Rice paper rolls are a refreshing, versatile dish loved for their crisp texture and colorful presentation. Originating from Vietnam, these rolls have become a popular choice around the world for their balance of fresh ingredients, healthful appeal, and adaptability. Typically made with rice paper wrappers filled with vegetables, herbs, and protein, they offer a light and satisfying option that works equally well as an appetizer, lunch, or party platter centerpiece.
One of the most appealing aspects of rice paper rolls is their visual beauty. Thin rice paper becomes nearly transparent when soaked, showcasing the vibrant ingredients inside — from bright green lettuce and fresh mint leaves to shredded carrots, cucumbers, and sometimes even slices of mango or red cabbage. The rolls are often filled with cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, tofu, or vermicelli noodles, making them hearty enough to be filling while still light on the stomach.
What sets rice paper rolls apart is their fresh flavor. Unlike fried spring rolls, they’re served cold and raw, highlighting the natural taste of each ingredient. Herbs like cilantro, Thai basil, and mint add an aromatic complexity, while the rice paper offers a satisfying chewiness that holds everything together without overpowering the other flavors. A dipping sauce is essential — peanut sauce or nuoc cham (a sweet-sour Vietnamese fish sauce-based dip) brings an extra layer of richness and tang.
These rolls are perfect for warm-weather meals or anytime you want something quick, healthy, and flavorful. They’re naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan or vegetarian without sacrificing taste. Customizing the filling to suit your preferences or use up what’s in the fridge makes them incredibly flexible. They’re also fun to assemble with family or guests, allowing everyone to create their own combinations.
Rice paper rolls are a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Whether you serve them as a starter or a full meal, they’re sure to impress with their bright flavors and wholesome goodness.
Ingredients
- 8 sheets rice paper for wrapping
- 1 cup shredded lettuce washed and dried
- 1 cup cooked shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup carrot julienned
- 1/2 cup cucumber julienned
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves whole leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro whole leaves
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and slicing vegetables and herbs.
- Fill a large bowl with warm water and dip a sheet of rice paper in it for about 10-15 seconds until it starts to soften.
- Lay the softened rice paper on a clean, damp kitchen towel.
- Place a small amount of lettuce, shrimp, carrot, cucumber, mint, and cilantro on the bottom third of the rice paper.
- Fold in the sides of the rice paper and then roll tightly from the bottom to seal the fillings.
- Repeat the process with the remaining rice papers and fillings.
- Serve immediately with dipping sauce, or store in the fridge with a damp towel over the rolls to keep them fresh.
Quick and easy! I used chicken instead of shrimp and it still turned out delicious! Will make again.
Chicken sounds like a good swap! I might try that next time. Good to know it still tastes great!
I don’t think chicken would be as good as shrimp. Shrimp gives it that special flavor! But whatever works for you.
These are amazing! I made them for a party, and everyone loved them. Super fresh and crunchy!
I’m so glad to hear that! They really are a crowd-pleaser. Did you serve them with any special sauce?
I don’t get it. The rice paper just falls apart! Maybe I did something wrong? Feels like a waste of shrimp. 😕
Made these for my party and everyone loved em! Can’t believe how simple they were.
Sounds delicious! I’m gonna try this for my next gathering too. Thanks for sharing!
This is a good recipe, but I think it needs more sauce. Maybe a peanut sauce would work?
How do ya even eat these things? They fall apart like paper, haha! Not for me.
These are so refreshing! Perfect for summer picnics. 🙂
Are you sure these are healthy? Shrimp isn’t that great. I would add tofu instead.
I had a lot of trouble rolling these. They kept falling apart!
I’ve had the same issue! Sometimes the rice papers tear easily if they’re in the water too long. Maybe try just dipping them quickly?
Really enjoyed these! One question, can I use lettuce wraps instead of rice paper?
Absolutely, lettuce wraps would work great! Just make sure they’re sturdy, so they don’t tear. Enjoy!
I don’t think that’ll taste the same. Rice paper has a unique texture. You should stick to it!
Wow, these are so colorful! Great for summer. I add chicken instead of shrimp though.
These are amazing! So fresh and tasty! Will make again!
I totally agree! These rolls are so refreshing, especially with that dipping sauce! Yum!🍤
Do you really need to soak the paper? I just slapped everything on dry and rolled it haha!
Um, I used fake shrimp. How bad is that? Still tasted good.
Rice paper rolls? More like rice paper fails. Total messy disaster. 0/5.
These are like the best thing ever! My kids loved them too.
Best thing ever? Really? I thought they were just okay. Maybe I did something wrong?
I’m glad your kids loved them! They are super fun to make together too!
I tried making these but the rice paper was too sticky. What did I do wrong?
Idk man, didn’t turn out like the pic. Mine fell apart, taste was ok tho.
Eh, rice paper rolls can be hard to keep together. I don’t even try to roll them anymore, I just make a salad with the same stuff!
Maybe you soaked the rice paper too long? They’re tricky at first but practice makes perfect!