Spring Roll Salad with Peanut is a fresh and crunchy dish packed with colorful veggies and a zesty peanut dressing. It captures all the flavors of traditional spring rolls but in a simple, tossed salad form. Crisp lettuce, shredded carrots, fresh herbs, and tender rice noodles come together with a creamy peanut sauce that adds just the right touch of nuttiness and spice.
I love making this salad when I want something light but satisfying. The peanut dressing is a game-changer—rich, tangy, and slightly sweet—and it makes all the veggies extra delicious. I often add some chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch and a little squeeze of lime for a bright finish. It’s such a fresh dish that feels perfect for warmer days or anytime you want a bite of spring.
This salad is great as a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner. I like to serve it with grilled chicken or tofu to make it more filling. It’s also super easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand, which makes it a fun recipe to play around with in the kitchen. Every time I make it, it feels like a fresh burst of flavor that leaves everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Romaine Lettuce & Veggies: Romaine adds crunch and mild flavor. If you prefer, try butter lettuce or kale for a different texture. Red cabbage and carrots bring color and natural sweetness. Feel free to add bell peppers or snap peas for variety.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro is key for that fresh zing, but if you don’t like it, try fresh basil or mint alone. These herbs brighten the salad and add that spring roll vibe.
Rice Noodles: These add a soft, chewy element. You can skip them or replace with glass noodles or shredded cooked chicken for more protein.
Peanut Butter Dressing: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth sauce. Natural or crunchy can work too but adjust water to reach the right consistency. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter.
How Do You Make the Peanut Dressing Creamy and Balanced?
The dressing’s creamy texture and flavor balance really make this salad stand out. Here’s how to nail it:
- Whisk peanut butter with wet ingredients like soy sauce, lime juice, and rice vinegar for tang and saltiness.
- Add a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Grate fresh ginger and mince garlic for fresh, spicy notes.
- Use warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to thin the dressing so it’s pourable but still creamy.
- Taste often and adjust: more lime for brightness, more peanut butter for richness, or a dash of sriracha for heat.
This layering of flavors creates a homemade dressing that clings beautifully to the salad without being too thick or overwhelming. It’s simple but packed with delicious flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large salad bowl – I use this to toss all the fresh ingredients easily and serve straight from.
- Whisk or fork – helps you mix the peanut dressing smoothly so it coats everything evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep your ingredients precise for a balanced flavor.
- Small bowl – perfect for whisking the dressing separately before pouring over the salad.
- Chef’s knife & cutting board – makes chopping veggies and herbs quick and safe.
- Grater or zester – needed if you grate fresh ginger or garlic for the dressing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken or shrimp for tofu or tempeh to make it vegetarian or vegan.
- Use different herbs like basil or mint for a fresh twist or skip cilantro if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Add chopped peanuts or cashews on top for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Include sliced bell peppers, radishes, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
Spring Roll Salad with Peanut
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, diced or julienned
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (optional)
- 1 cup cooked rice noodles or vermicelli, cooled
- ½ cup chopped roasted peanuts, plus extra for garnish
For The Peanut Dressing:
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh Spring Roll Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent chopping the veggies and whisking up the peanut sauce. You can serve it right away, or chill it for up to 30 minutes if you want the flavors to blend a bit more.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced cucumber, and fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, and basil if using). Add the cooked and cooled rice noodles to the bowl too.
2. Make the Peanut Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk the creamy peanut butter with soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Slowly add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing is smooth and pourable. Taste and adjust flavors – add sriracha if you want a bit of spice.
3. Toss and Serve:
Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top for extra crunch. Serve immediately, or chill for up to 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before enjoying.
Can I Use a Different Nut Butter for the Dressing?
Yes! If you’re allergic to peanuts or want a twist, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly, and you may need to adjust the seasoning to balance it out.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
It’s best to eat this salad fresh since the lettuce and herbs can wilt quickly. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate if possible to preserve freshness.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the veggies and dressing a day ahead, but toss them together right before serving to prevent sogginess. If you want to serve it chilled, mix everything just before chilling for up to 30 minutes.
What Can I Add to Make This Salad More Filling?
Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh is a great way to boost protein and make the salad a complete meal. Edamame or cooked chickpeas also work well for plant-based options.