If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and fresh textures, you’ve got to try the Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe. These rolls bring together perfectly marinated salmon, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rice paper to create a light yet satisfying bite that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want a fun DIY dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes healthy eating feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to create a symphony of taste and texture. From the succulent salmon to the crunchy fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, every component plays an important role in making these spring rolls irresistible.
- Salmon (1 1/2 lbs): The star protein, marinated to infuse deep, savory flavors.
- Oyster sauce (2 tbsp): Adds a rich umami boost that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Sugar (1 1/2 tsp): Balances the savory notes for a perfect harmony.
- Ground black pepper (1/4 tsp): Provides a subtle warmth and spice.
- Ground ginger (1/4 tsp): Adds a gentle, aromatic zing.
- Fresh garlic or garlic powder (1 tbsp minced or 1 tsp powder): Delivers a punchy depth of flavor.
- Sesame oil (1 tbsp): Brings a toasty, nutty aroma that ties the marinade together.
- Vietnamese scallion oil (half recipe): A fragrant finishing touch that elevates the salmon.
- Roasted unsalted peanuts (1/4 cup): Adds crunch and richness for texture contrast.
- Fried shallots: Crispy topping for an extra burst of flavor.
- Medium rice noodles or thin noodle sheets (banh hoi): Soft, delicate noodles to wrap the fillings around.
- Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce: A creamy and slightly spicy accompaniment that enhances every bite.
- Round rice paper (1 package): Soft and pliable to hold everything together.
- Fresh vegetables, pickles, and herbs: Choose crisp lettuce, cucumber, and fragrant herbs like mint and cilantro to brighten every roll.
How to Make Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by giving your salmon a gentle rinse to remove any residual fishy smell, then pat it completely dry with paper towels. Run your fingers over the fish to pull out any pin bones—it makes the final eating experience so much more enjoyable! Depending on your air fryer size, trim the salmon into pieces that fit comfortably and set it aside for marinating.
Step 2: Marinate the Salmon
In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, salt, sugar, black pepper, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to create a flavorful marinade. Rub this marinade thoroughly over your salmon pieces, ensuring every bit gets coated. Let the salmon soak up these incredible flavors for at least 15 minutes, or if you have time, chill it overnight to deepen the taste.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper pulled up at the edges for easy lifting. Place the salmon inside, then cook at 375°F for 15 minutes—no preheating or flipping needed! Once the salmon is perfectly cooked and flaky, brush it with fragrant Vietnamese scallion oil and sprinkle roasted peanuts and fried shallots on top for a delightful crunch and aroma.
Step 4: Prepare Noodles and Vegetables
While the salmon is cooking, boil your vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Meanwhile, wash and dry your chosen vegetables and herbs thoroughly. Having everything ready makes assembling the rolls quick and hassle-free.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Place all your ingredients within easy reach. Soak a sheet of rice paper briefly in room temperature water until soft but not too floppy, then transfer it to a clean surface. Start by placing a piece of the beautiful, glazed salmon on the rice paper—this peek of salmon through the translucent paper looks stunning. Layer in noodles, fresh herbs, vegetables, and pickles, then roll from the bottom, folding in the sides as you go to keep everything snug and in place.
How to Serve Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate the presentation and the burst of textures, top your finished rolls with extra crushed roasted peanuts and crispy fried shallots. A drizzle of scallion oil or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or mint can add that final wow factor that guests love.
Side Dishes
These spring rolls pair perfectly with Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce that’s creamy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of spice. Serve alongside a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to add refreshing contrasts that complement the salmon’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, slice the spring rolls diagonally and fan them out on a colorful platter for a visually stunning appetizer. You can also serve them with a trio of dipping sauces—peanut, hoisin, and a spicy chili sauce—to satisfy all taste buds and keep things exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any spring rolls left over, store them in an airtight container lined with damp paper towels to help prevent the rice paper from drying out. Keep them refrigerated and try to consume within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and rice paper don’t hold up well to freezing. It’s better to prepare just enough for your meal or store individual components separately if you want to make it in advance.
Reheating
Since the spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, reheating isn’t ideal. However, if needed, gently warm the salmon pieces separately in an air fryer or oven to maintain their texture, then reassemble the rolls with fresh rice paper and vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon offers a rich and tender texture, you can substitute with other firm fish like trout or even shrimp if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What herbs work best in these spring rolls?
Traditional Vietnamese herbs like mint, cilantro, and Thai basil shine in these rolls, lending a fresh, aromatic touch. Feel free to experiment with chives or even dill for a unique twist.
Is it necessary to air fry the salmon?
Air frying is a quick and convenient method that keeps the salmon moist and flavorful. Alternatively, you can bake or roast the salmon in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
How long can I marinate the salmon?
Marinating for at least 15 minutes is essential to infuse flavor, but you can marinate the salmon overnight in the refrigerator for an even deeper, richer taste.
Can I prepare the peanut dipping sauce in advance?
Yes! The peanut dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe. It’s truly a delightful combination of tastes and textures that feels light, fresh, and satisfying all at once. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own, these spring rolls bring a little bit of sunshine to every bite. Give them a try soon—you won’t regret it!
Print
Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls with Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 21 spring rolls
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Vietnamese Salmon Spring Rolls (Cá Hồi Cuốn Bánh Tráng) are light and refreshing rolls featuring Asian-style marinated salmon wrapped in delicate rice paper with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and vermicelli noodles. These rolls are perfect for a DIY dinner, a summer meal, or as a healthy appetizer, combining savory air-fried salmon with crunchy peanuts and a flavorful Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Salmon and Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs salmon
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Vietnamese scallion oil (use half recipe)
- 1/4 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
- Fried shallots (hành phi)
Noodles and Wrapping
- 1 package medium rice noodles or thin noodle sheets (banh hoi)
- 1 package round rice paper
Vegetables and Herbs
- Vegetables such as lettuce and cucumber
- Pickles
- Fresh herbs (e.g., mint, cilantro, Thai basil)
Dipping Sauce
- Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce
- Optional: sriracha chili sauce for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Rinse the salmon thoroughly to remove any fishy odors and pat dry with paper towels. Feel with your hands to pull out any pin bones. Cut into smaller pieces if needed so they fit comfortably in the air fryer basket. Set aside.
- Marinate the salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, salt, sugar, ground black pepper, ground ginger, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Coat the salmon pieces evenly with this marinade and let them rest for at least 15 minutes, preferably overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Air fry the salmon: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper, ensuring excess sides for easy lifting after cooking. Arrange the salmon pieces in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes without preheating or flipping. Once cooked, remove salmon and brush with Vietnamese scallion oil. Garnish with roasted peanuts and fried shallots for texture and flavor.
- Prepare noodles and vegetables: Cook the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop cooking and remove starch. Wash and dry fresh herbs and vegetables thoroughly. Slice vegetables and prepare pickles as desired.
- Prepare the dipping sauce: Prepare Vietnamese peanut dipping sauce according to your preferred recipe or ready-made option. Optionally, add sriracha chili sauce for heat and sprinkle some roasted peanuts on top before serving.
- Assemble the spring rolls: Set all ingredients close to your workspace for efficient assembly. Quickly dip one rice paper sheet into room temperature water, making sure all sides are moistened uniformly, then lift and place onto a clean, flat surface. Place a piece of salmon first on the rice paper so it’s visible through the translucent wrapper, then add a small portion of noodles, vegetables, herbs, and pickles. Roll from the bottom tightly, tuck in sides, and finish rolling completely.
- Serve: Arrange the assembled spring rolls on a plate. Serve immediately with the prepared peanut dipping sauce on the side, garnished with sriracha and roasted peanuts if desired.
Notes
- For an oven alternative to air frying, bake or roast salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
- If you prefer, marinate the salmon overnight to allow flavors to develop more fully.
- Use fresh, soft rice papers for easier rolling to prevent tearing.
- Customize the fillings with your favorite vegetables and herbs according to availability and taste.
- Refrigerate assembled rolls immediately if not eating right away to keep the rice paper from drying out.
- The scallion oil adds an authentic Vietnamese aromatic finish; you can make it by gently heating oil with chopped scallions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Vietnamese