Air Fryer Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Spring Rolls

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Air-Fried Spring Rolls

If you’re looking for a lighter, healthier way to enjoy crispy spring rolls without deep frying, these Air Fryer Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Spring Rolls are the answer. Packed with fresh veggies, creamy protein, and a satisfying crunch, they’re the perfect bite-sized pick-me-up for mid-morning, afternoon, or even post-workout cravings.

• Air fryer method uses less oil for a cleaner crisp

• High in protein from cottage cheese

• Gluten-free rice wrappers keep it light and accessible

• Crunchy on the outside, tender and creamy on the inside

• Customizable with herbs, spice, or added protein

• Quick prep — ready in under 20 minutes

Whether you’re eating clean, craving something savory, or need a snack that won’t weigh you down, these rolls deliver bold texture and balanced nutrition without fuss.

Ingredient Highlights

Zucchini

Zucchini brings crunch, hydration, and fiber to the mix. When julienned, it blends smoothly with other fillings and offers a clean, neutral base that works beautifully with creamy or savory flavors.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese acts as the creamy binder in this filling. It boosts protein, keeps the filling moist, and contrasts with the crisp exterior. Mild and naturally low in fat, it’s a smart substitute for creamier cheese blends or mayonnaise.

Carrot

Julienned carrot adds color, texture, and sweetness. It also adds beta carotene and crunch, making the rolls visually appealing and more satisfying with each bite.

Rice Paper Wrappers

These light, naturally gluten-free wrappers become perfectly crisp in the air fryer with just a light spritz of oil. They allow the filling to shine and provide the ideal golden shell.

Cilantro

Chopped fresh cilantro cuts through the richness of the cheese and adds a bright, herbaceous lift that enhances the freshness of the whole roll.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

• 6 rice paper wrappers

• 1 medium zucchini, julienned

• ½ cup cottage cheese

• 1 carrot, julienned

• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• Spray oil (olive or avocado recommended)

• Soy sauce or sweet chili sauce, for dipping

Optional Add-ins and Substitutes:

• Add shredded cooked chicken or tofu for more protein

• Swap cilantro for basil or mint

• Use grated daikon or cucumber in place of carrot

• Add a pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes to the cottage cheese

• Serve with peanut sauce, hoisin, or sriracha for variety

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill a large shallow plate or dish with warm water. Submerge one rice paper wrapper until soft and pliable, about 15–20 seconds.

2. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean plate or cutting board.

3. In the center, add a small handful of julienned zucchini and carrot.

4. Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of cottage cheese over the vegetables.

5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the filling.

6. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom to seal. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

7. Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray each roll with oil.

8. Place rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, seam side down. Do not overcrowd.

9. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the wrappers are golden and lightly blistered.

10. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

• Don’t oversoak the rice paper — just enough to soften without tearing

• Keep wrappers moist with a damp towel if making multiple rolls at once

• For extra crispness, lightly brush the rolls with oil instead of spraying

• Avoid overfilling to make the wrap easier to seal and cook evenly

• Use parchment or perforated air fryer liners to prevent sticking

Variations

1. Thai-Inspired: Add chopped peanuts, lime zest, and Thai basil

2. Spicy Veggie: Mix sriracha or chili paste into the cottage cheese

3. Sweet-Savory: Add finely diced apple or mango to the filling

4. Vegan Version: Use mashed tofu or hummus in place of cottage cheese

5. Breakfast Roll: Add scrambled egg and spinach to the mix for a protein-packed morning snack

Serving Suggestions

These crispy spring rolls are versatile and fit into a wide range of eating occasions — from snack plates to light meals. Their neutral, fresh flavor makes them perfect for dipping and pairing with sauces and sides.

Ideas for Serving:

• With soy sauce, sweet chili, or peanut dipping sauce

• Alongside a small cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing

• With miso soup or broth for a light, satisfying lunch

• On a bento-style plate with sliced fruit and edamame

• As a post-workout snack with a side of Greek yogurt or hummus

Because they’re packed with protein and fiber, they’ll keep you full without the sluggish feeling that fried snacks often bring.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration:
Cool any leftover rolls completely and store in an airtight container. Place parchment between layers to avoid sticking. Best consumed within 2 days.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the rice wrappers can become tough or gummy after freezing and reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until crispy again

• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes

• Microwave: Use only if you’re in a rush; texture will be softer

For best results, air frying is the preferred method to bring back the crisp shell.

Nutritional Benefits

These rolls offer a nutrient-rich snack or light meal, built on vegetables and lean protein. They’re also naturally gluten-free and lower in fat than traditional deep-fried versions.

Per Serving (approximate, 2 rolls):

• 10 g protein

• 5 g fat

• 25 g carbohydrates

Health Highlights:

• Cottage cheese provides a lean source of complete protein

• Zucchini and carrots offer fiber and vitamins A and C

• Cilantro adds antioxidants and detoxifying properties

• Air-fried instead of deep-fried = lower calorie load

• Naturally gluten-free with clean, whole-food ingredients

This recipe is especially ideal for those on balanced, high-protein, or mindful eating plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours in advance and store them wrapped in plastic in the fridge. Air fry just before serving for best crispness.

Can I pan-fry instead of using an air fryer?
Yes. Lightly oil a nonstick skillet and cook the rolls over medium heat until golden on both sides. Cover briefly to heat through.

What other fillings work well with cottage cheese?
Try adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, bell pepper, or cooked quinoa for variety.

Can I use egg roll wrappers instead of rice paper?
Yes, but note that they are typically made with wheat flour and will not be gluten-free. Cooking time may also be slightly longer.

Do these get soggy if not eaten right away?
They are crispest when fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer to restore texture. Avoid storing them while warm in airtight containers to prevent steam buildup.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Zucchini & Cottage Cheese Spring Rolls are proof that you don’t need deep oil or heavy wrappers to create a crispy, satisfying snack. With just a few clean ingredients and a quick roll-and-fry method, you get something fresh, crunchy, and totally craveable.

Whether you’re looking for a smart snack, lunchbox upgrade, or light appetizer, this recipe delivers flavor and function — with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Make a batch, pair it with your favorite sauce, and enjoy that perfect balance of crispy and creamy in every bite.

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