Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls

Name: Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 rice paper wrappers; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 ripe avocados, sliced; 1 cucumber, julienned; 1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Cooking Ideas

I love making Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls during the warmer months. The fresh ingredients combine perfectly, creating a light yet filling dish. Rolling these up is not just fun, but it also allows me to customize them according to my taste. The contrast of crunchy vegetables and creamy avocado, paired with succulent shrimp, is irresistible. I often serve them with a zesty dipping sauce that elevates the whole experience. These rolls are perfect for gatherings or a refreshing dinner option any time of year.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:38:19.321Z

When I first tried making summer rolls, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to wrap up my favorite ingredients. The key is to work with fresh, high-quality shrimp and perfectly ripe avocados for maximum flavor. I've experimented with different herbs and vegetables, and I found that incorporating fresh mint and crisp cucumbers really brings these rolls to life!

One tip I swear by is to dip the rice paper in warm water just long enough to soften it without turning it mushy. This allows you to wrap the rolls tightly without tearing the paper, resulting in a visually appealing presentation that’s sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant ingredients bursting with flavor
Light and healthy, perfect for summer dining
Customizable with your favorite fillings

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to the success of Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls. The vibrant flavors of ripe avocados, crunchy cucumbers, and aromatic mint come together to create a refreshing bite. Always select avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. This adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables. Ensure your shrimp are fresh, preferably wild-caught, as they offer a superior sweetness and firmness, enhancing both flavor and mouthfeel.

Moreover, swapping in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can add a new twist. If you have an abundance of herbs, incorporate cilantro or basil for added depth. The goal is to keep the ingredients light and fresh while allowing for creativity. This versatility is what makes summer rolls a favorite, enabling you to explore and tailor the rolls to suit your personal tastes.

Perfecting the Rolling Technique

Rolling the summer rolls might seem tricky at first, but practice will help you master it. Make sure not to soak the rice paper too long; about 10 seconds in warm water is perfect for achieving the right pliability. If the wrapper is too soft, it becomes fragile and tears easily. Lay the soaked wrapper flat, ensuring it doesn’t overlap any edges, which can also lead to difficulties when rolling.

When layering the fillings, keep the ingredients aligned in the center and don’t overstuff, as this will make it challenging to roll tightly. Start with the lower third of the wrapper and gently tuck it over the fillings. Then, fold in the sides to seal in your ingredients and continue rolling until you reach the top. With each roll, apply a little pressure to maintain a snug wrap. My trick is to keep a damp paper towel on hand to cover any unused wrappers to prevent them from drying out.

Enhancing the Dipping Sauce

While the summer rolls are delicious on their own, a well-made dipping sauce elevates the entire experience. The balance of flavors in the sauce—salty from the soy sauce, tangy from the rice vinegar, and a hint of sweetness from honey—enhances the fresh ingredients of the rolls. If you’re looking for a bolder flavor, increase the chili garlic sauce for more spice and depth, or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for texture.

For an easy twist, consider adding fresh ingredients to your dipping sauce, such as minced garlic or grated ginger. These can provide a delightful kick that complements the shrimp. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can easily whip up rolls whenever you're craving a fresh and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls:

For the Rolls

8 rice paper wrappers
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 ripe avocados, sliced
1 cucumber, julienned
1 cup lettuce leaves, shredded
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dipping Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until pink. Remove from heat and let cool.

Soften the Rice Paper

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds until it softens. Remove and lay it flat on a clean surface.

Assemble the Rolls

Place a piece of lettuce, a few slices of avocado, a few shrimp, several cucumber strips, and some mint leaves on the lower third of the wrapper. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and chili garlic sauce if using.

Serve

Arrange your summer rolls on a platter and serve with the dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

To make it easier, pre-cut all your ingredients beforehand. This makes rolling the summer rolls quick and simple!

Make-Ahead Tips

Shrimp and Avocado Summer Rolls are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare all the fillings a few hours in advance, such as cooking the shrimp and slicing the avocados and vegetables. Keep everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent browning, especially the avocado, which can oxidize quickly.

If you plan to roll them later, I suggest wrapping the filled rolls in a damp paper towel and then sealing them in a container. This will keep them moist until you're ready to serve. Just remember, the longer they sit, the softer the rice paper will become, so for the best texture, enjoy them within a few hours.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftover assembled summer rolls, it’s best to enjoy them within one day for optimal texture and flavor. Store them covered in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you find yourself with extra filling, those can be stored for a couple of days in an airtight container.

Freezing summer rolls is not recommended due to their delicate rice paper exterior, which can become tough when thawed. Instead, consider freezing the shrimp if you have any uncooked or unused ones. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using them for future rolls.

Flavor Variations

To keep things exciting, try different flavor profiles by varying the fillings. Instead of shrimp, you can use cooked chicken, tofu, or even a medley of grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. For a more tropical taste, add mango slices in place of avocado or alongside it for a sweet contrast.

Experimenting with different dipping sauces can also change the entire experience. A peanut dipping sauce made with smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice offers a creamy and nutty twist. Alternatively, a hoisin-based sauce can add richness. Don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients to find your favorite combinations that delight your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and devein them before cooking.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge and consume within a day for best freshness.

→ Can I prep these in advance?

Yes, but it's best to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.