We couldn't resist and devoured 5 straight from the oven before dinner!

Crispy Shrimp and Chive Rice Paper Rolls are a delightful nod to the fusion of traditional Midwestern sensibilities with the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine. Growing up in the heartland, shrimp was a rare treat, often reserved for special occasions. These rolls bring back memories of family gatherings where we’d experiment with new flavors, blending them with our tried-and-true recipes. The combination of shrimp, chives, and garlic wrapped in rice paper is a beautiful dance of textures and tastes, perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their meal.

These crispy rolls pair wonderfully with a light, refreshing salad, perhaps with a ginger or sesame dressing to complement the flavors. A side of steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of miso soup would also make for a comforting and complete meal. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving with a fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like peaches or apples.

Servings: 20 rolls

20 rice paper wrappers
1 pound cooked shrimp, finely chopped
1/4 cup chives, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, chives, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes pliable.

Place a spoonful of the shrimp mixture onto the center of the softened rice paper.

Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a neat roll.

Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each roll lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are crispy and golden brown.

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture. You can also swap out the shrimp for cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein option. If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, consider adding fresh cilantro or mint to the filling. For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. These rolls can also be pan-fried for a different texture, just be sure to use a non-stick pan and a little more oil.