Laura Mariano
Introduction to Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing
Light, refreshing, and vibrant, Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is a deconstructed take on the beloved Vietnamese spring roll. Perfect for healthy lunches, summer dinners, or meal prep, this salad captures the essence of fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and tender protein, all tied together with a bold, tangy dressing.
Instead of wrapping ingredients in rice paper, everything is layered into a colorful bowl, making it easier to prepare and more versatile. Crisp carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers provide crunch, while rice noodles add chewiness and balance. Protein options like shrimp, chicken, or tofu make the dish customizable to dietary preferences.
The star of the salad is the spicy ginger dressing—a lively blend of ginger, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. It delivers a punch of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Garnished with peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs, this salad is a celebration of texture and taste.
The Inspiration Behind the Dish
Traditional Vietnamese spring rolls are the foundation of this recipe, known for their delicate rice paper wrappers filled with vegetables, herbs, and protein. While delicious, rolling spring rolls can be time-consuming. This salad offers a convenient alternative by deconstructing the rolls into a bowl format.
The fusion of crunchy vegetables, tender noodles, and aromatic herbs remains intact, but the presentation is simplified. The spicy ginger dressing adds a modern twist, infusing the dish with tangy heat and sweetness. It’s a way to enjoy the flavors of spring rolls without the fuss, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Flavor Profile Breakdown
- Crisp vegetables: Carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers bring crunch and freshness.
- Rice noodles: Light and chewy, they provide a neutral base that absorbs dressing.
- Protein: Shrimp, chicken, or tofu add substance and balance.
- Spicy ginger dressing: Tangy, sweet, and fiery, it elevates the salad with bold flavor.
- Herbs: Mint, cilantro, and basil brighten the dish with aromatic freshness.
Together, these elements create a salad that’s crisp, savory, refreshing, and satisfying.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Vegetables: Carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and lettuce form the crunchy foundation. Slice thinly for the best texture and presentation.
- Rice noodles: Vermicelli or thin rice noodles add chewiness and soak up the dressing.
- Protein: Grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu provide flexibility and make the salad filling.
- Dressing: A mix of grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes creates a spicy-sweet balance.
- Garnishes: Peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil) add crunch, aroma, and color.
Tip: Slice vegetables thinly for the best texture and presentation.
Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Recipe | Fresh & Healthy Meal
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board and knife
- Saucepan (for noodles)
- Whisk for dressing
Ingredients
- 6 oz rice noodles or vermicelli
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 lb grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu
Dressing: 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 1 garlic clove minced, juice of 2 limes, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp chili flakes
Garnishes: ¼ cup chopped peanuts, 1 tbsp sesame seeds, fresh mint, cilantro, and basil
Instructions
- Prepare noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Chop vegetables and herbs: Julienne carrots, slice cucumber and bell pepper, shred lettuce, and chop herbs.
- Cook protein: Grill or sauté shrimp until pink, chicken until golden and cooked through, or tofu until crisp.
- Make dressing: Whisk ginger, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes until smooth.
- Toss salad: In a large bowl, combine noodles, vegetables, and protein. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Garnish and serve: Top with peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs. Serve in bowls or on a platter.
Notes
- Tip: Slice vegetables thinly for the best texture and presentation.
- Make-ahead: Store dressing separately and toss just before serving.
- Variations: Try vegan with tofu, extra spicy with sriracha, or low-carb with zucchini noodles.
- Serving idea: Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a colorful party salad.
