier rolling but also keeps everything light and refreshing.
Prep the Shrimp
If your shrimp aren’t cooked yet, you can sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are opaque. If they’re pre-cooked, just slice them in half lengthwise. This helps them fit better in the rolls and ensures that everyone gets a shrimp in every bit!
Soak the Rice Paper Wrappers
Now comes the fun part! Take a single rice paper wrapper and soak it in warm water for about 10-15 seconds until it’s soft but still slightly firm (it will continue to soften as you work). Lay it flat on a clean, damp surface or cutting board.
Layer the Filling
Start layering—first, place a few mint and cilantro leaves at the bottom, followed by a few strips of romaine lettuce. Next, add a small bundle of the vermicelli noodles—don’t go overboard! You want freedom of movement for rolling. Then, pile on the julienned veggies and your shrimp. You’re looking for balance here, friends!
Roll it Up
Here’s where the magic happens! Start rolling by folding the sides of the wrapper over your filling, then carefully roll from the bottom up. Keep it tight, but not so tight that your delicious ingredients burst out. Place your finished roll seam-side down and repeat for the rest!
Serve with Dipping Sauce
Arrange your beautiful spring rolls on a platter and serve with that dreamy peanut dipping sauce! Dip, bite, and enjoy—don’t be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds or thirds!

Chef Hack: If your rice paper wrappers start to stick together, just sprinkle a little cold water in between them to separate them. And when rolling, if you feel like you’re tearing the paper, just practice your technique. Wrapping should become a fun, free-flowing experience!

Serving Suggestions

Presenting food beautifully always adds an extra pinch of excitement! To serve your Shrimp Spring Rolls, arrange them neatly on a colorful platter—aim for some height by stacking a few on top of one another. This way, the fresh colors of the ingredients pop! You can garnish the plate with extra herbs or slices of lime for that zesty touch. And don’t forget those small bowls of peanut dipping sauce—people LOVE to dip!

For a more casual vibe, consider serving them pre-rolled with the sauce on the side so guests can soak up the flavors as they munch. You might even present it as a DIY spring roll bar—laying out all the fillings and allowing your guests to customize their own rolls. Now that’s an experience they’ll talk about long after the party ends!

Recipe Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of Shrimp Spring Rolls, let’s have some fun with a few creative twists:

Spicy Thai Version: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your shrimp while cooking or include sliced jalapeños in the roll for a spicy kick!
Avocado Twist: Customize the filling by adding sliced avocado for that creamy layer. It brings a delightful richness that complements the fresh veggies.
Fruit Fusion: Toss in some thinly sliced mango or kiwi to add a hint of sweetness. The fruit pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls: Swap the shrimp with leftover grilled or crispy chicken. Monkey around with herbs—substitute all the fresh herbs with something like basil for a different flavor profile!
Vegan Delight: Replace shrimp with marinated tofu or tempeh and load it up with a variety of crunchy veggies for a filling, plant-based option!

Remember, the possibilities are endless—experimenting is part of the culinary fun!

Chef’s Notes

Over the years, my Shrimp Spring Rolls have evolved tremendously. Initially, I stuck to a very traditional recipe, but with time, I started incorporating flavors and ingredients that are close to my taste buds. A memorable mishap I once had was accidentally adding too much ginger into my peanut sauce—let’s just say, it turned into a serious taste explosion! Now, I like to embrace that spontaneity when creating a recipe; remember, cooking is a journey, not a destination!

FAQs and Troubleshooting

1. What if my rice paper wrappers are tearing?

Be gentle with the rolling process. If it tears, try soaking it for a shorter time next time! Also, don’t overload your filling; less is often more!

2. Can I make spring rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a few hours before serving; just keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

3. How long can I keep leftover spring rolls?

Ideally, enjoy them fresh! However, if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for about a day. They’re best eaten quickly!

4. I can’t find rice vermicelli noodles. What can I use?

You can replace them with any thin noodle that you enjoy, or even skip them entirely for a low-carb version! Spiralized veggies make a fun and healthy alternative.

Nutritional Info (optional)

While it’s always best to check specific brands for accurate nutritional information, here’s an approximate breakdown for one Shrimp Spring Roll with peanut sauce:

Calories: 100
Protein: 8g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fibers: 1g

These rolls are light but packed with nutrients—just what you need for a snack or appetizer!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—a brilliant, fresh, and fun way to enjoy your cooking adventure with shrimp spring rolls! I hope this recipe inspires you as much as it has inspired me. Remember, the kitchen is your playground: embrace the mess, cherish the flavors, and share your delicious creations with loved ones.

And hey, don’t forget to make enough to share because these rolls have a way of disappearing fast! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a total beginner, you can create these vibrant and zesty spring rolls and elevate your culinary game.

The world of cooking is filled with endless possibilities, and I can’t wait to see what you create. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Cheers to flavor-filled adventures at Food Meld—where flavor meets fun!