Spring Rolls!

     Although it isn't springtime, spring rolls are still incredibly fun and easy to make! They are perfect for an appetizer, snack, or as your main dish (depending on how hungry you are). Everyone I've taught how to make these little delights have loved them and have already made them again on their own- yay!! They are filled with nutritious, delicious, & colorful veggies! And are allergy-friendly (gluten, dairy, & soy free).

     Now push up those sleeves and get to rollin'! You won't want to stop! :-) You may also include marinated tofu (a soy product) to your roll as well, but this recipe simply calls for fresh vegetables & rice noodles. Don't be surprised though, these little guys are quite satisfying! Spring roll wrappers and rice noodles may be found in most Asian sections of the grocery store.

SPRING ROLLS

*Yield: about 20 rolls*

Ingredients:

1/2 pkg. spring roll wrappers

1 pkg. rice noodles, prepared according to package

2 large carrots cut into matchsticks

1 red bell pepper, cut into matchsticks

1 cucumber, cut into matchsticks

1 avocado, thinly sliced
1 bunch green scallions, sliced in 2 inch strips

1 handful fresh basil and/or mint leaves

Directions:

Fill a large bowl with water. One at a time, place spring roll wrapper into the bowl with filtered water for 25 seconds.  Transfer wet wrapper to cutting board or work station.  Place a small handful of rice noodles in center of roll, top with 1-2   matchstick carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, a slice of avocado, a piece of scallion, and basil or mint leaves.

To roll, start from the bottom and wrap rice paper over all ingredients, next pull in the sides and continue wrapping to the end. 

Serve with a simple dollop of Dijon or honey mustard, or with the following peanut dipping sauce recipe.

Peanut Dipping Sauce 

(Recipe from The Vegan Table by Collen Patrick-Goudreau)

*Yield: 1 cup

½ cup organic peanut butter
¼ cup water
2-3 Tbsp shoyu or tamari soy sauce
2 Tbsp lime juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp minced ginger

Directions:
Blend or stir all ingredients together until combined.
May need to adjust flavorings or water to reach desired consistency.

May they put a spring in your step...enjoy! ;-)