How to Make Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Thai summer rolls are among the top 10 most photographed healthy foods on Instagram. It's not surprising given it's fresh, vibrant, and endlessly customizable. But Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce are more than just beautiful since they’re a nutritious, satisfying meal or snack. So if you're trying to eat cleaner or impress guests with a light yet flavorful appetizer, learning how to make Thai summer rolls with peanut sauce is a skill that delivers every time. In this blog, we’ll guide you through making the ultimate homemade version with fresh vegetables, herbs, rice paper, and a rich, tangy-sweet peanut dipping sauce.

How to Make Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes

Servings: 6 summer rolls

Ingredients

For the Summer Rolls:

• • • 6 rice paper wrappers
    • 1 medium carrot, julienned
    • 1 cucumber, julienned
    • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1/2 avocado, sliced
    • 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles
    • 6 fresh mint leaves
    • 6 fresh basil leaves
    • 6 sprigs cilantro
    • Optional: 12 cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise

For the Peanut Sauce:

• • • 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
    • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
    • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
    • 1 garlic clove, minced using a Zulay Garlic Press
    • 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin sauce as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare all your fillings in advance. Use a peeler to quickly cut the carrots and cucumber. Slice the bell pepper and avocado and keep everything in separate bowls for easy assembly.

Step 2: Soak one rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 15–20 seconds, just until softened but still slightly firm. Lay it flat on a clean surface or a silicone baking mat for easy rolling.

Step 3: In the center of the wrapper, layer a small handful of vermicelli noodles, a few strips of each vegetable, and fresh herbs. Add shrimp and avocado if using.

Step 4: Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll tightly from the bottom up like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining wrappers.

Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together all peanut sauce ingredients until smooth. Add warm water gradually to achieve the desired consistency. Use a balloon whisk for a lump-free sauce.

Step 6: Serve summer rolls immediately with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. For a perfect presentation, slice each roll in half diagonally using the Kitchen Knife Set.

Tips & Twists to Try for Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce

• • Switch up the protein. Add grilled tofu, chicken, or smoked salmon instead of shrimp for different flavor profiles and dietary needs.
  • Use colorful veggies. Purple cabbage, shredded beets, or mango slices add bold color and flavor that take your rolls from ordinary to gourmet.
  • Roll ahead, serve later. Wrap finished rolls in damp paper towels and store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh for up to 24 hours.
  • Adjust the sauce to taste. Add a dash of sriracha for heat or a spoonful of coconut milk for a creamier texture.
  • Don’t overfill. Overstuffing makes rolling harder and more likely to tear the rice paper. Less is more for a tighter roll.
  • Make it a platter. Serve your rolls alongside other Thai-inspired bites like edamame, satay skewers, or mango sticky rice for a full experience.

Health Benefits of Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce

Compared to deep-fried spring rolls, Thai summer rolls are naturally low in fat and calories. Sealed with raw vegetables, fresh herbs, and lean protein, they offer high fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. The peanut sauce provides healthy fats and protein, especially if made with natural peanut butter and low-sodium soy sauce. These rolls are gluten-free and can be easily made vegan or vegetarian. Their closest counterpart, the fried egg roll, lacks the fresh crunch and nutrients and often includes added oils, making summer rolls the clear winner for health-conscious eaters.

Make Your Own Thai Summer Rolls with Peanut Sauce Today

Making Thai summer rolls with peanut sauce at home is easier than you think and far more rewarding. Once you get the hang of rolling, you’ll be customizing them for every occasion, from light lunches to fancy party appetizers. The freshness of the ingredients and the creamy kick of the peanut sauce make this dish irresistible, nutritious, and endlessly flexible. Try it today and bring the flavor of your favorite Thai restaurant into your own kitchen.

Other Kitchen Tools You Need for This Recipe

To level up your prep experience and make summer rolls with ease, consider adding these kitchen tools from Zulay Kitchen:

• • Bamboo Cutting Board – Durable and knife-friendly for slicing vegetables and proteins.
  • Salad Spinner – Perfect for drying your herbs and lettuce quickly, ensuring no soggy rolls.
  • Citrus Juicer – Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to your peanut sauce or noodle base.
  • Silicone Tongs – Great for handling delicate soaked rice paper without tearing.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level

Elevate your Thai summer rolls with premium ingredients that deliver complex flavor and balance. We suggest incorporating:

• • Sushi Night Sea Salts – Sprinkle a pinch on your peanut sauce or noodle filling for a gourmet salt finish.
  • Home Chef Flavor Kit – Add seasoning to your tofu or shrimp before rolling for an elevated taste.
  • Salt-Free Seasoning Gift Collection – Perfect for those looking to keep sodium low while keeping flavor high.
  • East Meets West Collection – Add unique global flair with Asian-inspired seasonings curated for balance and depth.

Explore more flavor-forward ingredients at our Shop Ingredients page and let your creativity roll.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I make Thai summer rolls in advance?

Yes. Summer rolls can be made up to a day ahead. Wrap them in damp paper towels and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the rice paper soft and pliable. Just make sure to serve them within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor. Avoid stacking them directly to prevent sticking.

What vegetables are best for Thai summer rolls?

Crunchy and colorful veggies work best. Think julienned carrots, cucumbers, red bell peppers, purple cabbage, and leafy greens. Fresh herbs like mint and cilantro enhance flavor. You can also include avocado for creaminess or mango for a sweet contrast. The key is balancing texture and taste.

Are Thai summer rolls gluten-free?

Most of the time, yes. Rice paper, fresh vegetables, and vermicelli noodles are naturally gluten-free. Be cautious with the dipping sauce since soy sauce often contains gluten, so opt for tamari or coconut aminos if needed. Always double-check your ingredient labels if you have gluten sensitivity.

How do I keep the rice paper from tearing?

Avoid soaking the rice paper for too long. Dip it for 15–20 seconds until just soft, then lay it flat and work quickly. Using a nonstick surface like a silicone mat helps. If the paper tears, don’t stress, just roll again with a fresh sheet.

Can I add meat or seafood to my summer rolls?

Absolutely. Cooked shrimp is a classic choice, but grilled chicken, tofu, or even marinated beef strips work well. Just ensure your protein is thinly sliced to fit within the delicate rice paper. Seasoning your protein adds depth and pairs well with the peanut sauce.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

Not by default, but it’s easy to adjust. All you have to do is add chili flakes or a squirt of sriracha if you prefer heat. Want it sweeter? More honey or maple syrup. For a tangier finish, up the rice vinegar. The sauce is incredibly flexible, so you can tailor it to your taste.

Can I serve Thai summer rolls without the dipping sauce?

Technically yes, but the peanut sauce is a huge part of the flavor experience. It adds creaminess, nuttiness, and a savory-sweet element that ties everything together. If you prefer something lighter, you can also serve the rolls with a homemade hoisin or chili-lime sauce.