Shrimp Mango Spring Rolls

Shrimp and Mango Spring Rolls are a must any time I want a dish that feels as bright and lively as summer itself. They balance crisp vegetables and juicy fruit with plump shrimp and fresh herbs all bundled in a soft rice wrapper for a hand-held bite guests always rave about. This is the appetizer I reach for at picnics or when I am craving something fresh but satisfying.

I discovered these one hot afternoon when I raided my fridge for leftovers and ended up wrapping anything crunchy with shrimp and mango. From then, anytime I spot juicy ripe mangoes, I know spring rolls will follow for our family dinner.

Ingredients

• Medium shrimp: Fresh and sweet shrimp bring mild ocean flavor and a bit of springy protein Choose ones with clear flesh and no off smell for best results
• Ripe mango: A sweet juicy mango is essential Look for fruit with a little give at the stem
• Carrot and cucumber: Both add crispness Pick firm produce without soft spots for best texture
• Red bell pepper: Bright color and crunch go far here Choose deep red glossy peppers
• Fresh cilantro mint and basil: These herbs pack the signature fragrant punch Pick leaves free from wilting and rinse thoroughly to avoid grit
• Lettuce: Butter or green leaf adds fresh crunch Opt for crisp head lettuce that feels heavy for size
• Rice paper wrappers: Use the round variety with minimal ingredients Rice and water should be all that is listed
• Vermicelli rice noodles: Light and slippery these make rolls more satisfying Choose thin noodles and check for freshness not brittle
• Hoisin sauce: Savory sweet base for dipping
• Peanut butter: Creamy texture deep nutty flavor Smooth peanut butter works best for sauces
• Lime juice: Zippy and fresh Optional but it brightens all the flavors Buy limes that feel heavy and give a touch under pressure
• Soy sauce: Brings salt Make sure to use a fresh bottle for best taste
• Sriracha: Optional heat adds depth Include to taste
• Chopped roasted peanuts: For crunch and nutty finish opt for fresh roasted peanuts

Instructions

Prepare the Noodles:

Cook vermicelli rice noodles according to package instructions This usually means boiling for a few minutes then draining and rinsing with cold water to prevent sticking Set aside while you prep everything else

Poach the Shrimp:

Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring to a gentle boil Salt the water well then add peeled and deveined shrimp Cook for two to three minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque Immediately drain and run under cold water to halt cooking Slice each shrimp in half lengthwise for a flat glossy surface

Prep the Produce and Herbs:

Wash peel and cut all vegetables and mango Cut the carrot and cucumber into fine julienne strips slice the red pepper and mango thinly and wash all herbs and lettuce Dry everything gently with a towel so wrappers are not soggy

Soften the Rice Paper:

Fill a shallow dish or pie plate with warm water Working with one wrapper at a time slip it into the water for about five seconds It should soften but not fall apart Remove and lay flat on a clean damp kitchen towel to prevent sticking

Fill and Roll:

Arrange a piece of lettuce and small heap of cooked noodles on the lower third of the sheet Layer on carrot cucumber bell pepper mango and generous sprigs of fresh herbs Set four shrimp halves pink side down on top This coordinates their bright color with the visible top of the finished roll

Wrap the Rolls:

Carefully pull the bottom edge over the fillings then fold in each side snugly Roll tightly away from you until sealed and smooth Set aside seam side down Repeat until all ingredients are used

Mix the Dipping Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl whisk hoisin sauce peanut butter water lime juice soy sauce and sriracha until glossy and fully combined Scatter chopped peanuts on top for crunch

Serve:

Place the rolls on a platter Slice in half if desired Serve with dipping sauce and garnish with extra herbs or lime wedges

Save

The mango is always my favorite ingredient in these rolls I have vivid memories of making the first batch when my oldest insisted on sampling the mango and then stealing all the extra slices before I could even finish rolling Half the joy was seeing sticky fingers and wide grins at the table Those kinds of memories turn cooking from routine into celebration

Storage Tips

To keep rolls fresh wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to one day If the wrappers become a little firm just brush lightly with damp hands before serving Keep dipping sauce separate until ready to eat

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version crispy tofu strips or extra avocado and vegetables are great swaps Cooked chicken can be used instead of shrimp Gluten free tamari works in place of soy sauce if needed

Serving Suggestions

Arrange on a platter with extra fresh herbs and wedges of lime for good measure Pair these with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a perfect warm weather snack

Cultural Context

These rolls take cues from traditional Vietnamese gỏi cuốn which are common street snacks filled with local herbs and proteins Each family may have their own favorite combination and dipping sauce offering a window into personal tastes and seasonal ingredients

Save

Serve these spring rolls as your next refreshing appetizer and there will not be a single one left behind The combination of shrimp mango and fresh herbs makes every bite a burst of summer

Kitchen Guide

→ How do you keep rice paper pliable?

Dip the rice paper quickly in warm water, then place on a damp kitchen towel for easy rolling without tearing.

→ Can I substitute shrimp for another protein?

Yes, try tofu, chicken, or extra vegetables for a vegetarian or alternative option.

→ What's the best way to slice mango for rolls?

Peel and use a sharp knife or mandoline to make thin, uniform slices that tuck neatly into each roll.

→ Are spring rolls gluten-free?

Typically yes, but always check rice paper wrappers and sauces for hidden gluten ingredients.

→ What herbs add freshness to the rolls?

Cilantro, mint, and basil bring vibrant aroma and taste to each bite.

→ Which dipping sauce works best?

A blend of hoisin, peanut butter, lime juice, and soy sauce creates a creamy and tangy complement.