Spring rolls are a tasty and healthy option for a light meal or snack. These colorful spring rolls are filled with fresh vegetables, crispy scampi (or another protein source) and the tangy, distinctive flavor of kimchi. In this blog, we share not only the recipe, but also the benefits of kimchi and why you should definitely add it to your diet.

Ingredients

For the spring rolls:

• 8 sheets of rice paper
• 200 g scampi (or tofu, chicken or other protein source)
• 1 carrot, julienne cut
• 1 cucumber, julienne sliced
• 1 red bell bell pepper, in thin strips
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 100 g baby spinach or sliced lettuce
• Fresh herbs such as mint or cilantro (optional)

For the kimchi:

• 100 g kimchi from Go Guts

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of lime juice
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped (optional)

Benefits of Kimchi

Kimchi is not only a delicious addition to your meals, but it also has numerous health benefits:

1. Probiotics: Kimchi is fermented, which means it is rich in probiotics. These good bacteria contribute to healthy digestion and can help improve gut flora.

2. Nutrients: Kimchi is made from various vegetables, which are packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, and C, as well as antioxidants that support our immune system.

3. Supports weight loss: Eating fermented foods such as kimchi can help control weight because it can aid digestion and provide a feeling of satiety.

4. Anti-inflammatory: Some ingredients in kimchi, such as ginger, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Preparation

1. Preparing the scampi: Cook the scampi in a pan with a little oil until pink and cooked, usually about 3-5 minutes. If you use another protein source, prepare it according to the instructions.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and cut all vegetables as described in the ingredient list. Make sure they are cut into thin, even strips for better texture and flavor.

3. Soak rice paper: Fill a large bowl with warm water and dip a sheet of rice paper in it until it is soft and pliable (about 20-30 seconds). Remove the sheet and place it on a clean, flat surface.

4. Filling and rolling: Place a handful of vegetables, a few scampi and a spoonful of kimchi in the center of the rice paper. Fold the sides in and roll up tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

5. Making sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil and, if desired, the chopped garlic.

6. Serving: Serve the springrolls with the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your healthy and delicious springrolls!

Variation tips

One of the great things about spring rolls is their versatility. Here are some additional ideas to customize your spring rolls to your personal taste:

• Substitute the protein source: If you're not a fan of scampi, try grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra crunch: Consider vegetables such as bean sprouts, radishes, roasted peanuts or our Nuts About Your granola for added texture.
• Herbs and spices: Add some spicy sauce or chili flakes to the filling for an extra kick. Fresh herbs such as basil or mint can also provide a fresh flavor.

Storage and serving

Spring rolls are best when made fresh, but you can prepare them up to a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Be sure to place them in an air-tight container to prevent drying out. Serve them as a mix of a healthy appetizer or a light meal, ideal for a summer lunch or snack for friends.

Health benefits summarized

By incorporating kimchi into your spring rolls, you not only benefit from the delicious flavors, but also add a range of health benefits. From improving digestion to increasing nutrient absorption.