All of the fresh herbs that we have growing on our little deck inspired this recipe for summer rolls. We have a ton of basil and some very fragrant Thai basil, among other plants like Thai chiles, tomatoes, peppers, and even figs. We’re very proud of our little plant escape, and when I say “we” I mean that I’m very proud that Jack has been lovingly watering everything up to twice a day to keep it all going. This might be the longest that we’ve actually kept plants alive.
Dipping Sauce for Summer Rolls
Since I know many of you also have lots of basil at this time of year, I made these fresh summer rolls with a creamy coconut basil dipping sauce. It’s the kind of sauce that I would normally make with cilantro, but the sweet basil flavor is so fresh and unexpected, especially alongside fresh ginger. A little cashew butter makes it extra creamy, lime brightens it up, and jalapeño adds some heat. If you want another sauce option, try this peanut sauce, this creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing, or the tamari-lime sauce from this this recipe. Plain tamari or soy sauce would be good too!
Filling for Summer Rolls
For the filling, I gathered the usual ingredients that I would stuff into Vietnamese spring rolls – avocado, cucumber, tofu, radishes, and noodles. I felt like it needed a little more, so I thought what I often think in the summer – “peaches!” Peaches and basil are a tasty pairing and, in my opinion, it’s the season to throw peach slices on everything. If peaches aren’t in season, use slices of ripe mango instead or skip the fruit altogether.
Summer Roll Variations
Try baked tempeh instead of tofu. Instead of rice noodles, try zucchini noodles. For heartier rolls, add sautéed mushrooms.
Summer rolls can be difficult to wrap, but I have one tip: get 28cm wrappers, they’re so much easier to work with than smaller ones. I usually get the Three Ladies Brand, which you can find at any asian market. I have a tendency to want to overstuff my rolls, and the larger wrappers are easier to handle. I love to eat these for lunch, it’s a nice change from my go-to avocado toast. If you wanted to make a bigger meal, they would pair nicely with this Carrot Coconut Gazpacho or this Cucumber Salad. Or if you have extra peaches and herbs, make this Spicy Ginger Miso Slaw with Peaches!
If you love this summer roll recipe…
Try these fresh recipes:
Fresh Spring Rolls Avocado Soba Noodles Seared Tofu Banh Mi Sandwiches Maki Sushi Avocado Cucumber Sushi Rolls Homemade Bao Buns
Check out this post for more lunch ideas and this post for more appetizers.
