Our spicy noodle spring rolls are packed with zesty spicy noodles, fresh vibrant veggies, and crispy tofu. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game or need a fun weeknight recipe.
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Imagine the tangy zest of a spicy chili lime sauce mingling with the freshness of crisp vegetables and the satisfying crunch of tofu, all wrapped in delicate rice paper! Our spicy noodle spring rolls are the ultimate finger food, perfect for hosting yet easy enough to make on weeknights.
I started making spring rolls a few years ago after being inspired by so many beautiful fresh spring rolls online. I began experimenting with different flavors and sauces that would appeal to my family. We made a lot of avocado spring rolls with crispy tofu and fresh veggies, and they were very delicious 🙂 But I wanted to create a version that had a bolder flavor profile without losing the fun and freshness of the original recipe we loved so much.
Our spicy noodle spring roll was created using a perfectly balanced spicy chili lime sauce, fresh veggies, and crispy tofu. They have become a favourite recipe among our friends, and we love making these at our gatherings, especially during game day!
Need More Easy Small Bites & Apps
- Avocado Spring Rolls (for milder variations)
- Savory Eggplant Meatballs
- Smokey Eggplant Dip
- Medittarean Style Charcuterie (Gluten-Free with vegan options)
- Easy Sheet Pan Pumpkin Soup
👪Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy noodle spring roll have become a staple in our kitchen, and here is why we think you will love them too:
- Packed with Flavor - Each bite is a burst of zesty chili lime goodness, combined with the freshness of veggies and the satisfying crunch of tofu.
- Makes Great Apps - Ideal for any gathering, they're a hit as appetizers, offering a stylish and delicious start to your meals.
- Allergy-Friendly - Gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free, these spring rolls meet a range of dietary needs, making them a worry-free choice for everyone.
- Easy to Customize - Whether you're a fan of spicy heat or prefer a milder taste, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your palate.
- Crowd-Pleasing - These spring rolls are sure to impress your guests with their elegant presentation and irresistible taste.
🌶️Ingredients
Our spicy noodle spring rolls combine the best of both worlds: wholesome ingredients and a fiery kick. Here is what you need:
- Rice Noodles (thin or medium thickness) - The main ingredient for this spicy noodle spring roll dish. Chosen for their light texture and ability to soak up the spicy sauce. They are naturally gluten-free but please check the ingredients label or look for a certified gluten-free brand.
- Rice Paper Wrappers - You can find these in the international section of most grocery stores, or online.
Spicy Chili Lime Sauce Ingredients:
- Sesame Oil - Brings a nutty depth to our sauce.
- Soy Sauce (Gluten-free)- Adds a deep, umami flavor that contrasts beautifully with the other fresh ingredients. Look for the gluten-free version if you are gluten-free.
- Lime Juice - Brightens the dish with a splash of citrus.
- Maple Syrup - A touch of sweetness to balance the heat and acidity.
- Grated Ginger - Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sriracha.
- Garlic - A must-have for its punchy flavor.
- Sriracha (adjust to taste) - The heart of the spice, and easily customizable to how fiery you want your rolls.
- Chili Flakes - For that extra spice level that makes each bite more exciting.
Extra Filling:
- Extra Firm Tofu - Provides a hearty, protein-packed addition. Marinated in sesame oil, lime juice, salt, and garlic for an explosion of flavor.
- Raw Carrots - Adds a crunch and sweetness that contrasts with the spicy noodles.
- Raw Cabbage - Another layer of crunch and a fresh element.
- Green Onions - Their sharp, peppery taste brightens the overall flavor of the rolls.
👩🏽🍳Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep The Filling Ingredients:
Prep The Tofu - Remove the tofu from its package and press it to remove excess liquid. I use a clean kitchen towel for this, but a tofu press works better if you have one. Then slice the tofu into sticks and place them in a shallow dish.
Marinate The Tofu - Mix sesame oil, lime juice, salt, and garlic in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the tofu sticks, ensuring they're well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 5 minutes.
Cook The Tofu - Preheat your air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C) degrees. Arrange the tofu in the air fryer basket (or on a parchment-lined baking sheet) making sure the pieces don't touch. Air fry for 15 minutes or bake for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Prep The Veggies - While the tofu cooks, julienne the carrots and slice the green onions and cabbage. I prefer cutting the green onions into long, thin sticks for a more elegant presentation. Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand or skip altogether.
Step 2: Cook the Rice Noodles:
Boil a large pot of water and cook your thin rice noodles according to the package instructions. Do not overcook! Once cooked, drain and rinse with hot tap water. This will help remove any excess starch and prevent the noodles from sticking. Then set aside.
Chef tip: Slightly undercooking the noodles keeps them firm and prevents them from becoming mushy in the rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Zesty Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, sriracha or chili sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until the ingredients are well blended.
Chef Tip: Now is a great time to adjust the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference.
Step 4: Mix The Noodles:
Add the noodles into a large mixing bowl and pour the sauce over them. Then mix, ensuring they're evenly coated. Allow the noodles to marinate for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Roll Your Spicy Noodle Spring Rolls:
Soften The Rice Paper - Add warm water to a large bowl or a plate with a large lip. Then dip and roll a rice paper wrapper in warm water for a few seconds, just until it starts to soften. Then lay it on a clean, slightly damp surface.
Fill (see images) - On the lower third of the rice paper, place a small handful of marinated spicy fire noodles, followed by the sliced carrots, cabbage, green onions, and tofu. Don't overfill to ensure a tight roll.
Roll (see images) - Fold the rice paper over the fillings. Then fold each side towards the middle. Then continue to roll with some pressure. A tight roll holds the fillings together and makes the spring rolls easier to eat.
Serve - Cut the rolls in half and place them spring roll wrappers onto a dish. Serve some dipping sauce, we recommend using the same chili lime sauce or a spicy peanut sauce.
⚡Tips for Rolling Spring Rolls:
- Work on a Damp Surface: Make sure your surface is not too dry to avoid the paper sticking and tearing.
- Don't Over-Soak the Rice Paper: Dip the rice paper in warm water for just 2-3 seconds. It should still feel slightly firm as you remove it; it will soften as you add the fillings.
- Arrange Fillings Wisely: Place your fillings on the lower third of the rice paper, leaving about an inch of space at the bottom. This makes it easier to start the roll and tuck in the fillings snugly.
- Roll Tightly, But Gently: After folding the bottom over the fillings, pull back gently to tighten the roll before folding in the sides. Continue rolling, applying gentle pressure to ensure the roll is tight and compact without tearing the wrapper.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don't worry if your first few rolls aren't perfect. Practice will help you get a feel for the right amount of fillings and the best rolling technique.
- Keep Rolled Spring Rolls Moist: Cover them with a damp cloth or paper towel as you work to prevent them from drying out before serving.
💡Chef Tips For Fresh Rolls
Here's how to ensure your spicy noodle spring roll are a hit every time:
- Prevent Soggy Veggies - Pat dry any washed vegetables before adding them to your spring rolls. Excess moisture can make the rolls soggy and less appealing.
- Avoid Sticky Noodles - To prevent the noodles from sticking together, rinse them in lukewarm water after cooking and drain well. This also stops the cooking process, ensuring they maintain the perfect texture.
- Sauce Balance - Taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles. Adjusting the sweetness with maple syrup or the acidity with lime juice can make a big difference in the final flavor of your spring rolls.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tip
Let me share some of my favorite time-saving tips for making spicy noodle spring rolls:
- Prep in Advance - Chop your veggies and marinate the tofu the night before. You can even pre-cook the tofu and store it in the fridge. This way, assembling the spring rolls becomes a quick and easy task.
- Batch Cook - Double the recipe and make a larger batch of spring rolls. They store well in the fridge for a couple of days, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for busy weekdays.
- Use Pre-Cut Vegetables - If time is really tight, don't shy away from using pre-cut vegetables from your grocery store. It's a small investment that can save you a lot of chopping time.
- Simplify the Sauce - While homemade sauce adds a special touch, in a pinch, you can use a store-bought chili lime sauce or any pre-made sauce that fits the flavor profile.
- Make it Family-Friendly - Leave out the chili and siracha to make a mild version for your kiddos. That way you have an easy recipe for the whole family.
🥬Substitutions & Variations
This section is here to inspire you with ideas for substitutions and variations, ensuring you can still enjoy spicy noodle spring roll, even with a few tweaks:
- For a Family-Friendly Version: Skip the sriracha and chili flakes to make this spring roll recipe kid-friendly. You can add a sweet peanut sauce or a simple soy sauce and honey mixture for dipping, which is appealing to all ages.
- Veggie Swaps: No carrots or cabbage? No problem. Use whatever veggies you have on hand—bell peppers, cucumber, fresh herbs, or lettuce are all great options.
- Protein Alternatives: Not a fan of tofu? Substitute with shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or even canned chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
- Sauce Adjustments: If you're out of sesame oil or maple syrup, use olive oil and honey instead. The goal is to balance the sweet, tangy, and umami flavors in the sauce.
🥡Storage
Proper storage ensures your spicy noodle spring rolls stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here's how to keep them in tip-top shape:
In the Fridge: Store spring rolls in an airtight container with a damp paper towel on top and bottom to prevent them from drying out. They'll last for up to two days. For best results, keep the sauce separate and dip just before eating.
Reheating: While spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, you can briefly microwave them to take the chill off. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave on low for 10-20 seconds. Avoid overheating, as this can make the rice paper tough.
🧠Brain Health Benefits: Why add Tofu?
Tofu isn't just a versatile ingredient in our spicy noodle spring rolls; it's also a brain booster (1, 2, 3). Here's a quick look at its benefits:
- Isoflavones in tofu act as antioxidants, supporting cognitive functions and potentially reducing neurodegenerative disease risks.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids in enriched tofu varieties are essential for brain health, aiding in cognitive maintenance and reducing dementia risks.
- Protein and Essential Amino Acids found in tofu are crucial for neurotransmitter function and overall brain health.
- Key Minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron in tofu support nerve signaling, brain development, and cognitive performance.
❔Recipe FAQ
If your rice paper tears during rolling, it's likely because it was over-soaked. Remember, rice paper needs just a quick dip in warm water—enough to make it pliable but not so soft that it becomes fragile. It will continue to soften as you add the fillings. If it tears, don't worry; just double-wrap with another layer of rice paper for extra strength.
Loose spring rolls often result from not rolling tightly enough or overfilling. When you begin to roll, tuck in the filling tightly with the rice paper, then fold in the sides before continuing to roll. Think of it like rolling a burrito—the tighter, the better, without overstuffing.
Sogginess can result from over-soaked rice paper, too much sauce with the noodles, or wet vegetables. To avoid this, ensure your rice paper is lightly dipped in water, your veggies are patted dry, and you add just enough sauce to coat the noodles without pooling. Also, serve the extra sauce on the side for dipping rather than adding too much inside the roll.
🥣More Easy Gluten-Free Apps
I hope you loved our spicy noodle spring roll recipe as much as we do! If you are looking for more easy appetizers be sure to check out these:
📖 Recipe
Spicy Noodle Spring Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 package rice noodles
- 13-15 spring roll wrapper (rice paper)
Spicy Lime Chili Sauce
- 6 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce (gluten-free) (or tamari)
- 2 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoon fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoon garlic cloves
- 2 teaspoon sriracha
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
Extra Filling
- 450 grams extra firm tofu drained and pressed
- 2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 2 medium carrots sliced or julienne
- ¼ red cabbage sliced
- 3 stalks of green onions sliced
Instructions
Prep The Filling Ingredients
- Remove tofu from its package and press to remove excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or a tofu press. Slice into sticks and place in a shallow dish.450 grams extra firm tofu
- Mix sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Pour over tofu sticks, ensuring they're well-coated. Marinate for at least 5 minutes.2 tablespoon sesame oil, 2 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Preheat air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange tofu in the air fryer basket or on a parchment-lined baking sheet without touching. Air fry for 15 minutes or bake for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Julienne carrots and slice green onions and cabbage. Cut green onions into long, thin sticks for an elegant presentation. Use any veggies available.2 medium carrots, 3 stalks of green onions, ¼ red cabbage
Prepare the Rice Noodles
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the rice noodles as per package instructions. Avoid overcooking. Once done, drain and rinse with hot tap water to remove excess starch and prevent sticking. Set aside.1 package rice noodles
- Combine soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, sesame oil, sriracha or chili sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Stir until well blended. Adjust the amount of sriracha to taste.6 tablespoon sesame oil, ¼ cup soy sauce (gluten-free), 2 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 teaspoon fresh ginger, 2 teaspoon garlic cloves, 2 teaspoon sriracha, 1 teaspoon lime juice, ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- Add noodles to a large mixing bowl and pour the sauce over them. Mix well, ensuring even coating. Allow noodles to marinate for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Roll Your Spicy Noodle Spring Rolls
- Soften your rice paper one at a time. Dip a rice paper wrapper in warm water for a few seconds until slightly softened. Remove the paper before it is fully limp to avoid soggy rolls. Lay it on a clean, slightly damp surface.13-15 spring roll wrapper
- Place a small handful of marinated noodles on the lower third of the rice paper, followed by carrots, cabbage, green onions, and tofu. Avoid overfilling.
- Fold the bottom over the fillings, then fold in the sides. Continue to roll tightly.
- Cut rolls in half and serve with chili lime sauce or spicy peanut sauce for dipping.
Notes
Tips for Rolling Spring Rolls:
- Work on a Damp Surface: Make sure your surface is not too dry to avoid the paper sticking and tearing.
- Don't Over-Soak the Rice Paper: Dip the rice paper in warm water for just 2-3 seconds. It should still feel slightly firm as you remove it; it will soften as you add the fillings.
- Arrange Fillings Wisely: Place your fillings on the lower third of the rice paper, leaving about an inch of space at the bottom. This makes it easier to start the roll and tuck in the fillings snugly.
- Roll Tightly, But Gently: After folding the bottom over the fillings, pull back gently to tighten the roll before folding in the sides. Continue rolling, applying gentle pressure to ensure the roll is tight and compact without tearing the wrapper.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don't worry if your first few rolls aren't perfect. Practice will help you get a feel for the right amount of fillings and the best rolling technique.
- Keep Rolled Spring Rolls Moist: Cover them with a damp cloth or paper towel as you work to prevent them from drying out before serving.
Nutrition
📝Information Source
- Gleason, C. E., Fischer, B. L., Dowling, N. M., Setchell, K. D., Atwood, C. S., Carlsson, C. M., Asthana, S. (2015). Cognitive effects of soy isoflavones in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 47(4), 1009-1019.
- Soni, M., Rahardjo, T. B. W., Soekardi, R., Sulistyowati, Y., Yesufu-Udechuku, A., Irsan, A., Hogervorst, E. (2014). Phytoestrogens and cognitive function: A review. Maturitas, 77(3), 209-220.
- Kreijkamp-Kaspers, S., Kok, L., Grobbee, D. E., de Haan, E. H., Aleman, A., Lampe, J. W., van der Schouw, Y. T. (2004). Effect of soy protein containing isoflavones on cognitive function, bone mineral density, and plasma lipids in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA, 292(1), 65-74.
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