Healthy Snack Recipe: Fresh Spring Rolls with Tofu

Ingredients (Makes 6–8 rolls):

• Vietnamese rice paper wrappers – 8 sheets
• Firm tofu – 1 block (cut into thin sticks)
• Carrot – 1 (julienned or cut into thin sticks)
• Cucumber – 1 (cut into thin sticks)
• Lettuce leaves – 5–6
• Fresh basil or mint – to taste
• Bell pepper (red or yellow) – 1/2 (cut into thin sticks)
• Olive oil – for grilling tofu

Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

• Japanese sesame dressing or ponzu sauce – 2 tbsp
• Ketchup – 1 tbsp
• Lime juice – 1 tbsp
• Roasted white sesame seeds – 1 tsp
• Fresh chili (sliced) – optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the tofu:
   Grill the tofu sticks in a non-stick pan with a small amount of olive oil until golden and crispy on the outside.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
   Wash all vegetables thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut the carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers into uniform thin sticks.
3. Soften the rice paper:
   Soak one rice paper sheet in warm water for 3–5 seconds, then lay it flat on a damp towel. Wait a few seconds until it’s soft and pliable.
4. Assemble the rolls:
   Lay a lettuce leaf on the bottom third of the rice paper. Add tofu, carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, and basil or mint.
   Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from the bottom up like a burrito.
5. Make the dipping sauce:
   Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust the flavor to your liking with more lime, chili, or sesame seeds.
6. Serve:
   Slice the rolls in half at an angle, arrange on a plate, and serve with dipping sauce.

Tips:

• For variety, try dipping sauces like yogurt garlic dip or spicy seafood sauce.
• These rolls are perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or post-workout snacks.