The Salmon Spring Rolls are a refreshing twist on a classic, combining flaked salmon with crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and fragrant herbs all wrapped up in delicate rice paper. These rolls are paired with a spicy peanut dipping sauce that adds richness and a satisfying kick to every bite.
Perfect for a summer lunch, light dinner, or healthy appetizer, these spring rolls are not only beautiful but also nutrient-packed. They come together quickly, require no cooking (just assemble and roll!), and are entirely gluten-free and dairy-free. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to impress at your next gathering, this dish delivers both flavor and freshness.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
For the rolls:
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8 rice paper wrappers
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6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
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1/2 cup shredded carrots
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1 cup shredded red cabbage
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1 small cucumber, julienned
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1 avocado, sliced
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
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1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
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1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
For the peanut dipping sauce:
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3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
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1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp honey
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1 tsp sriracha
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2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin, as needed)
Directions:
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Prepare all your filling ingredients and set up a clean work surface.
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Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 seconds, just until pliable.
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Lay the wrapper flat on a clean surface. In the bottom third of the wrapper, layer a few strips of salmon, carrots, cabbage, cucumber, avocado, and fresh herbs.
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Fold in the sides of the wrapper and roll tightly from the bottom, like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers and ingredients.
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To make the sauce, whisk together all peanut sauce ingredients until smooth, adding water 1 tbsp at a time to reach desired consistency.
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Serve the rolls immediately with peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per roll | Servings: 4 servings (2 rolls per serving)
The Perfect Light and Nutritious Meal: Salmon Spring Rolls
Salmon spring rolls are a fusion of vibrant ingredients, fresh flavors, and nourishing textures. Inspired by traditional Vietnamese fresh rolls, this dish features tender cooked salmon, crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and fragrant herbs wrapped in delicate rice paper. It’s a dish that’s refreshing, satisfying, and perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to heavy or fried foods.
What sets this recipe apart is its clean simplicity. Unlike deep-fried egg rolls or heavy noodle-based dishes, salmon spring rolls are made without oil, served cold, and require no stove time for assembly—making them an ideal option for warmer days, meal prepping, or post-workout meals.
This recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re following a clean-eating lifestyle or just trying to get more vegetables into your day, this dish delivers.
Why Choose Salmon for Spring Rolls?
Salmon is one of the most nutrient-dense proteins you can include in your meals. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants like astaxanthin. These nutrients support heart health, brain function, joint mobility, and even skin vitality.
Using cooked salmon in spring rolls adds not just flavor, but a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables and smooth avocado. It makes the dish feel more substantial and filling, while still being light enough for a midday meal or appetizer.
Additionally, cooked salmon is incredibly versatile—you can use leftover grilled salmon, poached fillets, or even canned salmon in a pinch. That flexibility makes these rolls a great way to use up leftovers or transform simple ingredients into something elegant.
A Rainbow of Fresh Ingredients
Color is an essential part of healthy eating, and this dish truly celebrates the rainbow. From purple cabbage and orange carrots to green cucumber and herbs, every bite is loaded with vitamins and minerals. The variety of textures—crunchy, creamy, soft, and chewy—keeps the dish exciting and satisfying.
Cabbage is rich in fiber and vitamin C, while carrots provide beta-carotene for vision and immune support. Cucumber adds hydration and a refreshing crunch, and avocado delivers heart-healthy fats and potassium. The herbs—typically mint and cilantro—offer a burst of freshness that brings all the ingredients together in harmony.
This dish is also highly adaptable. Don’t like mint? Swap it with Thai basil. Prefer mango instead of avocado? Go for it. Want to add vermicelli noodles or chopped peanuts? The rolls are endlessly customizable.
The Secret Weapon: Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce
No spring roll experience is complete without a great dipping sauce, and the spicy peanut sauce in this recipe elevates the entire dish. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat to balance the fresh flavors of the rolls.
Made from natural peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of honey, and sriracha, this sauce is the perfect partner to the soft, cool rolls. It’s also great as a salad dressing or drizzled over grain bowls, making it a versatile addition to your culinary toolkit.
You can adjust the spice level to your taste, add lime juice for brightness, or a splash of sesame oil for deeper flavor. Make a double batch—you’ll want to dip everything in it!
A Great Meal Prep Option
Salmon spring rolls make for excellent meal prep. Though they are best when freshly rolled, you can prep all the fillings in advance and assemble them just before eating. Store the cut vegetables and cooked salmon in airtight containers in the fridge, and wrap as needed.
Alternatively, you can roll them ahead of time and store them wrapped in damp paper towels and plastic wrap to keep them from drying out. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, work-from-home meals, or quick snacks. The dipping sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and used with various dishes.
If you’re hosting a party, consider setting up a DIY spring roll bar where guests can create their own combinations—this interactive food setup is always a hit and encourages healthy eating in a fun, engaging way.
Perfect for Entertaining and Special Diets
If you’re planning a dinner party, picnic, or light lunch with friends, these rolls make for an elegant and healthy offering. Their colorful presentation is always impressive, and their fresh flavor suits a wide range of palates.
For guests with dietary restrictions, these rolls check many boxes: they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be made vegetarian or vegan by swapping out the salmon for tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas. For low-carb eaters, these rolls are a dream come true, especially when paired with a low-sugar dipping sauce.
They’re also ideal for those following anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean, or heart-healthy diets thanks to the abundance of vegetables and omega-3 fats from the salmon.
Tips for Rolling Like a Pro
Rolling rice paper can seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. The key is to avoid over-soaking the rice paper. Dip it for just 5–10 seconds in warm water—it should still feel slightly firm when you take it out. It will continue to soften as you assemble.
Another tip is to arrange the ingredients in a horizontal line near the bottom third of the wrapper, fold the sides inward first, then roll from the bottom up, keeping it tight as you go. Don’t overfill—less is more when it comes to achieving a neat and tidy roll.
If you want your rolls to look extra stunning, layer a slice of avocado or a sprig of cilantro as the first item on the rice paper before rolling—this way it shows through the wrapper on top.
Conclusion: A Fresh Take on Healthy Eating
Salmon spring rolls are more than just a dish—they’re an experience in freshness, balance, and vibrant eating. With their nutrient-packed ingredients, minimal prep, and customizable nature, they are the perfect choice for anyone wanting a healthier meal without compromising flavor.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, entertaining guests, or simply looking to boost your veggie intake, these rolls deliver. They’re quick to prepare, beautiful to serve, and incredibly satisfying to eat. Paired with a bold and creamy peanut sauce, this dish will easily become a favorite in your healthy recipe collection.
Salmon spring rolls showcase how clean eating can be colorful, delicious, and exciting—one bite at a time.