Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

The Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken is one of those dishes that whisk you away to a vibrant market filled with fresh ingredients and lively colors. I still remember the first time I made them; the kitchen was alive with the clinks and clatters of chopping and sizzling, and the delightful aroma of the peanut sauce wafting through the air instantly ignited my appetite. It was a casual gathering with friends, and I wanted something light yet satisfying, bursting with flavors that could transport us to sunny Southeast Asia.

As I prepped the fresh vegetables, I couldn’t help but admire the array of colors; bright red bell peppers, crunchy cabbage, and creamy avocado all came together to create a visual feast. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its presentation but also in its versatility. You can choose between juicy shrimp or tender chicken, making it adaptable for any occasion. Every time I prepare it, the excitement builds as I layer the rice noodles with the fresh toppings, drenching them in that creamy, rich peanut sauce that perfectly complements the crispness of the veggies.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these bowls never disappoint. The first bite is always a delightful explosion of flavors, and I find myself transported back to that sunny day every time I enjoy them. Trust me when I say that the Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken will quickly become a beloved staple in your home!

Key Ingredients for Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

The ingredients for the Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken are a vibrant mix of flavors and textures, coming together to create a nutritious meal. Each component plays a vital role in the final dish, from the crunchy vegetables to the creamy peanut sauce. The balance of fresh herbs adds brightness, while the noodles serve as a hearty base.

• 1 1/4 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined or 1 lb chicken, diced into 1-inch cubes: The main protein source, providing a satisfying texture and flavor.
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint or basil: Offers a refreshing note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and crunch.
• 1 red bell pepper, cored and julienned: Brings sweetness and a pop of color to the bowls.
• 1 large carrot, peeled and julienned: Adds crunch and sweetness, making the dish more enjoyable.
• 1 large avocado, sliced: Offers creaminess that balances the crunch of the vegetables.
• 1/3 English cucumber, halved and thinly sliced: Adds a refreshing crunch to the dish.
• 1 cup very thinly sliced red cabbage: Provides color, crunch, and health benefits.
• 8 – 10 oz medium thick white or brown rice noodles: The base of the bowl, providing substance and a neutral flavor.
• 1/2 cup creamy low-sodium peanut butter: Forms the heart of the peanut sauce, adding richness and depth.
• 2 tsp finely peeled and minced fresh ginger: Adds warmth and spice to the sauce.
• 1 tsp minced garlic: Complements the ginger and enhances the sauce’s flavor.
• 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lime juice: Brightens the sauce with acidity.
• 1 1/2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or regular): Adds umami and saltiness to the mix.
• 2 tsp sriracha: Provides a spicy kick to the sauce.
• 1 1/2 tbsp packed light-brown sugar: Balances the flavors with sweetness.
• 1 1/2 tbsp honey: Further sweetens the sauce and enhances its richness.
• 1 tsp fish sauce (optional): Adds depth and complexity to the sauce, but can be omitted if desired.
• 4 – 6 tbsp hot water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Instructions for Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

Making the Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken is a fun, interactive process that allows you to play with different textures and flavors. Follow these easy steps to create your own colorful bowls.

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all of the peanut sauce ingredients, including peanut butter, ginger, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, sriracha, brown sugar, honey, and fish sauce if using. Add enough hot water to create a runny sauce that’s easy to drizzle. Set the sauce aside and let the flavors meld.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your shrimp (or chicken if you prefer). If using shrimp, season lightly with salt, and cook them for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. For chicken, cook on medium-high heat for about 7 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. It’s best to prep all of the ingredients beforehand to ensure the noodles don’t stick together once they’re done cooking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Now it’s time to assemble. Divide the cooked noodles among 4 plates. Place a generous sprinkling of cilantro, mint, and green onions on top of the noodles, creating a beautiful base.
5. Next, layer on the sliced red bell pepper, carrot, avocado, cucumber, and red cabbage. Make sure to arrange the ingredients artistically so each bowl looks appealing and colorful.
6. Finally, top each bowl with the cooked shrimp (or chicken) and drizzle generously with the peanut sauce. Enjoy your vibrant, delicious Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken!

Things Worth Knowing

Expert Tips about Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

Creating the perfect Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken comes with a few handy tips that can elevate your dish. Here’s how to make it even better!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the peanut sauce separate to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy.
• Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled bowls, you can freeze the cooked shrimp or chicken and peanut sauce separately for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve these bowls with a refreshing drink like iced tea or coconut water to complement the flavors.
• Variations: Experiment with different proteins such as tofu or beef for a different take on this recipe.
• Serving Temperature: These bowls are best served fresh, but you can enjoy them cold for a delightful summer meal.

Serving Ideas for Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

When it comes to serving the Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken, you have plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• Light Lunch: These bowls make for a perfect light lunch option, providing both nourishment and satisfaction without feeling heavy.
• Picnic Perfection: Pack them in a lunchbox for a delightful picnic treat! They travel well and taste just as good cold.
• Family Dinner: Gather around the table and let everyone customize their own bowls. It’s a fun way to share a meal!
• Seasonal Serving: These bowls are great during warmer months when fresh produce is in abundance. Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
• Side Dishes: Pair the bowls with a light salad or some crispy spring rolls to complete your Asian-inspired meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken truly encapsulate the essence of vibrant, fresh flavors in a simple dish. With the delightful mix of fresh vegetables, protein, and a creamy peanut sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. I encourage you to try this recipe – it’s not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken

The ultimate comfort food that satisfies your craving for freshness and flavor! These Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken combine vibrant veggies and protein, all drizzled with a creamy peanut sauce. It's the perfect dish for a light meal or an impressive dinner party. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Peeler
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/4 lbs Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined or use chicken as an alternative.
• 1 lb Chicken Diced into 1-inch cubes.
• 1/3 cup Cilantro Chopped fresh for a zesty flavor.
• 1/3 cup Mint Chopped fresh; basil can be used as an alternative.
• 1/3 cup Green Onions Chopped for added crunch.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper Cored and julienned for sweetness.
• 1 Carrot Peeled and julienned for crunch.
• 1 Avocado Sliced for creaminess.
• 1/3 English Cucumber Halved and thinly sliced for refreshing crunch.
• 1 Red Cabbage Very thinly sliced for color and texture.
• 8 - 10 oz Rice Noodles Medium thick, cooked according to package instructions.
• 1/2 cup Peanut Butter Creamy and low-sodium for the sauce.
• 2 tsp Fresh Ginger Finely peeled and minced for warmth.
• 1 tsp Garlic Minced to enhance the sauce's flavor.
• 1 1/2 tbsp Lime Juice Freshly squeezed for brightness.
• 1 1/2 tbsp Soy Sauce Low-sodium or regular for seasoning.
• 2 tsp Sriracha For added heat in the sauce.
• 1 1/2 tbsp Brown Sugar Packed for sweetness in the sauce.
• 1 1/2 tbsp Honey For extra richness in the sauce.
• 1 tsp Fish Sauce Optional for depth in the sauce.
• 4 - 6 tbsp Hot Water To adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together all of the peanut sauce ingredients, including peanut butter, ginger, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, sriracha, brown sugar, honey, and fish sauce if using. Add enough hot water to create a runny sauce that’s easy to drizzle. Set the sauce aside and let the flavors meld.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your shrimp (or chicken if you prefer). If using shrimp, season lightly with salt, and cook them for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. For chicken, cook on medium-high heat for about 7 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. It’s best to prep all of the ingredients beforehand to ensure the noodles don’t stick together once they’re done cooking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Now it’s time to assemble. Divide the cooked noodles among 4 plates. Place a generous sprinkling of cilantro, mint, and green onions on top of the noodles, creating a beautiful base.
• Next, layer on the sliced red bell pepper, carrot, avocado, cucumber, and red cabbage. Make sure to arrange the ingredients artistically so each bowl looks appealing and colorful.
• Finally, top each bowl with the cooked shrimp (or chicken) and drizzle generously with the peanut sauce. Enjoy your vibrant, delicious Rainbow Spring Roll Bowls with Shrimp or Chicken!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the peanut sauce separate to prevent the ingredients from getting soggy.

Keyword easy spring roll recipe, healthy dinner bowl, peanut sauce recipe, shrimp spring rolls

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!