Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

All the flavors of traditional spring rolls shine in this deconstructed Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe). This 30-minute meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. By serving the ingredients in a bowl instead of wrapping them, you save time and enjoy all the vibrant flavors and textures without the fuss. Fresh crunchy veggies, tender noodles, and a creamy peanut sauce come together for an unforgettable dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy an array of colorful vegetables that not only taste great but also provide essential nutrients.
• Flavorful Peanut Sauce: The creamy peanut sauce adds depth and richness, elevating the entire bowl.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your bowl with your favorite proteins or veggies to suit your taste preferences.
• No Wrapping Required: Skip the hassle of rolling spring rolls; everything is conveniently served in one bowl!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or blender
• Pot for boiling water

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk or blender: Ensures smooth mixing of the peanut sauce for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

For the Noodles and Vegetables

• 2 oz vermicelli rice noodles, dry (about ¼ of an 8 oz bag or ~60g)
• 1 carrot, peeled and shredded (~1 cup or 60g)
• 2 cups shredded purple cabbage (or green cabbage (~¼ head of cabbage or 180g))
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (or bell pepper of choice (~1-1.5 cups or 100-150g))
• 2 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced (or ½ an English cucumber (~1 cup or 70g))
• 2 stalks green onion, finely chopped (~2 Tbsp or 10g)
• ¼ cup fresh mint, finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

For the Peanut Sauce

• ½ lb small or medium cooked shrimp, deveined and tails removed
• ¼ cup natural peanut butter (or nut butter of choice (64g))
• 1 lime, juiced (about 2 Tbsp of juice (30ml))
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 Tbsp ginger root, finely grated (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)
• 2 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos (30 ml))
• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar (30 ml)
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil (10 ml)
• 1 Tbsp honey (or sweetener of choice (15 ml))
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

1. Shred vegetables including carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, and red pepper.
2. Finely chop the green onion, fresh mint, and cilantro.

Step 2: Cook the Rice Noodles

1. Boil water in a pot.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions until tender.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

1. Finely grate fresh ginger root and mince the garlic.
2. In a mixing bowl or blender, whisk or blend all peanut sauce ingredients until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded vegetables, chopped herbs, cooked noodles, shrimp, and dressing.
2. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated in the delicious peanut sauce.

Enjoy your flavorful Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce!

How to Serve Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

Serving your Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce can enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this vibrant dish.

Make it a Meal

• Use a larger bowl to create a hearty meal that’s satisfying and colorful.
• Add extra protein like grilled chicken or tofu for a more filling option.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nutty crunch.
• Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Top with additional fresh cilantro or mint for an aromatic finish.
• Consider a few lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Customize Your Noodles

• Swap vermicelli noodles for zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Use soba noodles for a unique flavor profile that complements the sauce.

How to Perfect Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

To ensure your Spring Roll in a Bowl is bursting with flavor, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables make all the difference in taste and texture, enhancing the overall dish.
• Prep ahead of time: Chop your veggies and prepare the sauce in advance to save time during meal prep.
• Adjust spiciness: Modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference; start small and add more if desired.
• Mix well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed so every bite is packed with flavor from the peanut sauce.
• Serve chilled: Letting the dish sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some delicious options that pair wonderfully with your main dish.

1. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a nutritious and protein-rich snack.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar complements the flavors of your bowl perfectly.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can balance out the cold spring roll dish and provide depth to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and herbs adds both color and texture, making it an excellent companion.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors, making them perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Not slicing vegetables evenly: Uniformly sliced vegetables not only look appealing but also cook evenly and provide a consistent texture. Use a sharp knife and take your time for even cuts.
• Overcooking the noodles: Follow the package instructions carefully. Overcooked noodles can become mushy, ruining your dish’s texture. Aim for al dente for the best result.
• Skipping the dressing: The peanut sauce adds essential flavor to the dish. Don’t skip it! Make sure to whisk or blend until smooth for a creamy consistency.
• Using stale herbs: Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro enhance the freshness of the bowl. Always check that your herbs are fresh and vibrant before using them.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Depending on personal preference, you may need to adjust seasonings like soy sauce or lime juice for optimum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

• This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without shrimp for up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in increments of 30 seconds, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I customize my Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce (Easy Recipe)?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables or proteins you enjoy. Tofu or grilled chicken can be excellent substitutes.

What type of peanut butter should I use?

Natural peanut butter works best as it blends smoothly into the sauce. You can also try almond butter for a different flavor.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the shrimp and use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time, just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Spring Roll in a Bowl with Peanut Sauce offers all the delicious flavors of traditional spring rolls without the fuss. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Experiment with your favorite veggies and proteins!