Fresh Summer Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and colorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather, Fresh Summer Rolls are the way to go. These Vietnamese-inspired rolls are packed with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, rice noodles, and often shrimp or tofu, all wrapped in delicate rice paper. To top it off, they’re served with a Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

What Are Fresh Summer Rolls?

Unlike deep-fried spring rolls, Fresh Summer Rolls are served cold and typically not cooked. The ingredients are kept fresh, making them a healthier, lighter alternative that still packs plenty of flavor. They’re also incredibly versatile—you can customize them with your favorite proteins or keep them entirely plant-based.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Summer Rolls:

  • Rice paper wrappers (available at most grocery stores or Asian markets)
  • Rice vermicelli noodles (cooked and cooled)
  • Shrimp, tofu, or chicken (cooked and sliced, optional)
  • Fresh vegetables: cucumber, bell pepper, carrot, lettuce
  • Fresh herbs: mint, cilantro, basil

For the Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

How to Make Fresh Summer Rolls

Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and let them cool.
  2. Prepare your protein of choice (shrimp, tofu, chicken) by cooking and slicing it into thin strips.
  3. Slice vegetables into thin, manageable strips for easy rolling.
  4. Gather fresh herbs and keep them whole for a burst of flavor.

Rolling the Summer Rolls

  1. Fill a shallow dish with warm water.
  2. Dip a rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10–15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable.
  3. Lay the wrapper flat on a clean surface.
  4. Arrange your fillings (noodles, protein, vegetables, herbs) near the center of the wrapper.
  5. Fold the sides inward, then roll from the bottom up, keeping it tight but gentle.
  6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and ingredients.

Making the Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and sesame oil.
  2. Whisk until combined and adjust flavors to taste.

Why You’ll Love These Fresh Summer Rolls

  • They’re healthy and light, making them ideal for hot summer days.
  • Easy to customize—swap proteins, vegetables, or herbs as you like.
  • The Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce adds an irresistible, flavorful punch.

Tips for Success

  • Use fresh ingredients. The flavor and texture are best when everything is crisp and vibrant.
  • Don’t overfill the rolls. Keeping them manageable makes rolling easier.
  • Serve immediately. They taste best when freshly made but can be stored in the fridge for a few hours if needed.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a colorful appetizer, or a fun party dish, Fresh Summer Rolls with Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce deliver every time. The contrast of crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and the savory-sweet dipping sauce is sure to impress. Happy rolling!

Enjoy Watching This Video with a Similar Recipe

Source: Catherine Fulvio

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James Morgan

James is a kitchen enthusiast who enjoys preparing fresh, flavorful meals. He loves experimenting with seasonal ingredients and creating delicious dishes to share with his family. For him, cooking is more than a task; it’s a passion that connects him with others.

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