Vietnamese Spring Roll Bowls with Peanut-Lime Dressing

Our Spring Roll Bowls are a deconstructed take on classic Vietnamese spring rolls, combining crisp vegetables, tender grilled shrimp, and slices of flavorful lemongrass pork tenderloin. This light, fast meal requires minimal active cooking time, can be prepped ahead, and is ideal for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or an easy lunch. A creamy, well-balanced homemade peanut sauce ties everything together for a bowl that’s bright, satisfying, and full of fresh texture.

Spring Roll Bowls

I love this version because it uses sliced pieces of a grilled lemongrass pork tenderloin alongside seasoned shrimp, rice noodles, crisp lettuce, cucumber, and bean sprouts. If you enjoy Vietnamese spring rolls but don’t love spending time rolling them, these bowls give you all the flavors and texture without the fuss. They’re flexible: swap proteins, change the spice level, or add more vegetables to suit your taste.

Why you’ll love this dish

• Fresh and crisp: Lettuce, bean sprouts, and cucumber add cooling crunch.
• Fast to make: Grill or pan-sear shrimp and warm the noodles—everything else is raw or ready-to-assemble.
• Highly customizable: Use chicken, tofu, or salmon instead of shrimp, and adjust the peanut sauce heat.
• Balanced flavors: The peanut sauce provides savory, sweet, salty, and spicy notes that complement the herbs and vegetables.
• Meal prep friendly: Cook components ahead and assemble just before serving to keep textures fresh.

Recipe shopping list

Below are the ingredients you’ll need. For exact measurements and a printable recipe card, consult the recipe section further down.

• Shrimp (12 jumbo, peeled)
• Orange gochugaru or your preferred Asian-inspired rub
• Grilled lemongrass pork tenderloin (sliced)
• Green leaf lettuce
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Rice noodles (vermicelli)
• Cucumber, thinly sliced

Peanut sauce essentials:

• Creamy peanut butter
• Hoisin sauce
• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Fish sauce
• Roasted garlic paste
• Honey
• Sambal Oelek (or another chili paste for heat)

How to make this recipe (overview)

The overview below gives a clear picture of the steps involved. Use the full ingredient list and instructions in the recipe card below while cooking.

1. Grill or cook the shrimp: Preheat a grill or stovetop to medium-high. Skewer or place the shrimp on a hot surface, season with the rub, and cook about 2–3 minutes per side until opaque. Remove and let cool briefly.
2. Prepare rice noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and drain well to prevent sticking.
3. Prep the vegetables: Wash and chop lettuce, slice cucumber, and trim or rinse bean sprouts.
4. Mix the peanut sauce: Whisk peanut butter, hoisin, soy sauce, fish sauce, roasted garlic paste, honey, and sambal until smooth. Adjust consistency with water and seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the bowls: Divide noodles, lettuce, pork slices, shrimp, cucumber, and bean sprouts between bowls. Drizzle the peanut sauce over each and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Cook the shrimp, make the peanut sauce, and prepare the noodles ahead. Store components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving to keep textures crisp.

How should I store leftovers? Keep components separate for up to two days. Don’t combine the sauce with the salad ingredients until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.

What can I use instead of shrimp? Chicken, firm tofu, or grilled salmon are great alternatives and work well with the same seasonings and sauce.

Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely—add more sambal or chili paste for heat, or reduce it for a milder sauce. Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and Thai basil also brighten flavors without adding spice.

Serve this with

• Vietnamese iced coffee for a refreshing pairing
• Vietnamese egg rolls served with dipping sauce
• Pickled carrots and daikon to add tangy contrast

This Spring Roll Bowl balances crisp vegetables, savory proteins, and a creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce for a satisfying meal. It’s healthy, colorful, and easy to personalize.

Recipe card