Giant Spring Rolls With Tofu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes.

• Fresh and healthy: Filled with raw veggies and lean protein.

• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand.

• Meal-prep friendly: Great for lunchboxes or grab-and-go meals.

• Naturally gluten-free and vegan.

• Perfect balance of textures: Crunchy veggies, soft tofu, chewy rice paper.

• Flavor-packed dipping sauce brings it all together.

• Fun to make and roll.

• A great alternative to sandwiches or wraps.

• Impressive and colorful for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large lettuce leaves
½ English cucumber
2 medium carrots (or pre-shredded carrots)
2 handfuls shredded red cabbage (pre-shredded)
7 oz extra-firm tofu
2 teaspoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
8 rice paper sheets
2 handfuls fresh cilantro (optional)
3 tablespoon peanut butter
3 tablespoon tamari (or gluten-free soy sauce)
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon maple syrup
¼ teaspoon ginger powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons water

Directions

1. Cook the tofu: Slice the tofu block lengthwise into 0.5-inch sticks. Pan-fry the tofu in sesame oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute per side until golden and crispy. Set aside.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Wash the lettuce leaves. Cut the cucumber and carrots into thin sticks or use a julienne peeler.

3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, tamari, lime juice, maple syrup, ginger powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add water to thin out the sauce until smooth and pourable.

4. Assemble the rolls: Dip each rice paper sheet in lukewarm water for about 15 seconds. Place two sheets overlapping on a damp surface to form a square.

5. Fill and roll: In the center, layer lettuce, cucumber, carrots, red cabbage, tofu, and cilantro. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly into a large spring roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 large servings and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick meal or light dinner.

Variations

• Swap tofu with grilled tempeh or cooked shrimp for a different protein.

• Use spinach or kale instead of lettuce.

• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.

• Spice it up with fresh chili or sriracha in the sauce.

• Try a hoisin-based dipping sauce instead of peanut.

• Use mango or apple slices for a sweet twist.

• Add vermicelli noodles for more filling rolls.

Storage/Reheating

Spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later:

• Storage: Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: These are meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature. No reheating is necessary. Avoid microwaving, as it will alter the texture.

FAQs

How do I keep rice paper from sticking?

Use a damp cutting board or kitchen towel when rolling, and avoid over-soaking the rice paper.

Can I make these spring rolls ahead of time?

Yes, make them up to 1 day ahead. Wrap tightly and refrigerate to keep them fresh.

Are these spring rolls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini as alternatives.

Can I air fry or bake the tofu instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Can I freeze spring rolls?

Freezing is not recommended as the rice paper becomes tough and chewy after thawing.

Can I add noodles inside the rolls?

Yes, cooked rice vermicelli noodles make a great addition and add extra texture.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can leave them out or use other herbs like mint or basil if available.

Can I make these rolls smaller?

Absolutely. Just use one rice paper sheet per roll and reduce the filling accordingly.

What should I serve with these spring rolls?

They pair well with miso soup, seaweed salad, or additional dipping sauces.

Conclusion

Giant Spring Rolls with Tofu are a nutritious, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a vibrant dinner, or a meal-prep-friendly option, these fresh spring rolls deliver every time. Customize them to your taste and enjoy a taste of freshness in every bite.