Description
These fresh and vibrant Lettuce Wrap Summer Rolls are a perfect no-cook appetizer bursting with crunchy vegetables, aromatic herbs, and optional avocado and nuts for added texture. Wrapped in tender butter or Bibb lettuce leaves, they make a light and flavorful Asian-inspired vegan and gluten-free dish served best with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Wraps
- 8 large butter or Bibb lettuce leaves
- 1 cup cooked rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber matchsticks
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup purple cabbage, finely shredded
Herbs and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews (optional)
Dipping Sauce
- Dipping sauce of choice (such as peanut sauce or nuoc cham)
Instructions
- Prepare Lettuce Leaves: Rinse the butter or Bibb lettuce leaves thoroughly and pat them dry gently with paper towels. Lay each leaf flat on a clean surface to create a base for assembling the rolls.
- Layer the Fillings: Place a small handful of cooked rice noodles in the center of each lettuce leaf. Then add shredded carrots, cucumber matchsticks, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and finely shredded purple cabbage on top of the noodles.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Nestle a few leaves each of fresh mint, cilantro, and basil over the vegetables to infuse the rolls with fragrant, fresh flavors.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, add slices of creamy avocado and sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top for a delightful combination of texture and richness.
- Roll the Wraps: Gently fold the sides of the lettuce leaves slightly inward and then roll tightly from the bottom upwards, similar to wrapping a burrito, ensuring the fillings stay enclosed. Place each roll seam-side down on a serving plate.
- Serve: Serve the lettuce wrap summer rolls immediately with your preferred dipping sauce, such as peanut sauce or nuoc cham, for an invigorating, fresh appetizer.
Notes
- Customize these rolls by adding grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken for extra protein.
- Keep all ingredients chilled to maintain a refreshing summer texture and taste.
- If preparing ahead, wrap each roll individually in damp paper towels and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
