Shrimp and Avocado Fresh Spring Rolls are a beautiful combination of light, crisp, and refreshing ingredients wrapped delicately in soft rice paper. This dish is inspired by classic Vietnamese fresh rolls, known for their vibrant colors, clean flavors, and irresistible textures. The pairing of juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic herbs offers a perfect balance that feels both nourishing and satisfying. These rolls are wonderful for warm days, light lunches, meal prep, or elegant appetizers at gatherings.

Fresh spring rolls are enjoyed around the world for their simplicity, versatility, and natural ingredients. They require no frying, making them a healthier alternative to traditional spring rolls without compromising taste. Dip them into a flavorful peanut sauce or nuoc cham, and every bite becomes an explosion of bright, bold flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Shrimp and Avocado Fresh Spring Rolls recipe because it brings together fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with buttery avocado, while fresh herbs such as mint and cilantro add a fragrant pop. The crunchy vegetables keep the rolls light and crisp, and the rice paper wrapping makes them visually stunning and fun to assemble.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, use different dips, or adjust the filling to suit dietary needs. It’s also an interactive dish that’s fun to prepare with family or friends.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

You should try this recipe because it is:

• Healthy and refreshing, packed with lean protein, fiber, and good fats
• Quick and easy, requiring minimal cooking
• Customizable, allowing endless variations
• Perfect for entertaining, as it looks beautiful and tastes even better
• Ideal for meal prep, with ingredients that stay fresh for days

Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, explore global flavors, or impress guests, this recipe is a must-try for its taste, texture, and simplicity.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Makes 8 fresh spring rolls (4 servings)
• Calories: ~Approximately 180–220 calories per roll, depending on sauce used
• Course: Appetizer / Light Lunch
• Cuisine: Vietnamese-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Spring Rolls

• 12–16 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or napa cabbage
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 small cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles (optional)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Dipping Sauce (Peanut Sauce)

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Warm water to thin

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the shrimp in boiling salted water for 2–3 minutes until pink and firm. Drain, cool, and slice each shrimp in half lengthwise.
2. Prep all filling ingredients: slice avocado, shred lettuce, and julienne vegetables.
3. Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip rice paper in the water for 5 seconds until soft.
4. Place softened rice paper on a flat surface. Layer vegetables, herbs, shrimp, avocado, and noodles (if using).
5. Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining rolls.
7. Whisk all peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Shrimp
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes.
   • Remove, drain, and let cool. Slice each shrimp in half lengthwise for easier rolling and better presentation.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
   • Wash and dry all greens and herbs thoroughly.
   • Slice avocado just before rolling to prevent browning.
   • Julienne the cucumber and carrot into thin matchsticks.
3. Prepare the Rice Paper
   • Fill a shallow bowl with warm water.
   • Dip one rice paper wrapper for about 5 seconds until it softens but does not become too mushy.
4. Assemble the Rolls
   • Lay softened wrapper on a board.
   • Add lettuce or cabbage first to create a base.
   • Add vegetables, herbs, avocado slices, and shrimp.
   • Place shrimp near the top for a clean, aesthetic look once rolled.
5. Roll the Spring Rolls
   • Fold the bottom up over the filling.
   • Fold in the two sides.
   • Roll upward tightly until sealed.
6. Prepare the Sauce
   • Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic.
   • Add warm water to reach desired consistency.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately with peanut sauce or Vietnamese nuoc cham.
• Slice each roll in half diagonally for a beautiful presentation.
• Garnish with lime wedges, extra herbs, or crushed peanuts.

Recipe Tips

• Do not oversoak the rice paper; it will become sticky and tear.
• Keep vegetables thinly sliced to make rolling easier.
• Use fresh herbs generously for authentic flavor.
• Cover finished rolls with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
• Shrimp can be grilled or sautéed for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Spring Rolls
   • Replace shrimp with tofu, tempeh, or grilled mushrooms.
   • Add mango or pineapple for sweetness.
2. Spicy Shrimp Rolls
   • Add thin slices of jalapeño or sriracha drizzle inside the roll.
   • Toss shrimp in chili garlic sauce before assembling.
3. Mango Shrimp Rolls
   • Add ripe mango slices for tropical sweetness.
4. Rainbow Rolls
   • Use purple cabbage, bell peppers, and herbs for colorful rolls.
5. Low-Carb Rolls
   • Skip vermicelli noodles and increase crunchy vegetables.

Freezing and Storage

• Fresh spring rolls do not freeze well; rice paper becomes tough and cracks.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours wrapped individually in plastic wrap.
• Keep them lightly moistened with a damp towel to prevent drying.
• Store sauce separately for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Special Equipment Needed

• Shallow bowl or dish for dipping rice paper
• Sharp knife for slicing vegetables
• Cutting board
• Small bowl for sauce
• Clean surface for rolling

FAQ

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, make them within 12–24 hours of serving.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Thaw completely before cooking.

3. Can the rolls be warmed?
No, they are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

4. What if my rice paper tears?
Use two wrappers at once or fill them with less ingredients.

5. Can I skip the peanut sauce?
Yes. Nuoc cham, sweet chili sauce, or soy-lime dressing also work well.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Avocado Fresh Spring Rolls are a refreshing, nutritious, and beautiful dish that requires minimal cooking yet delivers incredible flavor. With their vibrant ingredients, customizable fillings, and delightful textures, they make a perfect lunch, appetizer, or party addition. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy something light, wholesome, and full of fresh herbs and natural goodness. Enjoy crafting each roll and savoring every bright, flavorful bite.