When the summer sun shines brightly and the fruits are ripe for picking, there’s nothing quite like the crisp freshness of homemade avocado summer rolls. These delightful bites are a celebration of vibrant colors and textures, where creamy avocado meets crunchy vegetables—all wrapped in delicate rice paper. On a particularly warm afternoon, I decided to whip up something light yet satisfying, and these rolls turned out to be a hit.
What truly sets them apart is the luscious coconut basil sauce that elevates each bite with its rich and herbaceous flavor. It’s the perfect dip to complement the sweet notes of succulent mango or juicy peaches nestled beside savory tofu and a medley of fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a light lunch, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these avocado summer rolls deliver refreshingly delicious results that are as healthy as they are satisfying. Join me in creating this culinary treasure that will surely impress—and delight—everyone at your table.
Why are Avocado Summer Rolls so irresistible?
Freshness, these avocado summer rolls are packed with vibrant veggies and creamy avocado, creating a light, satisfying dish perfect for warm days. Easy to make, this recipe requires minimal skills yet offers impressive results—ideal for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Healthy delight, with gluten-free and vegan ingredients, these rolls cater to diverse diets without sacrificing taste. Crowd-pleaser, serve them at your next gathering, and watch them disappear! For an extra kick, consider pairing them with a tasty dipping sauce to elevate the flavor.
Avocado Summer Rolls Ingredients
These avocado summer rolls are a delightful twist on a classic!
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For the Sauce
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Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Gives the sauce its rich creaminess; a must-have for that indulgent flavor.
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Fresh Basil – Imparts a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the entire dish; use Thai basil for extra flair.
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Cashew Butter – Adds depth and creaminess; swap for almond butter if nut allergies are a concern.
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Lime Juice – Provides acidity to balance flavors; fresh-squeezed is best for a zesty punch.
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Jalapeño – Adds a hint of heat; adjust quantity based on your spice tolerance!
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Garlic – Brings aromatic warmth; a small clove packs a lot of flavor.
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Ginger – Enhances the sauce with a touch of freshness; use fresh for the best taste.
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Salt – Enhances all flavors; season to taste for the perfect blend.
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For the Rolls
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Rice Wrappers (6 pieces, 28cm) – Encloses all fillings in a chewy wrap; larger sizes are easier to handle.
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Cooked Rice Noodles (4 oz) – Adds substance; swap for quinoa to keep it gluten-free.
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Extra-Firm Tofu (4 oz) – Heartiness and protein source; can be baked for extra texture.
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Ripe Avocado (1) – Creamy and full of healthy fats; a perfect base for these rolls.
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Ripe Peaches or Mango (2 peaches or 1 mango) – Fresh sweetness that complements savory flavors; use seasonal fruits for best results.
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Watermelon Radish (½, thinly sliced, optional) – Provides a crunch and beautiful color; regular radish is a great substitute.
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Fresh Herbs (basil, Thai basil, mint) – Adds freshness; mix and match based on what you have.
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Sesame Seeds (pinches) – Optional garnish for an extra nutty touch and crunch.
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Tamari or Sriracha – Optional for a spicy or salty dipping option; perfect for those who like a kick!
With these fresh ingredients assembled, your homemade avocado summer rolls are just a roll away from being served! Enjoy every delicious bite dipped in the creamy coconut basil sauce for an explosion of flavor.
How to Make Avocado Summer Rolls
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Blend Sauce: In a food processor, combine the coconut milk, fresh basil, cashew butter, lime juice, jalapeño, garlic, ginger, and salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as desired for a rich, creamy dip.
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Soak Wrappers: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for about 7 seconds until it softens. Allow any excess water to drip off before laying it on a damp towel to prevent sticking.
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Fill Rolls: In the center of the softened wrapper, layer a small amount of cooked rice noodles, sliced tofu, half of the avocado, diced peaches or mango, optional radish, and a handful of fresh herbs for extra flavor and color.
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Wrap Tightly: Begin by folding the bottom edge over the filling. Tuck in the sides and roll tightly, making sure the filling is secure. Repeat with remaining wrappers and ingredients.
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Serve Fresh: Arrange the summer rolls on a serving platter and accompany with the luscious Basil Coconut Sauce or optional tamari and sriracha for extra flavor.
Optional: Garnish rolls with sesame seeds for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Avocado Summer Rolls Variations
Dive into a world of creativity by personalizing your avocado summer rolls with these exciting twists!
- Fruit Swap: Replace ripe peaches or mango with juicy strawberries or kiwi for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Add crushed peanuts or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor in every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Mix diced jalapeños into your filling for added heat that brings a delightful zing to the rolls. You can customize the spice level based on your preference!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh cilantro or dill in addition to basil for a bursting herb flavor; the unique combination will surprise your taste buds.
- Vegan Protein Boost: Substitute tofu with marinated tempeh for a nutty flavor and added protein that complements the fresh veggies beautifully.
- Zesty Lime: Squeeze extra lime juice over the filling just before wrapping for a bright and zesty pop that elevates the dish.
- Savory Layer: Incorporate shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for an added crunch and vibrant color that makes your rolls look even more appealing.
- Cheesy Delight: For a creamy twist, add a sprinkle of vegan cheese shreds inside your rolls that will melt slightly when wrapped warm—a gorgeous surprise!
Expert Tips for Avocado Summer Rolls
- Wrapper Soaking Time: Keep an eye on the rice paper; soaking too long can make it too fragile to handle. Aim for about 7 seconds!
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe avocados and seasonal fruits to ensure maximum flavor. Freshness is key to delightful avocado summer rolls.
- Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to fill the rolls generously, but less is more. Overstuffing can lead to tearing and spills.
- Keep It Fresh: Serve the rolls immediately after making for the best texture. If preparing in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to avoid drying out.
- Dipping Sauce Consistency: If your coconut basil sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to achieve a smooth, easy-to-dip consistency.
What to Serve with Avocado Summer Rolls?
These refreshing avocado summer rolls are the perfect centerpiece for a light meal or gathering, complemented beautifully by a variety of delicious sides and drinks.
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Coconut Gazpacho:
This chilled soup brings a tropical flair, with its refreshing flavors highlighting the creamy elements of the rolls. -
Cucumber Salad:
Crisp cucumbers tossed with a tangy dressing add a delightful crunch, balancing the rich texture of the avocado. -
Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce:
For a nutty kick, this sauce pairs perfectly with the rolls, offering you an exciting alternative to the classic coconut basil sauce. -
Mango Salsa:
A fresh, fruit-infused salsa packs sweetness and zest, enhancing the fruity notes in your summer rolls. -
Herbed Quinoa Salad:
This protein-packed salad introduces fluffy grains and herbs, maintaining the freshness while providing satisfying substance. -
Watermelon Mint Cooler:
A revitalizing beverage combining sweet watermelon and mint; it’s a refreshing marriage to your vibrant rolls. -
Lemon Sorbet:
End your meal on a light note—this delicate dessert cleanses the palate after the flavorful summer rolls.
How to Store and Freeze Avocado Summer Rolls
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; summer rolls are not suited for room temperature storage as they may become soggy.
- Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezer: Not recommended to freeze summer rolls as rice wrappers can become overly soft and lose texture upon thawing.
- Reheating: These rolls are best served cold or at room temperature. If you want to warm them slightly, do so in a pan over low heat for a couple of minutes, but note that they will lose their fresh vibe.
Make Ahead Options
These Avocado Summer Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the creamy coconut basil sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container—this keeps the flavors melding beautifully. Additionally, you can slice the tofu and fruits up to 24 hours ahead; just store them separately in the fridge to prevent browning. To assemble the rolls, simply soak your rice paper wrappers right before serving, fill them with your prepped ingredients, and wrap tightly. This ensures the rolls stay fresh and crispy, giving you that delightful texture and taste with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Avocado Summer Rolls with Creamy Coconut Basil Sauce Recipe FAQs
What kind of avocados should I use?
Absolutely! Use ripe avocados that are slightly firm to the touch but yield gently when pressed. The best avocados will have a smooth skin without dark spots or blemishes. This will ensure a creamy texture that complements the other fresh ingredients beautifully.
How do I store leftover summer rolls?
Very important! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To prevent them from sticking together, separate the rolls with parchment paper. If you notice they’re getting too soft, enjoy them right away instead of waiting!
Can I freeze avocado summer rolls?
Not recommended! Summer rolls don’t freeze well because the rice wrappers can become gummy and lose their appealing texture. Instead, I suggest preparing just enough for your gathering or enjoying them fresh. They’re best consumed the same day for maximum flavor and texture.
What should I do if my rice paper wrappers are too fragile?
No worries! If you find that the wrappers are tearing, it might be because they’re soaked for too long. Aim for about 7 seconds in warm water. If they’re still too fragile once wrapped, you can place the rolls in a damp paper towel before storing, which can help maintain moisture while you enjoy them.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! You can easily adapt the recipe to be nut-free by substituting the cashew butter in the creamy coconut basil sauce with sunflower seed butter or tahini. Both options maintain the creamy texture while ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delightful rolls!
How long can the dipping sauce be stored?
You can prepare the delicious basil coconut sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. Just give it a good stir or re-blend it if needed before serving to get that creamy texture back!
Avocado Summer Rolls with Creamy Coconut Basil Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, combine the coconut milk, fresh basil, cashew butter, lime juice, jalapeño, garlic, ginger, and salt. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as desired.
- Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper for about 7 seconds until it softens. Allow any excess water to drip off before laying it on a damp towel.
- In the center of the softened wrapper, layer a small amount of cooked rice noodles, sliced tofu, half of the avocado, diced peaches or mango, optional radish, and a handful of fresh herbs.
- Begin by folding the bottom edge over the filling. Tuck in the sides and roll tightly.
- Arrange the summer rolls on a serving platter and accompany with the coconut basil sauce or optional tamari and sriracha.