The beginning of spring often means the desire for fresh, bright food that incorporates fresh herbs or exciting flavors. These spring rolls can be a great addition to an endurance athlete’s diet by offering a unique way to incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables.

The colorful fruits and vegetables provide several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc and magnesium. Adequate vitamins and minerals are key components of successful recovery, staving off illness and for overall health.  After many long months of heartier winter food, this recipe can be a great option to kick start the new season!

Rainbow Spring Rolls with Ginger Peanut Sauce

This recipe is from Minimalist Baker

Ingredients
7-8 rice spring roll papers
1 beet, skin removed and finely grated
1/2 yellow and red bell pepper, seeded, thinly sliced
1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
1 ripe mango, cubed
1 large bunch mint leaves
1 large bunch cilantro, cut from stems
Optional: 8 ounces extra firm tofu, 1 cup cooked quinoa OR 8 ounces cooked vermicelli noodles

Find recipe directions and ingredients for the ginger peanut sauce on minimalistbaker.com.

Ashleigh Libs is currently a master’s student in nutrition with a sports concentration at the University of Utah. She received her bachelor’s degree in dietetics, with a minor in psychology, from the University of Dayton (Ohio). She has experience working with the University of Louisville’s football team and the University of Dayton’s soccer, women’s volleyball and baseball teams. Her goal is to help people/athletes discover what works for them nutritionally to reach their performance goals. You can get in touch with Ashleigh by emailing her at ashleighlibs17@gmail.com.

The views expressed in this article are the opinion of the author and not necessarily the practices of USA Triathlon. Before starting any new diet or exercise program, you should check with your physician and/or coach.