Vegan Fresh Spring Rolls with Sweet Thai Chili Sauce

Experience the vibrant flavors and crisp textures of vegan fresh spring rolls with sweet Thai chili sauce, a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice noodles wrapped in delicate rice paper. These spring rolls are not only visually appealing but also bursting with wholesome ingredients that make them a nutritious and satisfying appetizer or light meal. Perfect for showcasing your culinary skills or impressing guests, these rolls are versatile and customizable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

For the Spring Rolls:

  • 8-10 sheets of rice paper wrappers
  • 1 cup cooked vermicelli rice noodles
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • Optional: 1 cup shredded lettuce or spinach

For the Sweet Thai Chili Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional, for added heat)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
    • Prepare all the vegetables and herbs as specified: shred the carrots, julienne the cucumber, thinly slice the bell pepper and avocado, and wash and dry the cilantro, mint, and basil leaves.
  2. Make the Sweet Thai Chili Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, sriracha sauce (if using), and minced garlic. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside for flavors to meld.
  3. Prepare the Rice Paper Wrappers:
    • Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Working with one rice paper wrapper at a time, dip the wrapper into the water for about 5-10 seconds until it becomes pliable. Place it on a clean, damp kitchen towel or cutting board.
  4. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
    • On the bottom third of the rice paper wrapper, layer a small amount of cooked rice noodles, followed by a handful of shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, sliced bell pepper, avocado slices, and a few leaves of cilantro, mint, and basil. Add shredded lettuce or spinach if desired.
  5. Roll the Spring Rolls:
    • Fold the bottom edge of the rice paper wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly to enclose the filling completely. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
  6. Serve:
    • Arrange the prepared vegan fresh spring rolls on a serving platter. Serve immediately with the sweet Thai chili sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 spring roll (approximately)
  • Calories: 100
  • Total Fat: 3g
    • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 2g

Smart Points:

  • WW (Weight Watchers) Points: 2 points per spring roll

Additional Tips:

  • Variations: Feel free to customize your spring rolls with different vegetables or add tofu strips for extra protein. You can also substitute the sweet Thai chili sauce with peanut sauce or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the vegetables and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the spring rolls just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and crispy.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce (or tamari) are gluten-free certified if you need to avoid gluten.
  • Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, arrange the spring rolls on a platter with fresh herbs and lime wedges. Encourage guests to create their own rolls and enjoy the interactive dining experience.

These vegan fresh spring rolls with sweet Thai chili sauce are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that showcase the beauty of fresh ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a healthy snack, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the crispness of the vegetables, the creaminess of the avocado, and the aromatic herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper, all complemented by the sweet and tangy Thai chili sauce. Embrace the freshness and wholesomeness of this dish, knowing that each bite brings you closer to a healthier lifestyle without compromising on taste.