Teresa's Recipes
Pastrami and Cucumber Summer Rolls
Enjoy a vibrant twist on traditional summer rolls with these Pastrami and Cucumber Summer Rolls. They are refreshing, light, and bursting with flavor from the savory pastrami and crisp cucumber. Encased in delicate rice paper and paired with a tangy soy dipping sauce, these rolls make for a perfect appetizer or a light lunch on a hot summer day. Historically, summer rolls, known as 'gỏi cuốn' in Vietnam, are a delightful way to showcase fresh ingredients and are often enjoyed with a variety of fillings, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 sheets Rice paper wrappers
- 1 cup, cooked Rice vermicelli noodles
- 8 slices Pastrami
- 1 medium, julienned Cucumber
- 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup Fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup (for dipping) Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (optional, for added tang) Rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon (optional, for flavor enhancement) Sesame oil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 33g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a shallow dish, soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for about 30 seconds, or until they are soft and pliable. Be careful not to over-soak them.
- Lay a softened rice paper wrapper flat on a clean surface. In the center, place a slice of pastrami.
- Top the pastrami with a few pieces of julienned cucumber, a sprinkle of fresh mint and basil leaves, and a small handful of cooked rice vermicelli noodles.
- Fold the bottom of the wrapper up over the filling. Then, fold in the sides and roll up tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- For the dipping sauce, mix the soy sauce with rice vinegar and sesame oil for a tangy flavor. Adjust the measurements according to your taste.
- Serve the fresh rolls with the prepared dipping sauce and enjoy!
Tips
- Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño to each roll.
- These summer rolls can be made ahead of time; just keep them wrapped tightly in a damp paper towel and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.