How to Make Spring Rolls: A Fresh and Healthy Recipe

Spring rolls are one of the most refreshing dishes you can make at home. They are light, crisp, and filled with fresh vegetables, shrimp, and noodles. If you have ever wondered what is a spring roll, it is a traditional Asian dish made with rice paper wrappers and filled with a variety of healthy ingredients. In this article, we will cover step-by-step how to make spring rolls, tips for getting the best flavor, and whether spring rolls are healthy for you.

What is a Spring Roll?

A spring roll is a popular Asian appetizer that combines rice paper wrappers with fresh fillings such as shrimp, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, rice noodles, and herbs. Unlike fried egg rolls, these are served fresh and not cooked in oil, which makes them lighter and more nutritious.

Traditional Pairing with Sauces

In Vietnam, spring rolls are often paired with dipping sauces like a tangy fish sauce-based dip or a creamy peanut sauce.

How to Make Spring Rolls at Home

Making spring rolls is easier than it looks. The key is to prepare all your ingredients before you start rolling. Here’s a simple process you can follow:

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Boil large shrimp with garlic salt, pepper, and bay leaves for extra flavor. Once cooked, cool them in ice water and slice them in half lengthwise

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

Vermicelli rice noodles are the best choice. Soak them in hot water for 5–7 minutes until soft, then rinse in cold water and drain.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

Use julienned carrots, cucumbers, lettuce leaves, and fresh cilantro for that crisp texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Dip rice paper in warm water until it softens, then layer lettuce, noodles, vegetables, herbs, and shrimp. Roll tightly, folding the sides in as you go.

Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce

A Vietnamese dipping sauce (fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, chili, and sugar) or a quick two-ingredient peanut sauce makes the perfect pairing.

Are Spring Rolls Healthy?

Yes, fresh spring rolls are considered very healthy. They are packed with lean protein from shrimp, fiber-rich vegetables, and light rice noodles. Since they are not deep-fried, they are low in fat compared to egg rolls or fried snacks.

Nutrition Benefits of Spring Rolls

Lean protein from shrimp

Fiber from vegetables

Low-fat since they are not fried

Antioxidants from fresh herbs

Final Thoughts

Learning how to make spring rolls at home is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get a fresh, restaurant-quality snack, but you can also customize the fillings to your taste.

So, the next time you ask yourself what is a spring roll or are spring rolls healthy, remember this recipe. With fresh shrimp, crunchy veggies, and a flavorful dipping sauce, these homemade spring rolls are guaranteed to become a family favorite.