Spring Roll Salad: A Fresh, Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

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Are you a fan of fresh, crispy spring rolls but find the preparation time a bit too much for a weeknight meal? If so, this Spring Roll Salad is the perfect alternative! With all the flavors you love from traditional spring rolls, this salad is a quick, easy, and vibrant way to enjoy the taste of spring rolls without the hassle of wrapping each individual roll. Light, fresh, and crispy, it’s tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut lime dressing that takes this dish to the next level. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you still want something wholesome and delicious.

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Why You’ll Love This Spring Roll Salad

This Spring Roll Salad combines the freshness and crispness of spring rolls with the simplicity and convenience of a salad. It’s packed with colorful veggies, protein-rich shrimp, and noodles that give it that satisfying texture. The peanut lime dressing is the star of the dish, creamy and tangy with just the right balance of sweet and spicy. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck or picnic, this salad is guaranteed to impress.

What’s more, this salad is incredibly versatile! Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu, use gluten-free noodles, or switch up the veggies based on what’s in season. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe is inspired by the classic spring roll but takes a more laid-back approach, making it a practical and flavorful option for any occasion.

The Ingredients That Make This Salad Shine

The beauty of this Spring Roll Salad lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its fresh ingredients that combine to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Let’s break down the key components of the salad.

Peanut Dressing Ingredients

The peanut dressing is what makes this salad truly special. Its creamy texture, balanced acidity, and hint of spice bring the entire dish together. Here’s what you’ll need to make the dressing:

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness to the dressing and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• 1½ tbsp soy sauce: The saltiness of soy sauce balances the sweetness and gives depth to the dressing.
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar: Brings a tangy kick that balances the richness of the peanut butter and honey.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a sharp, aromatic flavor that complements the creaminess of the peanut butter.
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger, minced: A hint of spice and warmth from ginger brightens up the dressing.
• 1/3 cup peanut butter, smooth: The creamy, nutty base of the dressing that gives it a satisfying texture.
• 1 tsp sriracha or hot sauce of choice: Adds a spicy, tangy kick that balances the sweetness from the honey and peanut butter.
• 1 tbsp honey: Sweetens the dressing just enough to balance the tanginess and spiciness.
• 1/2 lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice brightens the dressing and enhances the flavors with a touch of acidity.
• 1 or 2 tbsp water to thin, or extra lime: This helps adjust the consistency of the dressing. If you like it thinner, add a bit more water or lime juice.

This dressing is a fusion of savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that will complement every bite of the salad.

Shrimp Ingredients

Shrimp adds a wonderful protein to the salad, bringing it all together and giving it a delightful seafood touch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb shrimp, shells removed, pat to dry: Fresh shrimp is ideal for this salad. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw and dry it thoroughly before cooking.
• 1 tbsp olive oil, to fry the shrimp: A little oil helps cook the shrimp evenly and gives them a nice sear.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp.

Salad Ingredients

The base of this salad includes a mix of fresh veggies, noodles, and herbs that lend both flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for the salad:

• 100 grams vermicelli noodles: These thin rice noodles are light and delicate, providing a perfect base for the salad. They’re soft, chewy, and soak up the dressing beautifully.
• 1½ cups purple cabbage, shredded: The purple cabbage adds a colorful crunch and a mild earthy flavor that pairs well with the freshness of the other vegetables.
• 2 mini cucumbers, chopped: Crisp cucumbers add a refreshing, hydrating crunch to the salad.
• 2 carrots, shredded: Sweet and crunchy, shredded carrots add texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• 1 jalapeño, chopped: For a little extra heat and spice, jalapeños offer a nice kick to the salad.
• 1 avocado, chopped: The creamy avocado adds richness to the salad and creates a wonderful contrast to the crunchy veggies.
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped: Green onions bring a mild onion flavor with a slight bite that adds freshness and brightness to the salad.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Cilantro contributes a herby, citrusy freshness that elevates the flavors of the dish.
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped: Mint brings a cool, refreshing taste that perfectly complements the spicy dressing.
• Peanuts (optional for topping): For an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of the salad before serving.

Together, these ingredients create a salad that is fresh, crunchy, and filled with vibrant flavors.

How to Make Spring Roll Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into how to assemble this vibrant and satisfying salad. The process is quick and easy, making it a great option for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something fresh and light.

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Start by cooking the shrimp. Heat a medium-sized frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through. Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the shrimp aside to cool while you prepare the salad ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles

While the shrimp are cooling, prepare the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll need to soak the noodles in hot water for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Dressing

To make the peanut dressing, simply add all the dressing ingredients (olive oil, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, peanut butter, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and water) into a small bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more lime juice or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, start by placing the cooked vermicelli noodles at the bottom. Layer the shredded purple cabbage, chopped cucumbers, shredded carrots, chopped jalapeño, avocado, green onions, cilantro, and mint on top of the noodles. Toss everything together gently, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add the Shrimp and Dressing

Once the salad ingredients are mixed, top the salad with the cooked shrimp. Drizzle the creamy peanut dressing generously over the shrimp and salad. Toss everything together gently until the salad is fully coated in the dressing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well-mixed, serve the salad immediately. If desired, top with chopped peanuts for an added crunch.

Tips for Success

• Shrimp Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of shrimp or prefer another protein, you can easily swap it out for grilled chicken, tofu, or even thinly sliced steak.
• Noodle Variations: If vermicelli noodles are not available, feel free to substitute them with rice noodles, soba noodles, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
• Vegan Adaptation: To make the dish vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar and use a plant-based peanut butter and sriracha. You can also replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh.
• Serving Suggestions: This salad makes a perfect light lunch or dinner on its own, but it can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or even a bowl of miso soup.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately to keep the ingredients fresh. The salad will last for about 1-2 days in the fridge, but the dressing will stay good for a few more days.

The Final Word

This Spring Roll Salad is an absolute game-changer! It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the flavors of spring rolls without the hassle of rolling them up. With its crisp vegetables, tender shrimp, and creamy peanut lime dressing, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding the family, or entertaining guests, this salad is a delicious and refreshing option that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as fresh and exciting as it is flavorful!