Description
Fresh, crunchy, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing is everything you love about classic spring rolls—without the rolling! It’s a colorful, deconstructed version that comes together in a bowl, drizzled with a rich, creamy peanut dressing that ties it all together. Perfect for a light lunch, healthy dinner, or meal prep, it’s refreshing, satisfying, and full of texture.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup matchstick carrots
1 cup cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup cooked rice noodles or vermicelli (optional)
½ cup fresh mint leaves
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
¼ cup chopped green onions
½ cup chopped roasted peanuts (for crunch)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving
Optional Add-ins:
1 cup cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or tofu
½ avocado, sliced
Bean sprouts or edamame
For the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
2 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp sesame oil
1–2 tbsp warm water (to thin, as needed)
½ tsp grated garlic
¼ tsp grated ginger (optional, for a zingy kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Peanut Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
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Add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more lime for tang, soy sauce for salt, or honey for sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
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Wash and thinly slice or shred all vegetables.
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Keep them uniform in size for easy eating and visual appeal.
Step 3: Cook the Rice Noodles (If Using)
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Cook noodles according to package instructions.
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Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
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In a large mixing bowl or platter, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, rice noodles, herbs, and green onions.
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Toss gently to mix.
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Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu if using.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Dressing
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Drizzle peanut dressing over the salad.
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Toss everything to coat evenly, or serve dressing on the side for dipping.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
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Top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
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Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
Slice Everything Thin – Makes it easier to eat and closer to spring roll texture
Use Fresh Herbs Generously – Mint and cilantro bring that authentic Vietnamese flavor
Prep Ahead – Keep veggies and dressing separate until ready to serve
Make it a Meal – Add your favorite protein for a filling lunch or dinner
Don’t Skip the Crunch – Peanuts and sesame seeds add texture and flavor
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for noodles or protein, if using)
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired