If you love the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese spring rolls but want something quicker and easier, this Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is the perfect solution. It has all the refreshing elements — crisp veggies, rice noodles, herbs, and a zesty, spicy dressing — deconstructed into a bold, beautiful salad that’s easy to toss together and enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
🥗 All the flavor of spring rolls with none of the rolling
🌿 Herbaceous & fresh with mint, cilantro, and basil
🌶️ Spicy-sweet ginger dressing that’s crave-worthy
🧊 Light and refreshing, yet satisfying
🕒 Ready in 20 minutes — great for lunch or meal prep
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 oz rice noodles (thin vermicelli or pad thai-style)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cucumber, julienned or spiralized
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/4 cup Thai basil or regular basil
- Optional: sliced avocado, chopped peanuts, grilled tofu or shrimp
For the Spicy Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Prepare rice noodles according to package directions. Rinse under cold water, drain well, and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl or shake in a jar. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the noodles, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, cabbage, and herbs. Toss to mix.
Step 4: Dress & Garnish
Pour dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Top with avocado slices, chopped peanuts, or your favorite protein. Serve immediately or chill for extra freshness.
Variations
- Add grilled shrimp, tofu, or chicken for protein
- Swap zoodles or shredded lettuce for rice noodles for a low-carb version
- Use peanut dressing for a different flavor twist
- Add mango or edamame for a sweet-savory balance
Perfect For:
- Light lunches or dinners
- Meal prep (dressing kept separate until serving)
- Potlucks or picnics
- Vegan and gluten-free diets
Final Thoughts
This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is everything you love about Asian-inspired cuisine: bold, fresh, and full of texture. With its crunchy veggies, tender noodles, and tangy-spicy dressing, it’s the kind of healthy meal that never feels like a compromise — only a treat.