Fresh Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls are a healthy, light snack you can whip up in no time. Slices of fresh vegetables, crunchy rice noodles, and greens are all wrapped together in a soft rice paper wrapper.

Ingredients:

For the Rolls:

• Rice paper wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
• 1 cup cooked and cooled rice vermicelli noodles
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and/or basil)
• Cooked and peeled shrimp or shredded cooked chicken (optional)
• Rice paper dipping sauce (hoisin sauce mixed with a bit of water for thinning)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Cook rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
   • Have all your vegetables, herbs, and protein (if using) sliced, shredded, or prepared and ready to go.
2. Prepare a Work Surface:
   • Fill a large shallow bowl or pie dish with warm water. Ensure it's wide enough to fit the rice paper wrappers.
3. Soften the Rice Paper:
   • Dip one rice paper wrapper into the warm water for about 5-10 seconds until it becomes pliable but not too soft.
4. Assemble the Roll:
   • Place the softened rice paper on a clean, flat surface.
   • On the lower third of the wrapper, place a small handful of rice vermicelli noodles, followed by lettuce, cucumber, carrots, fresh herbs, and your choice of protein.
5. Rolling:
   • Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then gently roll from the bottom up to form a tight roll.
6. Repeat:
   • Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
7. Serve with Dipping Sauce:
   • Serve the fresh spring rolls with a side of rice paper dipping sauce.
8. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your fresh spring rolls immediately.

These rolls are customizable, so feel free to add or omit ingredients based on your preferences.