If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant, and utterly addictive dish, this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs right now. Bursting with crisp veggies, fragrant herbs, and chewy rice noodles, all tied together by a creamy, tangy peanut dressing, this salad perfectly captures the bright, clean flavors of spring rolls without the fuss of rolling. If you love that satisfying crunch paired with a nutty, slightly spicy sauce, prepare to fall head over heels for this colorful bowl of goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is in its simplicity and variety. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the crunchy fresh vegetables that add texture and color, to the silky noodles bringing a subtle chew, and finally, the peanut dressing that delivers the ultimate flavor punch.
- Rice noodles: Soft and tender, they soak up the peanut dressing beautifully without overpowering the other flavors.
- Shredded lettuce: Provides a light and crisp base for the salad’s fresh components.
- Shredded carrots: Add a natural sweetness and vibrant orange hue to the dish.
- Cucumber, julienned: Offers a refreshing crunch and coolness to balance the richness of the dressing.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: Brings a burst of citrusy herbal brightness that elevates the entire salad.
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped: Adds an unexpected cool and aromatic lift to every bite.
- Chopped peanuts: Deliver a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the peanut dressing perfectly.
- Red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Infuses a sweet peppery flavor and eye-catching color contrast.
- Green onions, sliced: Give a gentle kick of mild onion sharpness to enhance the salad’s depth.
- Hoisin sauce: Brings a sweet-savory richness that balances the acidity in the dressing.
- Peanut butter: The creamy, nutty heart of the dressing that makes this salad unforgettable.
- Soy sauce: Adds the perfect salty umami boost to the dressing.
- Rice vinegar: Injects a bright tang that wakes up your taste buds.
- Lime juice: Gives a zesty citrus punch that enlivens every ingredient.
- Sesame oil: Offers a subtle toasted aroma and depth to the dressing.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity and heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic, minced: Delivers a pungent bite that adds complexity.
- Grated ginger: Injects a warm, spicy undertone to complement the fresh herbs.
- Chili flakes: Bring a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering.
How to Make Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil, then add your rice noodles. Cook them following the package instructions—usually just a few minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. It’s important not to overcook them because you want that perfect chewy texture that contrasts the crunchy veggies so beautifully.
Step 2: Cool and Drain the Noodles
Once cooked, immediately drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This halts the cooking process and keeps them from sticking together. Let the noodles drain thoroughly to avoid watering down your salad and dress them once they’re mostly dry for the best results.
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Veggies and Herbs
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded lettuce, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped peanuts. Toss everything gently so that the vibrant colors and crunchy textures start mingling early, building a vibrant medley that’s both visually stunning and delicious.
Step 4: Whisk the Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh lime juice, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth, velvety, and perfectly combined. Taste it and tweak the balance by adding extra lime juice if you want more zing or chili flakes if you love heat.
Step 5: Combine the Salad with Dressing
Pour the luscious peanut dressing over the vegetable and herb mix and toss gently but thoroughly. This ensures every morsel is evenly coated in that irresistible sauce.
Step 6: Add Noodles and Final Toss
Now, fold in the cooled rice noodles and toss again to make sure they are well incorporated into the salad. The noodles add a wonderful body to the dish and soak up the flavors of the peanut dressing while blending perfectly with the fresh crunch of the veggies.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Once everything is combined and coated in peanut goodness, serve the salad right away. This ensures the crispness and freshness remain intact for the best eating experience.
How to Serve Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped peanuts, a few fresh cilantro and mint leaves on top not only amps up the flavor but adds that eye-pleasing finishing touch. These simple garnishes bring freshness and an irresistible crunch to every bite.
Side Dishes
This vibrant salad shines as a light lunch or dinner, but pairing it with steamed dumplings, grilled shrimp skewers, or crispy spring rolls takes your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness. These sides complement the salad’s vibrant flavors without overwhelming its delicate balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this salad in large lettuce cups or in mini bowls for a party appetizer vibe. You can also roll small amounts in rice paper for an interactive experience that captures the essence of traditional spring rolls in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Combining them just before serving will keep the veggies crisp and the noodles from becoming mushy. The dressing alone holds well for several days, so you can whip up fresh veggies whenever you’re ready.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and the delicate texture of the noodles, this salad is not suitable for freezing. The ingredients won’t retain their freshness or crunch after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can gently warm the noodles in hot water for a few seconds before tossing them with the cold veggies and dressing, but avoid reheating the dressed salad itself as it can wilt the ingredients.
FAQs
Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?
Absolutely! While peanut butter gives this salad its signature flavor, almond or cashew butter can be tasty alternatives. Just be mindful of the flavor change and maybe adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is this salad vegan-friendly?
Yes, the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is naturally vegan, as long as you use hoisin sauce without any animal products. It’s a delicious and wholesome plant-based option full of fresh veggies and rich flavors.
What can I use if I don’t have rice noodles?
Glass noodles or thin vermicelli rice noodles are the best substitutes because they maintain the light, chewy texture that pairs well with the salad. Avoid thicker pastas as they can overpower the dish.
How spicy is the dressing? Can I adjust it?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can always dial the heat up or down depending on your preference. For a milder dressing, reduce or omit the chili flakes; to spice it up, add a pinch more or even some fresh chopped chili.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Definitely! The peanut dressing can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using, as some ingredients may separate over time.
Final Thoughts
This Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration of fresh flavors and textures in every forkful. It’s easy to make, vibrant on the plate, and packed with wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. I truly hope you give this recipe a try—it’s become a cherished favorite of mine and I know it will soon be yours too!
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Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 5m
- Total Time: 0h 20m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Spring Roll Salad featuring delicate rice noodles, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. This no-cook salad combines Asian-inspired flavors in a light, healthy dish perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Peanut Dressing
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Cook the Rice Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Rinse and Cool Noodles: Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and to prevent sticking. Set aside to fully cool and drain.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine shredded lettuce, shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, chopped cilantro, chopped mint leaves, chopped peanuts, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions.
- Toss Vegetables: Gently toss the mixed vegetables and herbs together ensuring even distribution.
- Make the Peanut Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes until smooth and fully combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust by adding more lime juice, soy sauce, or chili flakes to achieve your preferred balance of tang, saltiness, and heat.
- Combine Dressing and Salad: Pour the peanut dressing over the mixed salad ingredients and toss gently to coat all components evenly.
- Add Noodles to Salad: Incorporate the cooled rice noodles into the salad and toss gently again to combine thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped peanuts, cilantro, and mint leaves if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing!
Notes
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free if necessary.
- For extra protein, add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
- If you prefer a spicier dressing, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
- The salad is best served fresh to maintain the noodles’ texture and the crunch of the vegetables.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day but noodles may become soggy over time.
