Save to Pins This Vegan Spring Roll Salad brings all the fresh, vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine to your table without any rolling required! Imagine all those colorful veggies and herbs that make spring rolls so irresistible, deconstructed into a beautiful bowl and drizzled with a creamy, tangy peanut dressing that ties everything together perfectly.
Save to Pins In Vietnamese cuisine, the balance of textures and flavors is an art form. This salad honors that tradition with crisp vegetables, tender rice noodles, fragrant herbs, and a rich, satisfying dressing. Each bite offers a different combination of flavors - from the pepperiness of basil to the brightness of mint and the earthiness of cilantro.
Ingredients
- Salad: 1 cup shredded red cabbage, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber, 1 cup cooked and cooled rice noodles (optional), 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced), 1 cup bean sprouts, 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 avocado (sliced), 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (roughly chopped)
- Peanut Dressing: 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed), 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the red cabbage, carrots, cucumber, rice noodles (if using), bell pepper, bean sprouts, mint, cilantro, and basil. Toss gently to mix.
- Arrange and garnish
- Arrange the salad mixture on a large serving platter or in individual bowls. Top with avocado slices and chopped roasted peanuts.
- Make the peanut dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.
- Serve
- Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve on the side.
- Enjoy
- Toss gently to combine and enjoy immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, slice your vegetables as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for the cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Make this salad heartier by adding baked tofu or tempeh. For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit the chopped peanuts or replace them with roasted sunflower seeds. If you prefer a grain-free option, skip the rice noodles and add extra vegetables instead. For added sweetness, include some thinly sliced mango or pineapple.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this vibrant salad as a light lunch on its own, or as a side dish alongside other Vietnamese-inspired dishes like banh mi sandwiches or vegan summer rolls. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of jasmine tea or a refreshing lemongrass-infused beverage. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein source like crispy tofu or tempeh.
Save to Pins This deconstructed spring roll salad brings the joy of Vietnamese cuisine to your everyday meals without the fuss of rolling individual pieces. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tender noodles, and creamy dressing creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Hanoi. Perfect for warm weather dining or whenever you're craving something light yet satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can rice noodles be omitted in this salad?
Yes, rice noodles are optional and can be left out for a lighter, crunchier texture focused on fresh vegetables.
- → What can be used instead of peanut butter in the dressing?
Almond or sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter to accommodate allergies or preference while maintaining creaminess.
- → How can I make the dressing spicier?
Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut dressing to give it a pleasant spicy kick.
- → Is soy sauce necessary or are there alternatives?
Soy sauce adds depth, but tamari or coconut aminos can be used for gluten-free or soy-free options.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this salad?
Fresh mint, cilantro, and basil provide aromatic, bright notes that complement the crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing.