What to Serve with Spring Rolls (20+ Side Dishes) –Spring rolls, with their crisp wrappers and delectable fillings, are a beloved dish enjoyed across the globe.
But what completes a spring roll feast? The answer lies in the array of delectable side dishes that accompany them.
Whether hosting a gathering or craving a well-rounded meal, our guide covers you. Explore a mouthwatering collection of over 20 side dishes that perfectly complement spring rolls, from refreshing salads to savory sauces and everything in between.
Elevate your dining experience and discover the ideal accompaniments to make your spring roll feast unforgettable.
How To Choose A Side For Spring Rolls
Choosing the perfect side dishes to accompany spring rolls can elevate your dining experience and create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. When selecting sides, consider the following factors to ensure a well-rounded meal:
- Contrasting Textures: Spring rolls are typically crunchy on the outside and filled with tender ingredients. Complement this texture by choosing sides that offer contrast. Crisp salads, pickled vegetables, or even crispy wonton strips can satisfy the crunch.
- Flavor Balance: Spring rolls often feature a delicate combination of flavors, from the savory filling to the dipping sauce. Your side dishes should harmonize with these flavors. Light and fresh sides like cucumber salad or a citrusy slaw can enhance the overall taste.
- Dipping Sauces: Consider the dipping sauces you will serve with the spring rolls. Different sauces pair well with specific sides. For instance, sweet chili sauce may complement a cucumber salad, while peanut sauce goes beautifully with a cold noodle salad.
- Cultural Fusion: Get creative by exploring side dishes from various cuisines that meld beautifully with spring rolls. Think about Thai papaya salad, Japanese edamame, or Vietnamese vermicelli noodles. Mixing and matching cultural influences can lead to delightful flavor combinations.
- Nutritional Balance: Ensure a balanced meal by incorporating sides that offer nutritional value. Include options with vegetables, proteins, and healthy grains to create a wholesome dining experience.
- Personal Preferences: Lastly, consider your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer vegetarian sides, gluten-free options, or spicy accompaniments, tailor your choices to suit your taste and dietary needs.
With these considerations in mind, you can curate a selection of side dishes that enhance the enjoyment of your spring rolls, making every bite a delightful experience.
Whether you choose traditional favorites or explore new and exciting flavors, your choice of sides can transform a simple meal into a culinary adventure.
What to Serve with Spring Rolls (20+ Side Dishes)
Vietnamese Noodle Salad (Bun Cha Gio):
This vibrant and refreshing salad features vermicelli rice noodles, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and often grilled shrimp or chicken. Tossed in a zesty fish sauce-based dressing contrasts spring rolls’ crispy texture. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a classic companion to Vietnamese spring rolls.
Som Tum is a Thai green papaya salad that’s both sweet and spicy. Shredded green papaya is mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, chili peppers, tomatoes, and crushed peanuts. The sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors provide an exciting contrast to the mild spring rolls.
Cucumber Salad:
A simple cucumber salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a rice vinegar dressing offers a crisp and refreshing side to balance the richness of spring rolls. For added flavor, you can customize it with ingredients like sesame seeds or fresh herbs.
Air Fryer Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce:
Serving fresh spring rolls alongside fried ones creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Fresh spring rolls are typically filled with rice vermicelli, herbs, shrimp, or tofu and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce that perfectly complements the crispy fried rolls.
Instant Pot Thai Coconut Soup (Tom Kha Gai):
Tom Kha Gai is a rich and aromatic Thai coconut soup. It features a flavorful broth made with coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and chicken or mushrooms—the soup’s creamy and slightly spicy nature pairs wonderfully with the crispness of spring rolls.
Instant Pot Chinese Hot and Sour Soup:
With its tangy and savory flavors, a bowl of hot and sour soup contrasts the mild taste of spring rolls. This classic Chinese soup contains tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and spices.
Kimchi, the famous Korean fermented cabbage dish, offers a spicy, tangy, and crunchy side to complement spring rolls. The combination of the two provides a burst of bold flavors and textures.
Steamed edamame, lightly salted and served warm or cold, is a simple and nutritious side dish that pairs well with spring rolls. The tender soybean pods are a delightful and protein-rich accompaniment.
Thai Green Mango Salad (Som Tum Mamuang):
Like papaya salad, green mango salad features shredded unripe mango, chili, lime juice, and fish sauce. It’s a tangy and refreshing side that adds a tropical twist to your spring roll feast.
Instant Pot Vietnamese Pho:
A bowl of Vietnamese pho is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more substantial side. This aromatic noodle soup, typically made with beef or chicken, offers a rich and savory contrast to the lighter spring rolls.
Instant Pot Vegetable Fried Rice:
Vegetable fried rice is a classic, versatile side dish that perfectly complements spring rolls. It’s made by stir-frying cooked rice with various vegetables such as peas, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions.
For added flavor, the rice is seasoned with soy sauce and aromatics like garlic and ginger. It’s a comforting and satisfying side that offers a mix of textures and flavors to balance the crispy spring rolls.
Coconut rice is a fragrant, creamy side dish that pairs wonderfully with spring rolls. It’s made by cooking jasmine or basmati rice in coconut milk, resulting in a subtly sweet and aromatic flavor profile.
Coconut rice adds a touch of richness and sweetness to your meal, complementing the savory spring rolls perfectly. You can garnish it with toasted coconut flakes or fresh cilantro for an extra flavor and texture.
Instant Pot Thai Pineapple Fried Rice:
Thai pineapple fried rice is a tropical and flavorful side dish that enhances the dining experience with spring rolls. This dish combines cooked rice with juicy pineapple chunks, shrimp or chicken, cashews, and Thai seasonings. The result is a colorful and sweet-savory rice dish that adds exotic flavors to your meal. The combination of sweet pineapple and the satisfying crunch of cashews creates a delightful contrast with the spring rolls.
Thai Cucumber Salad (Som Tum Taeng):
Thai cucumber salad, or Som Tum Taeng, is a refreshing side dish that complements spring rolls beautifully. It features thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and chili peppers, all tossed in a tangy dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and garlic. This salad offers a crisp and zesty counterpart to the crispy texture of spring rolls. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a light and palate-cleansing side to balance the richness of your meal.
Instant Pot Korean Kimchi Fried Rice:
Kimchi fried rice is a bold and flavorful side dish that pairs exceptionally well with spring rolls. It’s made by stir-frying cooked rice with kimchi, kimchi juice, and a combination of pork, tofu, or vegetables. The result is a spicy and umami-packed fried rice dish that adds a kick of heat and tang to your meal. Kimchi fried rice’s complex flavors create a dynamic contrast with the mild taste of spring rolls, making it a satisfying and memorable combination.
Vietnamese Bun Cha (Grilled Pork and Noodle Salad):
Vietnamese Bun Cha is a hearty side dish that offers a complete meal experience alongside spring rolls. It features grilled pork patties served over vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. The dish is typically accompanied by a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili peppers. The combination of grilled protein, noodles, and vibrant herbs balances flavors and textures that enhance the spring roll feast.
Instant Pot Thai Tom Yum Soup:
Tom Yum soup is a classic Thai side dish that adds a spicy and tangy kick to your spring roll meal. This hot and sour soup features a fragrant broth made with ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and shrimp or chicken. The soup is known for its bold and aromatic flavors, with a perfect balance of sourness, spiciness, and umami. Sipping on Tom Yum soup between bites of spring rolls can awaken your taste buds and create a harmonious dining experience.
Air Fryer Chinese Broccoli with Oyster Sauce (Gai Lan):
Chinese broccoli, or Gai Lan, is a tender and leafy green vegetable often served as a side dish to complement spring rolls. It’s blanched and then drizzled with a savory oyster sauce, adding depth of flavor and a glossy finish to the greens. The slightly bitter broccoli and the umami-rich oyster sauce contrast the spring rolls’ crispy exterior.
Instant Pot Thai Sticky Rice with Mango (Khao Niew Mamuang):
Thai sticky rice with mango is perfect for a sweet and indulgent side. This classic Thai dessert features glutinous rice soaked in creamy coconut milk and served with ripe mango slices. The dessert is sweet, fragrant, and slightly chewy, making it a delightful way to end your spring roll meal on a sweet note.
The tropical flavors of mango and coconut harmonize beautifully with the savory spring rolls, creating a memorable combination.
Pro Tips For Choosing Side Dishes For Spring Rolls
Choosing the right side dishes to complement your spring rolls can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some pro tips to help you select the perfect side dishes:
- Consider Flavor Contrast: Spring rolls are often mild and crispy, so look for side dishes with contrasting flavors. If your spring rolls are savory, choose sides with a hint of sweetness or tanginess to balance the taste.
- Texture Matters: Pay attention to texture. Since spring rolls are crunchy, choose sides that offer a different texture, such as the crispiness of salads, the chewiness of rice, or the tenderness of grilled meats.
- Dipping Sauce Compatibility: Think about the dipping sauces you will serve with the spring rolls. Side dishes pairing well with your chosen sauces can enhance the dining experience.
- Cultural Harmony: Consider the cuisine’s cultural origin. Vietnamese-inspired sides like noodle salads or fresh herbs can be great for serving Vietnamese spring rolls. Similarly, choose sides that complement the cultural influences of your spring rolls.
- Balance Nutritional Needs: Ensure your side dishes offer a balanced meal. Incorporate vegetables, proteins, and grains to create a well-rounded dining experience.
- Customize for Dietary Preferences: Accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions by offering a variety of sides. Include options for vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free diets, and those with specific food allergies.
- Pair Cold and Hot: Combining both hot and cold sides can add depth to your meal. Hot sides like fried rice or grilled meats contrast nicely with cold salads or chilled soups.
- Seasonal Ingredients: Make the most of seasonal ingredients. Choose sides incorporating fresh produce in season to ensure the highest quality and flavor.
- Visual Appeal: Consider the visual presentation. Vibrant, colorful sides can make the meal more visually appealing and inviting.
- Variety and Quantity: Offer a variety of side dishes to cater to different tastes. You can serve multiple sides family-style, allowing guests to mix and match according to their preferences.
- Experiment and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with new side dish combinations. Your guests may appreciate unique and unexpected pairings.
- Ask for Preferences: If you’re serving a group, consider asking your guests about their dietary preferences and any allergies in advance. This way, you can plan your sides accordingly and ensure everyone enjoys the meal.
By keeping these pro tips in mind, you can curate a selection of side dishes that not only complement your spring rolls but also create a well-balanced and memorable dining experience for you and your guests.
Faq’s
What are the best side dishes to serve with spring rolls? The best side dishes to serve with spring rolls often include salads like Vietnamese noodle salad (Bun Cha Gio), Thai papaya salad (Som Tum), or cucumber salad. Additionally, you can opt for flavorful rice dishes, such as coconut rice or vegetable fried rice. It’s all about finding a balance of flavors and textures that complement the spring rolls.
Can I serve spring rolls with a soup side dish? Yes, serving spring rolls with soup can be a delightful choice. Consider pairing them with Thai Tom Yum soup or Chinese hot and sour soup for a contrasting combination of flavors and temperatures.
What vegetarian side dishes work well with spring rolls? Vegetarian side dishes that pair well with spring rolls include fresh vegetable salads, tofu-based dishes, or vegetable stir-fried rice. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor.
Are there gluten-free side dishes suitable for spring rolls? Yes, there are plenty of gluten-free side dish options to accompany spring rolls. Opt for rice-based dishes like Thai sticky rice with mango, gluten-free fried rice, or gluten-free noodle salads. Be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in your recipes if needed.
Can I serve spring rolls with dessert as a side dish? While it’s less common, you can certainly serve spring rolls with a dessert side like Thai sticky rice with mango or fresh fruit platters. Just be mindful of the overall balance of flavors and make sure the dessert complements the meal.
Should I serve cold or hot side dishes with spring rolls? Both cold and hot side dishes can work well with spring rolls. Cold sides like salads provide a refreshing contrast, while hot sides like fried rice or grilled meats offer a warm and satisfying combination.
Can I serve multiple side dishes with spring rolls? Yes, serving multiple side dishes with spring rolls can provide variety and cater to different tastes. Consider offering a selection of sides, such as salads, rice dishes, and soups, for your guests to choose from.
What are some creative side dishes to serve with spring rolls? Get creative with sides by exploring different cuisines and flavors. You can try Korean kimchi fried rice, Chinese broccoli with oyster sauce, or Japanese edamame for unique and exciting pairings.
How can I accommodate dietary preferences and allergies with side dishes? To accommodate dietary preferences and allergies, offer a range of side dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options. Communicate with your guests in advance to ensure everyone can enjoy the meal safely.
Can I serve spring rolls with multiple dipping sauces as side dishes? Yes, serving a variety of dipping sauces as side dishes can enhance the spring roll experience. Offer classic sauces like sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, hoisin sauce, and soy sauce for guests to choose from.
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What to Serve with Spring Rolls (20+ Side Dishes)
Description
Ingredients
- 6 frozen spring rolls
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure it’s fully preheated before you start cooking.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the spring rolls from sticking to the pan and for easy cleanup.
- Place the frozen spring rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll to allow for even cooking. You can cook as many as you need.
- If desired, lightly brush the tops of the spring rolls with cooking spray or vegetable oil. This step helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Place the baking sheet with the spring rolls in the preheated oven on the center rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the rolls over halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that they cook evenly and become golden brown on all sides.
- Keep an eye on the spring rolls as they bake. They should be crispy and golden brown when done. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand and size of the spring rolls, so adjust accordingly.
- Once the spring rolls are cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a minute or two before serving.
- Serve your oven-baked spring rolls with your favorite dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or peanut sauce for a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil for brushing
Notes
Nutrition
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