Senior Sparks

Tasty Bites: Homemade Shrimp Summer Roll

Jul 29, 2023

Ingredients for Summer Rolls

Summer rolls, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, are a refreshing, healthy meal perfect for hot summer days. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit any dietary preferences. Here's what you'll need to make summer rolls for four people:

  • 12 rice paper wrappers
  • 2 cups of cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Option: Shrimp can be substituted for immitation crabs, tofu, meat
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 2 cups of fresh mint leaves
  • 2 cups of fresh cilantro
  • 4 ounces of rice vermicelli noodles, cooked according to package instructions
summer roll ingredients

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start rolling, you'll want to have all of your ingredients prepared and within reach. Start by cooking your shrimp and rice vermicelli noodles. While they're cooking, you can prepare your vegetables. Remember, the key to a good summer roll is a variety of textures and flavors, so don't be afraid to get creative with your fillings!

preparing summer roll ingredients

Assembling the Summer Rolls

Step 1: Soften the Rice Paper

The first step in assembling your summer rolls is to soften the rice paper. To do this, fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, just until it's pliable. Lay the softened wrapper on a flat surface.

Step 2: Add the Fillings

Next, add your fillings. Start with a small handful of noodles, then add a few pieces of shrimp, some carrot and cucumber, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Remember, don't overfill your roll! It's better to have less filling and a tight roll than too much filling and a roll that falls apart.

Step 3: Roll it Up

Now comes the fun part - rolling up your summer roll. Fold the sides of the rice paper in over the fillings, then roll it up like a burrito. The rice paper will stick to itself, sealing the roll. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.

Serving the Summer Rolls

Summer rolls are best served fresh, but they can also be made a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice - peanut sauce and hoisin sauce are both popular options. Enjoy your homemade, refreshing, and delicious summer rolls!