The aroma of fresh herbs and zingy ginger fills the air as I toss together this vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing. It’s like a celebration of colors and flavors straight from Southeast Asia, presenting a delightful twist on traditional spring rolls. Why settle for fast food when you can whip up something so fresh, healthy, and utterly satisfying at home? This salad not only takes just minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also packed with nutrients, ensuring you fuel your body with the good stuff. Plus, it’s completely customizable; whether you want to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or a handful of ripe mango, the possibilities are endless! Ready to explore your culinary creativity and brighten up your plate? Let’s dive in!

Why is Spring Roll Salad a Must-Try?

Freshness at its finest: This Spring Roll Salad bursts with vibrant colors and flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Southeast Asia.

Ultimate customization: Whether you prefer grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this recipe adapts to your cravings. Add tropical fruits like mango for a refreshing twist!

Quick preparation: Whip it up in just minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious without the fuss.

Nutritious goodness: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy carbohydrates, this salad is as wholesome as it is delicious.

Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings or as a light lunch, and watch it disappear—I promise it’s that irresistible! If you’re looking for more quick recipes, check out my Hawaiian Roll French and Spicy Chicken Spaghetti recipes.

Spring Roll Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

  • Rice vermicelli noodles – Forms the base of the salad; provides a chewy texture and is gluten-free if necessary.
  • Shredded carrots – Adds crunch and natural sweetness; try grated beets for a unique twist.
  • Thinly sliced bell peppers (red and yellow) – Provides color and sweetness; any color bell pepper or shredded cabbage works too.
  • Cucumber (thinly sliced) – Contributes refreshing crunch; substitute with radishes for a peppery flair.
  • Bean sprouts – Adds crunch and nutrition; feel free to omit or replace with shredded radishes if desired.
  • Fresh cilantro (chopped) – Offers a burst of herbal flavor; parsley makes a suitable substitution.
  • Fresh mint leaves (chopped) – Enhances freshness; basil can give an aromatic difference.
  • Green onions (sliced) – Adds mild onion flavor; use chives for a gentler taste.
  • Peanuts (crushed, optional) – Adds texture and nuttiness; sunflower seeds can replace for a nut-free option.

For Spicy Ginger Dressing

  • Fresh ginger (grated) – Adds spiciness and warmth; adjust quantity based on your spice preference.
  • Soy sauce – Provides umami flavor; use gluten-free soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
  • Rice vinegar – Adds acidity; apple cider vinegar makes a great substitute.
  • Honey or agave syrup – Provides sweetness; adjust based on your taste preference.
  • Sesame oil – Enhances flavor depth; olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • Chili sauce – Adds heat; feel free to adjust based on your preferred spice level.

This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is a delightful way to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors while keeping things quick and healthy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Step 1: Cook Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add rice vermicelli noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they are tender but still al dente. Drain the noodles in a colander, then rinse them under cold water until completely cooled to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
While the noodles are cooking, grab a cutting board and sharp knife to slice your vegetables. Thinly julienne the carrots and bell peppers, then slice the cucumber and green onions. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout your Spring Roll Salad, making it both visually appealing and easy to eat.

Step 3: Combine Greens
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, cucumber, and bean sprouts. Add the freshly chopped cilantro, mint leaves, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix everything together, creating a colorful base for your salad that highlights the freshness of each ingredient.

Step 4: Mix Noodles
Once the noodles are cooled, add them to the bowl of vegetables. Use tongs or a large fork to gently fold the noodles into the vegetable mixture, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the Spring Roll Salad without breaking them apart.

Step 5: Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the grated fresh ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or agave syrup, sesame oil, and chili sauce. Blend the ingredients until well combined and adjust the spice level according to your taste, ensuring the dressing has the right balance of heat and sweetness to complement your salad.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared spicy ginger dressing over the salad mixture. With clean hands or tongs, gently toss everything together until the vegetables and noodles are evenly coated in the tangy dressing. This step is crucial to ensure every bite of your Spring Roll Salad is bursting with flavor.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the beautifully dressed Spring Roll Salad onto a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added texture and crunch. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together before enjoying this vibrant salad.

What to Serve with Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the fresh flavors of your Spring Roll Salad, letting each dish shine.

  • Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these add protein and a savory touch that pairs beautifully with the crisp salad.
  • Mango Avocado Salsa: Bright tropical notes create a refreshing contrast, enhancing the salad’s flavors and adding a sweet twist.
  • Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, this dish provides a lovely texture that balances the crunch of the salad.
  • Crispy Tofu Bites: Perfect for a vegan twist! The crispy exterior gives an added crunch while absorbing the ginger dressing’s spiciness.
  • Chilled Soba Noodle Salad: Serve alongside for a cool, hearty option that complements the fresh veggies and dressing. Toss in sesame seeds for extra crunch!
  • Thai Iced Tea: The creaminess of sweetened tea pairs well with the spiciness of the dressing while satisfying your thirst.
  • Pineapple Sorbet: This light and fruity dessert provides a refreshing end to the meal, cleansing the palate after the zesty salad.
  • Spring Rolls: Keep the theme going by serving traditional spring rolls on the side—crispy, savory, and an absolute treat!
  • Lemonade Spritzer: A light, bubbly drink adds a refreshing element that complements the salad’s spiciness without overwhelming the senses.
  • Cucumber Mint Salad: Refreshing and light, this dish enhances the herbaceous notes of the Spring Roll Salad while offering a cooling reprieve.

Storage Tips for Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This keeps the vegetables crisp and fresh for a few days.

Dressing: Keep the spicy ginger dressing separate if preparing in advance. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and maintains its vibrant flavors.

Reheating: Enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat; simply toss the salad and serve for a refreshing bite.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the salad as the vegetables may lose their texture and quality when thawed. Enjoy fresh for the best experience!

Expert Tips for Spring Roll Salad

  • Dressing Balance: Taste the dressing before mixing it in. Adjust the sweetness or spice to your liking for the best flavor in your Spring Roll Salad.

  • Fresh Ingredient Prep: Chop all your vegetables uniformly. This not only makes the salad visually appealing but also ensures even flavor distribution in each bite.

  • Chill for Flavor: Allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes it a refreshing dish.

  • Custom Protein Addition: If adding protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, cook it in advance and let it cool before incorporating it into the salad.

  • Storage Tips: Keep dressing separate if you’re preparing the salad in advance. This prevents the noodles and veggies from wilting, ensuring freshness for your Spring Roll Salad.

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Variations

Feel free to get creative with this refreshing salad, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your cravings!

  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a satisfying main dish. It transforms your salad into a hearty meal that’s still light and fresh.
  • Tropical Twist: Toss in ripe mango or diced avocado for a touch of sweetness. This fruity addition elevates the salad by adding creaminess and a delightful contrast.
  • Cabbage Crunch: Use Napa cabbage as a base instead of vermicelli noodles. It adds extra crispness and volume, making your salad even more filling.
  • Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat with sliced jalapeños or an extra drizzle of chili sauce. For those who love spice, this variation is sure to ignite your taste buds!
  • Nut-Free Option: Swap out peanuts for sunflower seeds to keep the crunch while making it nut-free. Sunflower seeds provide a delightful texture without compromising on flavor.
  • Herb Variation: Experiment with herbs by substituting cilantro with fresh basil or parsley. Each herb brings its unique twist, adding freshness to your salad.
  • Noodle Alternatives: Use rice noodles, zucchini noodles, or even soba noodles for a different base. This can change the texture entirely while keeping it equally delicious.
  • Tangy Upgrade: Try adding pickled vegetables or a splash of lime juice for a zesty boost. This little touch can really elevate the overall flavor profile!
    If you enjoy this cosmopolitan salad, don’t forget to try my California Roll Sushi for another vibrant meal perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing ingredients are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can chop the vegetables and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice vermicelli noodles can be cooked and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To maintain freshness, store the spicy ginger dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy your salad, simply combine the noodles and prepped veggies, pour over the dressing, and toss everything together. You’ll have a refreshing, delicious meal ready in minutes with minimal effort!

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Recipe FAQs

What are the best practices for selecting ripe vegetables for the salad?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables for your Spring Roll Salad, look for firm and vibrant produce. Carrots should be crisp and crunchy, while bell peppers should have smooth, unblemished skins free of wrinkles or dark spots. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint should feel vibrant and aromatic, indicating freshness.

How do I store leftover Spring Roll Salad?
To maintain its freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you’ve mixed in the spicy ginger dressing, the vegetables may become a bit wilted, so I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This way, your salad stays crisp and delicious!

Can I freeze the Spring Roll Salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the Spring Roll Salad, as the fresh vegetables will lose their texture and become mushy once thawed. Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to make it ahead of time, prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator, then mix and dress them just before serving for the best taste.

What should I do if I find the salad too spicy?
Hey, it happens! If the salad ends up spicier than you intended, you can balance it by adding small amounts of honey or agave syrup to the dressing. This will counteract the heat and give it a sweet edge. Additionally, if the dressing is mixed in already, adding more noodles or vegetables can dilute the spiciness, making it more enjoyable—a win-win!

Are there any dietary considerations when making this salad?
Very! This Spring Roll Salad is quite flexible. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce, which contains gluten. Using gluten-free soy sauce is a great option for gluten-sensitive diets. Also, if you’re factoring in nut allergies, simply omit the crushed peanuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for added crunch that’s allergen-friendly!

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing: Fresh & Flavorful

Enjoy the fresh and vibrant Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing, a wholesome and customizable dish packed with flavors from Southeast Asia.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Rice vermicelli noodles Gluten-free if necessary
  • 1 cup Shredded carrots Grated beets can be used as a twist
  • 1 cup Thinly sliced bell peppers (red and yellow) Any color works or use shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup Cucumber Thinly sliced; radishes can be substituted
  • 1 cup Bean sprouts Optional, can be replaced with shredded radishes
  • 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro Chopped; parsley can substitute
  • 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves Chopped; basil for aromatic difference
  • 2 stalks Green onions Sliced; chives for milder taste
  • 1/4 cup Peanuts Crushed, optional; sunflower seeds for a nut-free option
For Spicy Ginger Dressing
  • 1 tbsp Fresh ginger Grated; adjust based on spice preference
  • 2 tbsp Soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed
  • 2 tbsp Rice vinegar Apple cider vinegar can substitute
  • 1 tbsp Honey or agave syrup Adjust sweetness to taste
  • 1 tbsp Sesame oil Olive oil can be used for a lighter option
  • 1 tbsp Chili sauce Adjust to preferred spice level

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • large mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add rice vermicelli noodles and cook according to package instructions, around 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While noodles are cooking, thinly julienne carrots and bell peppers, then slice cucumber and green onions. Aim for uniform pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, and bean sprouts. Add chopped cilantro, mint, and green onions. Toss gently.
  4. Add cooled noodles to the vegetable mixture and gently fold until evenly distributed.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together grated ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or agave, sesame oil, and chili sauce until well combined.
  6. Pour spicy ginger dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle with crushed peanuts if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill salad for best flavor. Adjust dressing sweetness or spice to personal preference. Keep dressing separate if preparing in advance to maintain crispness.

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