Food 
Exploring the Vibrant Ingredients for Vegan Rainbow Summer Rolls
With the sun lingering longer and the temperatures climbing, nothing hits the spot quite like the cool, crisp crunch of Rainbow Summer Rolls. Let’s picture this: a see-through wrap brimming with vibrant greens, oranges, and reds that almost resembles a mini rainbow you can eat!
In my kitchen, the color parade starts with thin strips of red cabbage, crisp orange carrots, and sunny yellow bell peppers. But these choices aren’t just for their pop of color—they bring a crunch that elevates the texture and are bursting with nutrients. Red cabbage packs a punch with vitamins C and K, while carrots are rich in beta-carotene, perfect for vision and skin health. Yellow bell peppers add sweetness and a dose of vitamins A and C.
For some luscious creaminess, I toss in some slices of avocado, and for a fresh herby kick, a sprinkle of mint or cilantro is a must. These rolls sit on a bed of rice paper wrappers and vermicelli noodles, both wonderfully light and satisfyingly vegan. They’re the perfect carriers for our beautiful bounty without adding any heaviness.
ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your Rainbow Summer Rolls
Though they may look like art, making these rolls is totally doable. Start by filling a wide, shallow dish with warm water to soak the rice paper wrappers. Just dip one wrapper at a time—about 20-30 seconds until it’s flexible but not super mushy.
Place the softened wrapper on a damp cutting board. Imagine its surface as a canvas. On the lower third, carefully begin constructing your masterpiece: lay down a handful of vermicelli noodles followed by your colorful lineup of cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and a couple of avocado slices.
For a real zesty flair, crown it with a few mint or cilantro leaves. It’s like tossing a few festive confetti on top!
Rolling time: fold the wrapper’s bottom edge over the bounty, tucking it in tightly to bundle up the fillings. Then, fold in the sides like you’re wrapping a present and roll it away from you until sealed. Use a damp cloth to cover the finished rolls so they stay moist as you continue with your rolling spree.
ADVERTISEMENT
Creating the Perfect Vegan Peanut Sauce
What’s a summer roll without a dunk? This creamy vegan peanut sauce is here to steal the spotlight. Kick things off with 1/4 cup (60g) of natural peanut butter—choose smooth for creaminess or crunchy for some bite. Stir in a tablespoon (15 ml) of tamari or soy sauce for depth, a squeeze of lime juice for tang, and a teaspoon (5 ml) of agave syrup for just the right touch of sweetness.
Mix in about 1/4 cup (60 ml) of warm water to reach the perfect, dippable consistency. Adjust to your taste—maybe a bit more lime for extra zip or a dash of chili flakes for a whisper of heat. Besides being a dip, this sauce can double as a zesty dressing for salads or veggies.
And there you have it—Rainbow Summer Rolls with Vegan Peanut Sauce, ready to turn any meal into a vibrant, flavor-packed celebration. Perfect for sharing on those balmy summer evenings, these rolls are sure to add color and vivacity to any gathering.
If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.
