Name: Fresh and Crunchy Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 150 g Rice noodles (Substitution: Soba or vermicelli noodles can be used; just ensure they are rinsed after cooking.); 4 cups Shredded lettuce (Any leafy greens can work.); 2 medium Shredded carrots (Substitution: Other root vegetables can be used for added texture.); 1 medium Cucumber, julienned (Can substitute with bell peppers for crunch.); 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped (Use parsley if cilantro isn’t available.); 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves, chopped (Basil can be a good alternative.); 1/3 cup Chopped peanuts (Substitution: Almonds or cashews can also be used.); 1 medium Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (Other color bell peppers can be used as alternatives.); 2 stalks Green onions, sliced (Can replace with shallots for a milder flavor.); 2 tablespoons Hoisin sauce (Substitution: Soy sauce mixed with honey/maple syrup and vinegar.); 1/2 cup Peanut butter (Can use sun butter for a nut-free option.); 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (Tamari can be used for gluten-free.); 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can substitute.); 1 tablespoon Lime juice (Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Sesame oil (Can omit if desired, or use olive oil.); 1 teaspoon Sugar (Honey or agave can substitute.); 1 clove Garlic, minced (Shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.); 1 teaspoon Grated ginger (Ground ginger can be used in a pinch.); 1 teaspoon Chili flakes (Can be omitted for a milder dressing.)

As I tossed the vibrant array of colorful veggies in my bowl, the inviting aroma of creamy peanut dressing filled the air, instantly transporting me to a sunny street market in Southeast Asia. This Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a fresh, crunchy delight that turns any meal into an occasion. With its quick preparation and endless customization options, this salad effortlessly fits into both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend dining. Imagine indulging in a healthy, vegetarian dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with textures! The chewy rice noodles paired with crisp vegetables create a culinary experience in every bite. Are you ready to dive into this delicious, refreshing creation that will bring a touch of flair to your table?

Why is This Salad So Special?

Freshness at its finest: Packed with a vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables, this salad bursts with natural flavors that scream health and vitality.
Customizable to your taste: Use whatever veggies you have on hand, making it perfect for any season or occasion.
Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish—ideal for busy weeknights!
Creamy peanut dressing: This rich dressing elevates the salad, providing a luscious, nutty flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served as a light meal or a side, this spring roll salad pairs beautifully with crispy spring rolls, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Ingredients

For the Salad

Rice noodles – Serve as the base; light and chewy texture complements the crunchy vegetables. Substitution: Soba or vermicelli noodles can be used; just ensure they are rinsed after cooking.
Shredded lettuce – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch. No substitutions necessary, but any leafy greens can work.
Shredded carrots – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color for a lively crunch. Substitution: Other root vegetables can be used for added texture.
Cucumber, julienned – Adds hydrating crunch; refreshing flavor balances richness. Can substitute with bell peppers for crunch.
Fresh cilantro, chopped – Bright, herbaceous flavor to enhance freshness. Use parsley if cilantro isn’t available.
Fresh mint leaves, chopped – Adds aromatic freshness. Basil can be a good alternative.
Chopped peanuts – Contributes a crunchy, nutty flavor enhancing the salad’s depth. Substitution: Almonds or cashews can also be used.
Red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Sweet and tangy, adding flavor and color to the dish. Other color bell peppers can be used as alternatives.
Green onions, sliced – Imparts a mild onion flavor, enhancing complexity. Can replace with shallots for a milder flavor.

For the Peanut Dressing

Hoisin sauce – Adds a sweet and umami depth to the dressing. Substitution: Soy sauce mixed with honey/maple syrup and vinegar.
Peanut butter – Main component of the dressing, providing creaminess and nuttiness. Can use sun butter for a nut-free option.
Soy sauce – Brings savory, salty notes to balance flavors. Tamari can be used for gluten-free.
Rice vinegar – A light, tangy ingredient balancing the dressing. Apple cider vinegar can substitute.
Lime juice – Bright and zesty, elevates flavors in the dressing. Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
Sesame oil – Adds a nutty depth and flavor to the dressing. Can omit if desired, or use olive oil.
Sugar – Balances savory notes in the dressing. Honey or agave can substitute.
Garlic, minced – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes. Shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.
Grated ginger – Provides warmth and a zesty kick. Ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
Chili flakes – Offers heat; adjust to taste. Can be omitted for a milder dressing.

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

Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, generally around 4-6 minutes, until they are tender yet firm to the bite. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water until they are thoroughly cooled. This stops the cooking process and prevents stickiness.

Step 2: Cool and Drain the Noodles
After rinsing, set the drained noodles aside in the colander to allow any excess water to drain off. Let them cool for about 10 minutes, ensuring they maintain a light, fluffy texture. This step is crucial for the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing, as it allows the noodles to absorb the flavors of the dressing later on.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
While the noodles cool, take a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded lettuce, carrots, julienned cucumber, chopped cilantro, mint, chopped peanuts, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions. Toss these fresh, vibrant ingredients gently, ensuring they are mixed well and ready to receive the creamy peanut dressing, adding a beautiful contrast in colors and flavors.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes until smooth and creamy. Aim for a consistent texture without lumps. This luscious peanut dressing is the heart of your Spring Roll Salad, bringing everything together with its creamy richness and savory notes.

Step 5: Adjust the Dressing
Once the peanut dressing is blended, taste it and adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. If you prefer a bit more sweetness, add a touch of sugar; for a tangier flavor, more lime juice can be effective. This step ensures that the dressing complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.

Step 6: Combine the Salad and Dressing
Pour the creamy peanut dressing over the mixed salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using salad tongs or your hands, making sure that each component is evenly coated with the dressing without bruising the vegetables. This fusion of flavors is what makes the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing truly delightful.

Step 7: Add the Rice Noodles
Finally, add the cooled rice noodles to the beautifully mixed salad. Toss again carefully to incorporate the noodles without breaking them. This step is essential to integrate the chewy texture of the rice noodles into your vibrant salad, ensuring that every bite is a mix of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Your Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing is now ready to be served! Garnish with extra chopped peanuts, cilantro, and mint on top for an attractive presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crunchy textures and bright flavors of this delightful dish, perfect for a refreshing meal or side.

Make Ahead Options

These Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the vegetables, such as shredded lettuce, carrots, and julienned cucumber, up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. The creamy peanut dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days—keep it separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy. When you’re ready to serve, toss the prepped salad ingredients and the cooled rice noodles together with the dressing for a fresh, vibrant meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were made that day!

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Variations

Feel free to play with these variations to make this refreshing salad your own masterpiece!

Protein-Packed: Add grilled shrimp or shredded chicken for extra protein, turning this salad into a heartier meal. Both proteins soak up flavors beautifully, enhancing every bite.
Veggie Swap: Customize with seasonal veggies like bell peppers or snap peas—whatever you have on hand works wonderfully. Get creative; you might discover a new favorite combination!
Creamy Alternative: For a nut-free option, swap peanut butter with sun butter in the dressing. This keeps the creaminess while catering to those with nut allergies!
Herb Mix: Replace cilantro and mint with fresh basil for a sweet twist. Basil complements the peanut dressing well, creating a fragrant and vibrant new flavor.
Heat Level: Kick things up a notch by adding sliced jalapeños or a splash of Sriracha to your dressing, giving the salad a spicy kick that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Crunchy Toppings: Try topping with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips for that added crunch and texture, enhancing the delightful experience with an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet Kick: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a sweet burst of flavor. The sweetness of tropical fruits pairs exquisite with the savory peanut dressing.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings; a sesame ginger dressing is also fabulous with the same base ingredients. You can find a delightful pairing with dishes like Boursin Orzo Chicken or alongside a vibrant Brussels Sprout Salad for a refreshing meal!

Happy customizing, and enjoy every vibrant bite!

How to Store and Freeze Spring Roll Salad

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the creamy peanut dressing separate to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

Freezer: It’s not ideal to freeze the spring roll salad as the vegetables and noodles may become mushy. However, the peanut dressing can be frozen for up to 3 months in a sealed container.

Reheating: If you’ve stored the noodles with the salad, give them a quick rinse under warm water to separate before serving. Toss with fresh ingredients to revive the texture.

Preparing Ahead: You can chop the vegetables and prepare the peanut dressing in advance, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days for quick assembly at mealtime.

Expert Tips for Spring Roll Salad

Prep Ahead: Prepare your dressing in advance and store it separately until ready to toss. This keeps the salad fresh and avoids sogginess.
Mixing Order: Combine the crunchier vegetables first before adding delicate herbs. This helps prevent wilting and keeps the salad vibrant.
Noodle Cooling: Ensure your rice noodles are completely cooled before adding them to the salad to absorb all the flavors of the peanut dressing.
Taste & Adjust: Always taste the peanut dressing before combining; adjust the sweetness or spice to create a balanced flavor that suits your palate.
Color Variety: Use a mix of colorful vegetables to make your Spring Roll Salad visually appealing and enhance the flavor profile with different textures.

What to Serve with Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing

This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with various delightful sides and drinks that enhance your meal experience.

Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunch of golden spring rolls complements the salad’s texture, offering a satisfying bite to accompany the fresh flavors.
Asian-Inspired Fried Rice: Full of savory flavors and colorful vegetables, this dish provides a comforting base to balance the salad’s crisp freshness.
Chilled Soba Noodles: Light and refreshing, these noodles can add a different texture while soaking up any leftover dressing from the salad.
Garlic Lime Edamame: A simple yet flavorful finger food that adds a protein punch, perfectly contrasting the salad’s crunchy variety.
Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet dessert provides a lovely closure to your meal offering a delightful interplay of creamy, sweet, and salty flavors.
Iced Green Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink cools the palate while enhancing the Asian flavors present in the salad.
Coconut Water: A refreshing option that hydrates and adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the rich peanut dressing’s creaminess.
Fruit Salad with Mint: The fruity freshness and mint infusion harmonize beautifully with the seasoned elements of the salad, making it a perfect light side.

Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of rice noodles are best for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using vermicelli or rice noodles, as they cook quickly and provide a light base for the salad. Just ensure you rinse them after cooking to prevent sticking. If you prefer a different texture, soba noodles work wonderfully too!

How should I store leftover Spring Roll Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s vital to keep the creamy peanut dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. This way, you can enjoy the vibrant flavors without sacrificing texture.

Can I freeze the peanut dressing?
Very! You can freeze the peanut dressing for future use! Simply transfer it into a sealed container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before pouring it over your salad.

What can I do if my peanut dressing is too thick?
If your peanut dressing turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a small amount of warm water or lime juice, one tablespoon at a time, and whisk until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help revive the dressing and make it smooth and pourable again.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Definitely! This Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing contains peanuts, soy sauce, and sesame oil, which are common allergens. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sun butter, use tamari for gluten-free, and omit sesame oil without compromising the salad’s essence.

Can I prep this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can chop all the vegetables and prepare the peanut dressing up to 3 days ahead of serving. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge, so the ingredients stay fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, toss them together for a quick, delicious meal!