Fresh Summer Rolls: Endless Filling Ideas for Every Taste

Looking for a light, refreshing meal that's quick to prepare? Summer rolls are a colorful, versatile option that can be filled with just about anything you like, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a fun family activity in the kitchen.

Originally from Vietnam, summer rolls (sometimes called fresh spring rolls) are made with delicate rice paper instead of pastry, so there's no frying involved. They're typically filled with crisp vegetables and served with a flavorful dipping sauce, but the possibilities are almost endless.

Filling Ideas

One of the best things about summer rolls is how easy they are to customize. Here are a few delicious combinations to try:

• Classic: Egg, tuna, and pickles
• Meat: Pastrami strips with lettuce and tomato
• Dairy: Soft cheese with fresh vegetables
• Asian Style: Stir-fried vegetables with soy sauce and halloumi cheese, or tofu for a pareve option
• Sabich Inspired: Hummus, roasted eggplant, hard-boiled egg, pickles, and a sprinkle of sumac
• Smoked Salmon: Smoked salmon with cream cheese, or dairy-free cream cheese for a pareve version
• Crunchy Veggie: Green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and a little mayonnaise
• Sweet Twist: Apples, pineapple, and walnuts for a Waldorf-inspired filling

And that's only the beginning. Mix and match ingredients to create your own favorite combinations.

How to Make Summer Rolls

Making summer rolls couldn't be easier.

Start by preparing your filling.

Fill a wide, shallow bowl with room-temperature water. Dip one sheet of rice paper into the water for about 20 to 30 seconds, just until it becomes soft and flexible.

Be careful not to leave it in the water for too long, or it may become too delicate to work with. If you remove it too soon, it will still be stiff and difficult to roll.

Lay the softened rice paper on a clean work surface.

Place your filling in the center, fold the sides inward, then roll it up tightly, just as you would a burrito.

Arrange the finished rolls on a serving platter.

That's it!

Serving Suggestions

Summer rolls are delicious on their own, but they're even better served with a dipping sauce such as:

• Peanut sauce
• Sweet chili sauce
• Soy sauce with a splash of sesame oil
• Teriyaki sauce
• Homemade tahini

Their fresh flavors and endless filling possibilities make them a wonderful meal for warm weather, light lunches, picnics, or even entertaining guests.