Easy Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls Bursting with Fresh Flavor

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something truly refreshing about Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls—the crispness of fresh herbs, the tender flaked fish, and the vibrant crunch of garden vegetables all wrapped in delicate rice paper. After months of relying on takeout and fast food, I found myself craving a meal that feels light yet bursting with flavor. These spring rolls came to the rescue, offering a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and endless versatility. Whether served as a quick lunch or an impressive appetizer when guests arrive, they transform simple, fresh produce into a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Let me take you through this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that elevates homemade freshness to a whole new level.

Why choose Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls?

Freshness guaranteed: crisp veggies and herbs create a vibrant bite. Light yet satisfying: tender fish adds protein without heaviness. Quick prep: minimal cooking means you’re in and out of the kitchen fast. Versatile crowd-pleaser: perfect for lunches, snacks, or impressive appetizers. Healthy indulgence: guilt-free flavor packed with nutrients and crunch. Endless customization: swap ingredients to suit your taste or pantry staples.

Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls Ingredients

For the Filling

Fresh white fish fillets – choose mild-flavored fish like cod or tilapia for tender, flaky protein in your Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls.
Carrots – shredded to add a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
Cucumber – thinly sliced for refreshing crispness that balances the fish.
Fresh mint leaves – bring bright, aromatic notes that elevate each bite.
Fresh cilantro – adds a zesty herbal punch to brighten flavors.
Rice vermicelli noodles – softened and tangled for an authentic, delicate texture.

For Wrapping

Rice paper sheets – softened briefly in warm water to wrap all ingredients in a tender, translucent bundle.

For Dipping Sauce

Hoisin sauce – thick and sweet, perfect as a base for dipping.
Peanut butter – adds creamy richness and a subtle nutty flavor.
Lime juice – cuts through sweetness with a fresh citrus zing.
Crushed peanuts – sprinkle on top for satisfying crunch and an extra layer of texture.

How to Make Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls

For the Filling:
Poach fish: Place fish fillets in gently simmering water over medium heat, cook 5–7 minutes until opaque and flaky, then transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.
Shred veggies: Toss shredded carrots, thinly sliced cucumber, fresh mint, and cilantro in a bowl for a vibrant, crunchy mixture bursting with color and aromatic notes.
Soften noodles: Submerge rice vermicelli in warm water for 3–4 minutes, then drain and gently fluff with a fork until delicate, springy strands ready for rolling.
For Wrapping:
Prep rice paper: Dip one rice paper sheet into warm water for about 5 seconds, lay it flat on a damp towel until translucent and pliable.
Assemble rolls: Arrange a small handful of noodles, fish, and veggie mix near the sheet’s edge, fold sides inward, then roll upward tightly to seal.
For the Dipping Sauce:
Whisk sauce: In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, creamy peanut butter, and fresh lime juice, stir until smooth, glossy, and perfectly balanced.

Optional: Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for an extra crunchy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling—poached fish, shredded carrots, cucumber, mint, cilantro, and softened rice vermicelli—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply keep them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, soak the rice paper sheets in warm water for about 5 seconds and roll them up with your prepped ingredients. This ensures they’re just as delicious and vibrant as if you made them fresh on the spot, allowing you to enjoy the delightful taste of homemade spring rolls at your convenience.

What to Serve with Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls?

These vibrant spring rolls are perfect for creating a meal that’s not just fresh but also bursting with flavor and variety.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and texture contrast beautifully with the savory spring rolls, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing complements the freshness of the rolls. The zesty tang enhances the meal’s overall flavor profile.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad provides a crisp contrast that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the spring rolls while cooling the palate.
Coconut Rice: The creamy richness of coconut rice brings a touch of indulgence to the table, balancing the vibrant, herbaceous flavors of the spring rolls.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A mix of juicy fruits like pineapple, mango, and watermelon can cleanse the palate, providing a sweet finish that complements the savory elements of your spring rolls beautifully.
Iced Green Tea: A refreshing, lightly sweetened iced green tea quenches thirst and enhances the freshness of your meal. This drink’s subtle earthiness rounds out the flavors of the fish and vegetables.
Mango Sticky Rice: The sweetness and creaminess of sticky rice topped with ripe mango pairs wonderfully with the spring rolls, creating a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls

Fridge: Keep wrapped spring rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Place a damp paper towel inside to maintain freshness and prevent drying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unwrapped spring rolls on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. For a quick warm-up, briefly steam them or lightly pan-fry for a crispy finish.

Serving: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful treat that retains its fresh flavors even after storage.

Variations & Substitutions for Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your own unique take on these delightful spring rolls!

Protein Swap: Substitute poached fish with shrimp, tofu, or grilled chicken for a different flavor profile. Each option brings its own charm; shrimp adds a touch of sweetness, while tofu creates a satisfying, plant-based delight.
Herb Mix: Use basil or parsley instead of mint and cilantro for an entirely new herbaceous note. This twist not only changes the aroma but also adds a lovely freshness that can complement the filling beautifully.
Add Crunch: Toss in some shredded cabbage or sliced bell peppers for an extra layer of crunch and texture. The additional vegetables not only boost the nutrition but also make each bite more exciting and colorful.
Spice it Up: For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick. This lively addition transforms your spring rolls into a zesty flavor fiesta!
Noodle Variety: Swap rice vermicelli for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles to change the dish’s base. This simple swap caters to dietary needs while maintaining a deliciously comforting feel.
Sweeteners: Replace hoisin sauce with sweet chili sauce for a different flavor along with a hint of heat. This variation introduces a lovely sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the fresh ingredients.
Nut-Free Alternative: For a nut-free dipping sauce, combine soy sauce with sesame oil and a touch of lime for a tasty alternative. This keeps things flavorful while avoiding allergens.

Embrace the creativity and customize these spring rolls to suit your taste and pantry!

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls

Handle rice paper gently: Soften each sheet just until pliable, about 5 seconds in warm water, to prevent tearing while wrapping your spring rolls perfectly.
Keep ingredients dry: Thoroughly drain and pat dry your fish and vegetables to avoid soggy rolls and maintain a fresh, crisp texture.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh mint and cilantro bring vibrant aroma and flavor—don’t substitute dried herbs, as they lack the bright punch essential in Vietnamese fish and vegetable spring rolls.
Don’t overfill rolls: Use moderate amounts of filling to wrap tight, neat rolls that hold together well and are easy to eat without falling apart.
Customize dipping sauce: Adjust lime juice and peanut butter quantities for your preferred balance of tang and creaminess in the dipping sauce, making your rolls irresistibly flavorful.

Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I know if the fish fillets are fresh and suitable for spring rolls?
Look for fillets that are firm to the touch with a clean, mild scent—avoid any fish that smells overly fishy or has dark spots all over. Fresh white fish like cod or tilapia should have a translucent, moist appearance before cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls?
Store your spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them from drying out, place a damp paper towel inside the container. This little trick keeps the rice paper soft and the veggies crisp.

Can I freeze these spring rolls, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze unwrapped spring rolls on a baking sheet for 1 to 2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then steam briefly or pan-fry lightly for that fresh texture and flavor.

What if my rice paper keeps tearing when I wrap the rolls?
This happens if the rice paper is too dry or soaked too long. Dip each sheet in warm water for only about 5 seconds until just pliable, then lay it on a damp towel to prevent sticking. Handle gently and avoid overfilling to keep your rolls intact and neat.

Are Vietnamese Fish and Vegetable Spring Rolls safe for pets or people with allergies?
While fish and fresh veggies are generally healthy, be cautious if your pet has seafood allergies. Also, some dipping sauce ingredients like peanuts pose allergy risks—always check ingredients for any dietary restrictions before serving or sharing.