Fresh and Flavorful Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls Delights
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team
There s a certain thrill in the kitchen when you hear the crisp snap of fresh veggies and the delightful sizzle of fragrant lemongrass tofu. That s precisely what you ll experience with these Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls. They are a vibrant celebration of flavors, perfect for those seeking a break from the mundane fast-food routine.
One sunny afternoon, I found myself yearning for something light yet filling a dish that would refresh my palate without weighing me down. That s when these spring rolls came to mind, bursting with color and nutrients. They re incredibly quick to prepare, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or laid-back lunches. Plus, they re entirely vegan-friendly!
As you roll, fill, and dip, you ll discover not just a meal but a sensory experience one that connects you back to fresh, homemade goodness. So, gather your ingredients, and let s dive into creating these delectable rolls that promise to bring joy to your table!
Why love Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls?
Fresh and Vibrant: Bursting with colorful vegetables and aromatic lemongrass tofu, these spring rolls are a treat for the eyes and palate.
Quick to Prepare: Spend just 30 minutes whipping up these rolls, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh ingredients, each roll offers a wholesome option that s low in calories yet satisfying.
Versatile Delight: Customize your spring rolls with your favorite veggies or herbs for endless flavor combinations.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Serve them at parties or family dinners, and watch them disappear in moments. Whether enjoyed solo or paired with a dipping sauce, these delightful wraps will be the star of your table!
Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls Ingredients
Discover the perfect blend of freshness and flavor with these Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls!
For the Tofu Filling
Firm Tofu Adds protein and texture; use extra-firm tofu for better integrity.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) Enhances aroma and flavor depth.
Shallot (1, minced) Adds sweetness; can substitute with onion.
Lemongrass (1 stalk, minced) Provides a citrusy, aromatic flavor.
Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) Adds umami; use tamari for gluten-free.
Vegan Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp) Sources depth; can use hoisin for a sweeter profile.
Honey (2 tbsp) Natural sweetness; substitute with agave syrup for vegan.
Light Brown Sugar (2 tbsp) Amplifies sweetness; can use coconut sugar.
Water (1 tbsp) Used in the sauce for consistency.
Vegetable Oil (1 cup) For frying tofu; alternatives include coconut or canola oil.
For the Spring Rolls
Rice Paper (10 sheets) Wrap base; choose larger sheets for easier rolling.
Lettuce (1 head) Provides a crunchy base; butter or romaine works well.
Carrots (2 cups, shredded) Adds sweetness and crunch; can substitute with bell peppers.
Cucumbers (2 cups, julienned) Adds freshness; can swap with radishes.
Mint (1 cup) Offers refreshing flavor; can use basil or cilantro.
Vermicelli Noodles (10 oz) Provides substance; look for gluten-free options if needed.
Vegetarian Vietnamese Dipping Sauce ( ½ cup) Complements the spring rolls; use vegan nuoc cham for a lighter dip.
How to Make Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls
-
Prep Vegetables and Noodles: Start by shredding the carrots and julienning the cucumbers. Boil the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then rinse and set aside in the fridge to cool.
-
Prepare Tofu: Pat the firm tofu dry, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Heat vegetable oil in a pan to 356 °F and fry the tofu until it s golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, drain on paper towels.
-
Make Sauce: In a small saucepan, mix together minced garlic, shallot, lemongrass, soy sauce, vegan oyster sauce, honey, brown sugar, and water. Heat the mixture until it bubbles, then coat the fried tofu pieces in this delicious sauce.
-
Assemble Spring Rolls: Take a sheet of rice paper and dip it briefly in warm water to soften. On the rice paper, layer a piece of lettuce, some shredded carrots, julienned cucumbers, fresh mint, vermicelli noodles, and the sauced tofu. Roll tightly, ensuring not to overfill.
-
Serve: Place your beautifully assembled spring rolls on a platter and enjoy with a side of vegetarian dipping sauce.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or another fresh herb for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lemongrass Tofu Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls?
Enhance your meal with these delightful pairings that bring out the vibrant flavors of the spring rolls.
-
Coconut Rice: Fluffy and subtly sweet, coconut rice creates a creamy contrast to the crunchy spring rolls.
-
Peanut Dipping Sauce: Rich and savory, this sauce adds a nutty depth that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.
-
Mango Salad: Refreshing and zesty, a mango salad provides a fruity bite that cuts through the savory flavors.
-
Spicy Noodle Salad: By adding cold, spicy noodles, you bring an exciting kick that balances well with the lightness of the rolls.
-
Vegan Sushi: Roll up extra veggies and rice in nori for a sushi twist that echoes the freshness of the spring rolls.
-
Iced Green Tea: Serve with a chilled glass of this drink to cleanse the palate and enhance the meal s Asian flavors.
-
Fruit Sorbet: Light and refreshing, fruit sorbet makes for a perfect sweet ending that keeps the meal vibrant and lively.
-
Sesame Tofu Stir-Fry: Incorporate sesame-based tofu stir-fry with your meal for a heartier option that pairs well with the spring rolls.
Expert Tips for Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls
-
Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 356 °F before frying tofu to achieve that perfect golden crisp.
-
Rolling Technique: Don t overstuff your spring rolls! This prevents tearing the rice paper, making for a beautiful presentation.
-
Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If possible, prepare all components just before assembly to keep everything crisp.
-
Storage Ideas: Store individual components separately in airtight containers. Tofu lasts up to 3 days, while vegetables can be kept fresh for a week.
-
Customize Flavors: Experiment with different herbs or proteins like tempeh for unique flavor profiles in your Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can pre-chop vegetables (like carrots and cucumbers) and boil the vermicelli noodles up to 3 days in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The lemongrass tofu can also be fried and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays crispy. When you re ready to enjoy, simply assemble the spring rolls with the prepped ingredients by moistening rice paper sheets and rolling them tightly. This way, you can whip up a delicious, fresh meal with minimal effort, saving you time while still delivering restaurant-quality results!
How to Store and Freeze Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Fridge: Store assembled spring rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Place a damp paper towel inside to keep the rice paper from drying out.
Freezer: For freezing, wrap each spring roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, try pan-frying them on medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating, as it may turn the rice paper soggy.
Separate Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness; tofu lasts up to 3 days, while vegetables can stay crisp for about a week.
Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists!
-
Tempeh Twist: Substitute tofu with marinated tempeh for a nutty flavor that packs a protein punch.
-
Creamy Avocado: Add sliced avocado for a luscious and creamy texture that complements the freshness of the veggies.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños into your filling for a zesty heat that elevates the flavors in every bite.
-
Herbal Mix: Experiment with different herbs like Thai basil or cilantro for a vibrant flavor profile that transports you to Southeast Asia.
-
Colorful Additions: Layer in colorful bell peppers or purple cabbage for a visual feast that adds crunch and nutrition.
-
Rice Noodle Swap: Use soba noodles instead of vermicelli for a unique texture and additional nutrients in your rolls.
-
Nutty Accents: Include crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for a delightful nutty crunch that enhances each spring roll.
-
Fruit Fusion: Try adding thinly sliced fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet twist that brightens the overall taste.
Each variation offers a chance to explore new flavors while keeping that satisfying essence of the classic vegetarian spring roll!
Vegetarian Vietnamese Spring Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of tofu should I use for vegetarian spring rolls?
Absolutely! Using extra-firm tofu is best because it holds its shape when frying, providing a satisfying texture within your spring rolls. Firm tofu can work too, but it may break apart more easily. Be sure to press it to remove excess moisture before frying for the crispiest results.
How should I store leftover vegetarian spring rolls?
Great question! If you have assembled spring rolls leftover, place them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel inside to keep the rice paper from drying out. These can last in the fridge for about 2 days. If you need to maintain the crispness and freshness of the filling, I recommend storing the components separately instead.
Can I freeze vegetarian spring rolls?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each spring roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method can keep them fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight, and pan-fry on medium heat until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwave reheating for the best texture.
What if my spring rolls keep tearing while rolling?
Very common! If your rice paper tears, you might be overfilling them or not wetting them long enough. Try soaking the rice paper just until it s pliable around 5-10 seconds. Also, be gentle while rolling; practice makes perfect! If you do have a tear, you can always use a small piece of another rice paper to patch it from the inside.
Are these vegetarian spring rolls suitable for those with allergies?
Absolutely! These vegetarian Vietnamese spring rolls can be tailored for various dietary needs. Just be mindful of possible allergies to soy products if you re using soy sauce or vegan oyster sauce. You can opt for coconut aminos instead. For gluten-free options, ensure you re using tamari soy sauce and gluten-free vermicelli noodles. Always check your herbs and additional ingredients for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.



