Name: Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons minced fresh ginger; 2 medium cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon agave nectar; 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil; 1/2-1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz rice noodles; 1-1/2 cups shredded green or purple cabbage; 1 small cucumber, julienned; 2 small carrots, julienned; 1 medium sweet pepper, julienned; 1/4 cup firmly-packed minced cilantro; 1/4 cup firmly-packed minced mint; 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts; Additional cilantro and sesame seeds for topping

If you love the flavors of a classic Vietnamese spring roll but crave something a little more relaxed and ultra-refreshing, this Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is your new best friend. Imagine all the irresistible crunch, zippy herbs, and that craveable tangy-sweet heat—without ever rolling a thing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the Flavor, None of the Fuss: No need to roll or wrap—just toss and enjoy all the signature spring roll tastes in crunchy, colorful salad form.
A Rainbow on Your Plate: Crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and roasted peanuts create a beautiful medley of flavors and textures that are as stunning as they are satisfying.
30-Minute Wonder: The salad comes together fast, and the Spicy Ginger Dressing is so easy, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!
Perfect for Meal Prep, Picnics, or Potlucks: It’s sturdy, make-ahead friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser—even for those who are new to “salad for dinner.”

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing has a starring role, creating the perfect mix of fresh crunch, bold flavors, and creamy nuttiness. The best part? Everything is easy to find—and together they make magic.

Rice noodles: These silky, chewy noodles provide the perfect base and soak up the dressing beautifully.
Shredded green or purple cabbage: Adds gorgeous color and unbeatable crunch to each bite.
Cucumber, julienned: Brings cooling freshness to balance the spice.
Carrots, julienned: Lends natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Sweet pepper, julienned: Use red, yellow, or orange for extra crunch and a hint of sweet bite.
Cilantro & mint: These punchy herbs are classic in spring rolls and bring the salad to life—don’t skip them!
Roasted peanuts: Sprinkle on top for rich, toasty flavor and extra crunch.
Spicy Ginger Dressing: Made with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this zesty dressing is truly the flavor hero.
Sesame seeds & extra herbs (for garnish): Take this salad from “yum” to “WOW!” with the final flourish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! Whether you want to switch up the veggies or tailor it to dietary needs, there’s plenty of room for creativity.

Add Protein: Toss in shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or baked tofu for a heartier meal.
Go Fully Vegan: Swap out honey for agave in the dressing (already agave here!) and double-check your noodles are egg-free.
Mix Up the Veg: Try sliced snap peas, bean sprouts, radishes, or even thinly sliced lettuce in place of or in addition to the classic veggies.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the peanuts and use toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delicious crunch.

How to Make Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Step 1: Blend Up the Spicy Ginger Dressing

Start by popping the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave nectar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, and red pepper flakes into a food processor or blender. Blend until everything is silky-smooth, adjusting the red pepper flakes to match your heat preference. Season with salt and pepper, then pop the dressing into the fridge while you prepare the salad—it only gets better as the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prep the Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions—you want them tender but not mushy. As soon as they’re ready, rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking and keep them perfectly chewy. Let them drain fully before transferring to your salad bowl.

Step 3: Chop and Toss the Veggies & Herbs

While the noodles cool, quickly julienne your cabbage, cucumber, carrots, and sweet pepper. Toss these crunchy veggies with the cold noodles, then add a generous handful of fresh cilantro and mint. The herbs should be roughly chopped to keep things rustic and lively.

Step 4: Dress and Finish the Salad

When you’re ready to eat, drizzle that gorgeous Spicy Ginger Dressing all over the salad and toss until every bite is coated. Scatter on the roasted peanuts, extra herbs, and sesame seeds—don’t skimp! Serve straight away and watch it disappear.

Pro Tips for Making Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Herb Power: Use both cilantro and mint for maximum aroma—don’t be shy, the freshness lifts the whole salad!
Cold Noodles, Happy Salad: Make sure your noodles are thoroughly chilled and fully drained so they don’t become gummy when tossed with veggies and dressing.
Customize the Heat: Start with a small amount of red pepper flakes in the Spicy Ginger Dressing, then taste and add more if you’re craving extra kick.
Crunch is Key: Add the peanuts and sesame seeds just before serving so they stay deliciously crunchy.

How to Serve Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

Garnishes

This salad is all about contrasts, so go wild with toppings! Extra cilantro, mint, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a handful of roasted peanuts make every forkful dynamic and gorgeous. For even more pizazz, try a swirl of Sriracha or a scatter of thinly sliced chili.

Side Dishes

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing pairs beautifully with sesame edamame, miso soup, or crispy tofu bites. For heartier appetites, grill up some chicken or shrimp on the side—anything with a light Asian-inspired flavor works a charm.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party twist, serve the salad in lettuce cups or rice paper boats (no rolling, just piling!). Layer it in jars for take-along lunches or pile it high on a platter at your next barbecue for a show-stopping centerpiece. It’s as flexible as you are!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad will keep fresh for up to two days in the fridge. Store the Spicy Ginger Dressing and salad separately if possible, and toss together just before eating to keep everything crisp.

Freezing

This salad is all about fresh flavors and crunchy veggies, so freezing isn’t recommended. The noodles and dressing can become watery or lose their lovely texture after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed! This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, straight from the fridge or after just a few minutes at room temp.

FAQs

Can I make Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all the veggies and the Spicy Ginger Dressing a day in advance. For the freshest result, store the salad and dressing separately and toss them together right before serving.
What protein can I add to this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, baked tofu, or even poached salmon all work beautifully. Just slice them thinly and pile on top for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?

With gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and rice noodles, this Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your ingredients to be sure.
How spicy is the Spicy Ginger Dressing?

You’re in control! Start with less red pepper flakes for a mild warmth, or ramp it up for fiery spice—either way, you’ll get zesty, gingery flavor that’s easy to tailor to your taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing a try—whether you need a fast lunch, a fresh dinner idea, or a colorful dish to impress your friends. Each bite is bursting with crunch, zest, and just the right touch of heat. Enjoy and make it yours!

Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 102 reviews

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Tossing
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the essence of spring rolls in a vibrant salad form. The zesty ginger dressing adds a delicious kick to the fresh vegetables and rice noodles, making it a perfect light meal or side dish.

Instructions

Spicy Ginger Dressing – In a food processor or blender, combine ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave, vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate.
Spring Roll Salad – Cook rice noodles, rinse with cold water, then transfer to a large bowl. Add cabbage, cucumber, carrots, pepper, cilantro, and mint. When ready to serve, drizzle with dressing and toss well. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with peanuts, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Enjoy!