Description
Light, fresh, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing is everything you love about spring rolls—minus the wrapper! It’s packed with crisp veggies, tender rice noodles, herbs, and your favorite protein, all tossed in a rich, creamy peanut dressing that ties it all together. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a make-ahead meal, this salad is a delicious celebration of color and crunch.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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4 oz rice vermicelli noodles
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1 cup shredded lettuce or napa cabbage
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1 medium carrot, julienned
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1 cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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½ cup bean sprouts (optional)
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¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
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¼ cup fresh mint leaves
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¼ cup fresh basil leaves (Thai basil preferred)
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2 green onions, sliced
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1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
For the Peanut Dressing:
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¼ cup creamy peanut butter
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2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
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1 tbsp lime juice
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1–2 tbsp warm water (to thin as needed)
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1 clove garlic, minced
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½ tsp grated fresh ginger
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Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Protein Add-Ons:
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Grilled chicken breast, thinly sliced
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Sautéed shrimp
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Crispy tofu or tempeh
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Hard-boiled eggs, halved
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
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Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.
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Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions (typically 3–5 minutes).
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Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Dressing
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
5. Add warm water a little at a time until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add more lime for tang or soy for saltiness).
Step 3: Prep the Veggies & Herbs
7. Wash and dry all vegetables and herbs.
8. Julienne the carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper.
9. Chop or tear the lettuce and herbs into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
10. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, lettuce, vegetables, green onions, bean sprouts (if using), and herbs.
11. Toss gently to mix.
Step 5: Add the Dressing
12. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
13. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and top with your choice of protein.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
14. Serve immediately in bowls or on a platter.
15. Add extra lime wedges and chili flakes on the side if desired.
Notes
Use Fresh Herbs Generously – Mint, cilantro, and basil make the salad sing.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Rinse them right after cooking to keep them springy.
Customize the Crunch – Add chopped peanuts, shredded cabbage, or radish for texture.
Make It Spicy – Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the dressing for heat.
Double the Dressing – It keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for other salads or dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian-Inspired