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As the sun sets and a gentle breeze carries the sweet scents of summer, nothing feels more invigorating than a bowl brimming with vibrant, fresh ingredients. That’s the beauty of Vietnamese Summer Roll Bowls—a delightful twist on the beloved classic summer rolls. One evening, after returning from a bustling farmer’s market, I couldn’t resist the urge to combine plump shrimp, crisp veggies, and lush herbs into a colorful creation. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette and a creamy peanut dressing, and you’ve got a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

What I love most about these bowls is their incredible versatility; they’re not just meals, but an adventure. You can mix and match ingredients based on your mood and pantry staples, ensuring that each bowl feels unique. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for friends, these summer roll bowls are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to brighten your table and tantalize your taste buds!

Why Will You Love Summer Roll Bowls?

Freshness comes alive in these bowls, showcasing an array of colorful veggies and aromatic herbs that invigorate your palate.
Quick to prepare, you can whip up these delightful bowls in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable in nature, you can easily substitute ingredients, experimenting with different proteins, veggies, or dressings to suit your taste.
Light yet filling, each bowl strikes the perfect balance between satisfying and healthy, making it an ideal choice for those warm summer evenings.
Crowd-pleaser potential means your guests will rave about the vibrant flavors, ensuring this dish steals the spotlight at your next gathering!

Summer Roll Bowls Ingredients

• You’ll need fresh and vibrant ingredients for delightful Summer Roll Bowls!

For the Dressing

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors; use honey or agave syrup as an alternative.
Fresh Lime Juice – Provides acidity and brightness; opt for freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
Fish Sauce – Offers umami depth; substitute with soy sauce or coconut aminos for a vegetarian option.
Chili Garlic Paste – Enhances spiciness; adjust to your heat preference.

For the Peanut Dressing

Hoisin Sauce – A sweet base for the peanut dressing, bringing richness to the flavor profile.
All-Natural Creamy Peanut Butter – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; almond or sunflower seed butter works too.
Unseasoned Rice Vinegar – Adds mild acidity; apple cider vinegar makes for a suitable substitute.

For the Bowls

Medium Shrimp, peeled and deveined – A delicious protein choice; use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Straight-Cut Rice Noodles – Serve as a base for the bowls; zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option.
Thinly Sliced Romaine Lettuce – Adds a refreshing crunch; spinach or arugula can be used instead.
Carrot, sliced into long batons – Provides vibrant color and crunch; bell peppers are an excellent substitute.
Persian Cucumber, sliced into long batons – Adds a refreshing crunch; feel free to use regular cucumber if you’d like.
Avocado, thinly sliced – Offers creaminess and healthy fats; olives create a different flavor profile if preferred.
Mixed Fresh Herbs (Mint, Cilantro, Thai Basil) – Enhances freshness and aroma; use your favorites or skip if desired.
Unsalted Roasted Peanuts – For garnish and crunch; sesame seeds serve as a nut-free alternative.

How to Make Summer Roll Bowls

Prepare Dressings: In a bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, fresh lime juice, fish sauce, and chili garlic paste to create the tangy vinaigrette. In another bowl, mix hoisin sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, and chili garlic for the peanut dressing.
Steam Shrimp: Fill a pot with seasoned water and bring it to a gentle boil. Carefully place the shrimp inside a steamer basket and steam them until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes—be cautious not to overcook!
Cook Rice Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking.
Assemble Bowls: Grab a serving bowl and place a generous bed of rice noodles at the bottom. Top it with your perfectly steamed shrimp, a variety of thinly sliced veggies, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and flavor.
Drizzle with Dressings: Spoon the tangy vinaigrette generously over the assembled ingredients. Serve the peanut dressing on the side, allowing everyone to add as much as they desire!
Adjust to Preference: For a playful dining experience, either arrange the ingredients in quadrants for a “choose-your-own-adventure” meal or toss everything together for a delightful mélange of flavors.
Serve Immediately: For the freshest taste, enjoy your delightful summer roll bowls right after preparing them.

Optional: Squeeze additional lime juice over the bowls for an extra punch of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Summer Roll Bowls are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal prep! You can prepare the tangy vinaigrette and peanut dressing up to 3 days in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their vibrant flavors. The shrimp can be steamed and refrigerated for up to 2 days. However, cutting fresh veggies like avocado, cucumber, or carrot should be done just before serving to keep them crisp and vibrant. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the shrimp if desired, assemble the bowls, and drizzle with your prepped dressings for a refreshing, stress-free meal!

How to Store and Freeze Summer Roll Bowls

Fridge: Store leftover summer roll bowls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressings separate to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing assembled bowls, as fresh veggies may lose their texture. Instead, freeze only the cooked shrimp and noodles in freezer bags for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat shrimp and noodles, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop until heated through—avoid microwave to retain texture.

Prep Ahead: The dressings can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it convenient for quick assembly later.

Expert Tips for Summer Roll Bowls

Watch the Shrimp: Always keep an eye on shrimp while steaming; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for pink and opaque!
Dressings in Advance: Prepare both dressings a day ahead; they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, with flavors developing beautifully over time.
Fresh is Best: To maintain the crunch and color of veggies, slice fresh ingredients just before serving your summer roll bowls.
Mix and Match: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or proteins. Using grilled chicken or tofu can give your meal a unique twist.
Keep it Gluten-Free: Ensure your rice noodles are certified gluten-free to keep the dish perfect for all dietary needs without losing taste.

Summer Roll Bowls Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these summer roll bowls your own with these exciting variations!

Gluten-Free: Replace rice noodles with zucchini noodles or spiralized veggies for a grain-free alternative.
Vegan Delight: Use tofu or tempeh instead of shrimp and swap fish sauce with coconut aminos for a plant-based twist.
Heat Level Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Fresh Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or dill for a unique flavor boost that complements the existing herbs beautifully.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter in the dressing for a delicious, nut-free alternative.
Protein Swap: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken, beef, or even chickpeas for varied protein options that suit your taste.
Crunch Variation: Toss in chopped water chestnuts or crispy fried shallots to add extra texture and delightful crunch.
Citrus Splash: Experiment with different citrus juices, like orange or grapefruit, in the dressings for a fresh and bright twist.

Let your imagination run wild and watch as each bowl transforms into an exciting new experience!

What to Serve with Vietnamese Summer Roll Bowls?

As you savor the refreshing flavors of these colorful bowls, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your meal experience.

Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet, fragrant rice complements the savory notes of summer roll bowls and adds a delightful creaminess.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The charred sweetness and smokiness of grilled corn provide a delightful contrast to the cool freshness of the bowls.
Mango Salad: A zesty mango salad with lime dressing brightens up the meal, bringing a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
Chilled Cucumber Soup: Creamy and refreshing, a vegan cucumber soup offers a smooth, cooling sensation that balances the dish’s textures and flavors.
Peanut Dipping Sauce: Serve an extra bowl of peanut sauce alongside for those who can’t get enough of that creamy goodness—it’s a hit!
Lychee Mocktail: A sparkling mocktail made with lychee juice and mint adds a fruity, refreshing beverage to your dining experience.
Sesame Noodles: Asian-inspired sesame noodles offer a similar flavor profile and provide a satisfying alternative to rice noodles in your main dish.

Summer Roll Bowls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right veggies for my summer roll bowls?
Absolutely! Freshness is key, so select vibrant vegetables that are in season. Look for firm carrots, crisp cucumbers, and leafy greens without any dark spots or wilting. Organic options often offer better taste and texture, and can elevate your dish to the next level!

How should I store leftover summer roll bowls?
Very good question! For storing leftovers, place the components in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the dressings separate, and enjoy everything within 3 days for optimal freshness. This prevents the veggies from getting soggy, ensuring you’re still treated to a delightful crunch.

Can I freeze the ingredients for summer roll bowls?
While it’s best to avoid freezing the assembled bowls due to the risk of losing that fresh crispness, you can certainly freeze the shrimp and cooked noodles! Just place them in freezer bags, ensuring that as much air as possible is removed before sealing. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them on the stovetop.

What if I don’t have fish sauce?
Not to worry! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. If you’re out of fish sauce or need a vegetarian option, soy sauce or coconut aminos work beautifully as alternatives. Both will still give your dressing that umami flavor and depth, making your summer roll bowls equally delicious!

Can I serve summer roll bowls to my gluten-sensitive friends?
Of course! Just ensure that the rice noodles you choose are gluten-free, which they often are. Additionally, double-check that your chili garlic paste and hoisin sauce are labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can delight in the refreshing taste of summer rolls without worry.

How far in advance can I prepare the dressings?
Great question! You can prepare both the tangy vinaigrette and the peanut dressing up to 3 days in advance. By storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, you’ll have vibrant flavors ready to go, making it super convenient for a quick meal on busy days!