Goi Cuon: Fresh and Flavorful Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables, shrimp, and herbs wrapped in rice paper. The rolls are typically served with a deliciously savory peanut dipping sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or light meal. This dish is not only healthy but also bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant colors.

### Ingredients:

**For the Spring Rolls:**- 12 rice paper wrappers- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and sliced in half lengthwise)- 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles- 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens- 1/2 cup shredded carrots- 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

**For the Peanut Dipping Sauce:**- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter- 1-2 tablespoons soy sauce- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce if necessary)- 1 clove garlic, minced- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional, for a bit of heat)- Chopped peanuts and fresh lime wedges for garnish

### Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Ingredients:**- Start by prepping all the vegetables and herbs. Shred the lettuce, carrots, and julienne the cucumber.- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse under cold water and drain well.- Have the shrimp cooked, peeled, and sliced.

**2. Set Up Your Rolling Station:**- Fill a large shallow dish or pie plate with warm water.- Have a clean, damp tea towel or cutting board ready to work on.

**3. Assemble the Spring Rolls:**- Take one rice paper wrapper and dip it into the warm water for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable and soft.- Lay the wrapper flat on your work surface.- On the bottom third of the wrapper, place a small handful of the noodles, followed by some lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and a few leaves of each herb.- Place 2-3 shrimp halves just above the pile of vegetables.- Carefully fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. The rice paper will seal itself as you roll.- Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

**4. Make the Peanut Dipping Sauce:**- In a small bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, water, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce (if using) until smooth.- Adjust the consistency with more water if necessary and taste to adjust seasoning.- Garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.

**5. Serve:**- Arrange the spring rolls on a platter with the peanut dipping sauce on the side.- Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges, if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing and healthy Goi Cuon with a side of savory peanut sauce!