Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls

Name: Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 rolls
Ingredients: 8 rice paper sheets; 12 cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup grated carrots; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup cucumber, julienned; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Water to thin

Highlighted under: Fit & Flavorful Recipes

I love making Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls during the warmer months. They are incredibly refreshing and perfect for a light meal or appetizer. The combination of fresh veggies, succulent shrimp, and creamy avocado wrapped in rice paper is not only delicious but also visually stunning. We often serve them with a zesty peanut dipping sauce, which adds an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a solo lunch, these rolls are quick to prepare and so satisfying!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:54:19.343Z

When I first tried making summer rolls, I was surprised at how simple yet rewarding they are. The key is to have all ingredients prepped before you start assembling—this makes the process flow seamlessly. Using fresh spices and herbs adds vibrant flavors that truly enhance the dish.

One of my favorite tips is to dip the rice paper in warm water just until it's pliable but not too soft. This allows for a perfect roll without breaking. The balance of crunchy vegetables against the tender shrimp and creamy avocado is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and refreshing—perfect for a summer day
Full of healthy ingredients that taste amazing
Customizable with your favorite fillings or dips

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The freshness of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls. Opt for firm, ripe avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed but do not feel mushy. For the shrimp, you can use shrimp that are already cooked and cleaned, ensuring they are plump and succulent. If you're feeling adventurous, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of lime juice and garlic for about 15 minutes before assembling your rolls to infuse an extra layer of flavor.

Herbs like cilantro and mint are essential in this recipe, providing a vibrant, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado. Be picky with your herbs; they should be bright green and fragrant, which indicates freshness and vitality. If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with basil for a different aromatic profile. Be mindful, though, that substituting may slightly alter the dish's overall taste.

Perfecting the Rolling Technique

Rolling the summer rolls can be tricky if you're not familiar with the rice paper. To prevent tears, ensure the rice paper is just pliable, which typically takes about 10 seconds in warm water. Lay it out flat, and do not overload your filling. Keep it neatly within the center, as this makes rolling easier and ensures a clean finish. If your rolls are coming apart, it might be a sign that you’ve filled them too generously, so try reducing the quantity next time.

I recommend practicing your rolling technique until you find the right tightness. The rolls should feel firm but not overly stretched. A well-rolled summer roll should hold its shape and be easy to dip without falling apart. Once rolled, laying the rolls seam-side down will help keep them secure until you're ready to serve.

Storage and Serving Tips

If you're planning to make these rolls ahead of time, it's best to store them in an airtight container. Place a damp paper towel between layers to keep the rice paper moist, helping to prevent them from drying out and sticking together. These rolls can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but for the best texture and flavor, it's advisable to consume them within 12 hours after preparation.

For serving, these summer rolls are wonderful on their own, but don't shy away from presenting them with additional accompaniments. You could include extra sliced vegetables or fresh herbs on a platter, encouraging guests to customize their rolls. Another option is to pair them with a small bowl of sriracha for a spicy kick alongside the peanut sauce, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy and zesty flavors.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

8 rice paper sheets
12 cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup cucumber, julienned

For the Dipping Sauce

1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Water to thin

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Rolls

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10 seconds or until it’s just pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface. Place 2-3 shrimp, avocado, lettuce, carrots, cilantro, mint, and cucumber along the center of the rice paper. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Make the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add lime juice to the dipping sauce or sprinkle some crushed peanuts over the top of the rolls before serving.

Gluten-Free Alternative

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, ensure that any soy sauce used is specifically labeled as gluten-free since traditional soy sauce contains wheat. Alternatively, you can substitute it with tamari, which is inherently gluten-free and has a similar flavor profile.

Also, when selecting rice paper, most are gluten-free; however, check the packaging to verify. This way, you can enjoy the delightful textures and flavors of these Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls without concerns regarding gluten.

Making it Vegetarian

To create a vegetarian version of these summer rolls, you can swap the shrimp for tofu. Choose firm tofu and marinate it in a soy sauce mixture with a hint of ginger for a few minutes before adding it to your rolls. The tofu will absorb the flavors and add a satisfying protein kick.

Additionally, you can bulk up the veggie fillings by adding ingredients like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and flavor. This not only keeps the rolls delicious and refreshing but also makes them a hearty option for plant-based diets.

Enhancing the Dipping Sauce

The peanut dipping sauce can be easily adapted. For a spicier version, consider adding a teaspoon of chili paste or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture, allowing you to control the heat to your liking.

Moreover, if you are looking for a creamier texture, you can mix in some coconut milk. This addition will mellow the flavors and create a richer dipping experience, perfectly complementing the fresh taste of the summer rolls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use crab, tofu, or even grilled chicken instead of shrimp, depending on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. They are best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, avocado, or even some sliced radish.