Shrimp & Grapefruit Hand Rolls with Citrus Ponzu: A Fresh, Flavorful Snack
Elevate snack time with vibrant shrimp and grapefruit hand rolls, wrapped in nori and served with a zesty citrus ponzu.
Shrimp & Grapefruit Hand Rolls with Citrus Ponzu: A Refreshing, Nutritious Delight
If you’re searching for a light, vibrant snack or a satisfying lunch, shrimp and grapefruit hand rolls with citrus ponzu deliver both flavor and nutrition. Wrapped in crisp nori and filled with juicy shrimp, creamy avocado, fresh cucumber, and sweet-tart grapefruit segments, these hand rolls offer a delightful twist on traditional sushi—and at just over 100 calories each, they’re as healthy as they are delicious.
Why Try These Hand Rolls?
- Low-Calorie & Nutrient-Dense: Each roll has just 107 calories and is packed with lean protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
- Bold, Bright Flavors: Tangy grapefruit and a zesty homemade citrus ponzu sauce balance the richness of shrimp and avocado.
- Quick & Easy: Assembling these hand rolls is straightforward and requires no special sushi-rolling skills—simply fold and enjoy!
- Fun & Interactive: Perfect for customizing at home, making them suitable for solo snacks or group gatherings.
Understanding Hand Rolls (Temaki): A Japanese Inspiration
Hand rolls, or temaki sushi, are a popular Japanese snack. They feature nori (seaweed) sheets filled with seasoned rice and a selection of proteins and vegetables. The ingredients are rolled into a cone shape, making them easy to handle and ideal for on-the-go eating or sharing. While raw fish is classic, shrimp is a widely accessible alternative that works beautifully in this recipe.
Common Hand Roll Fillings
- Shrimp, crab, or other seafood
- Sliced avocado
- Julienned cucumber or other crunchy vegetables
- Fresh fruit segments (like grapefruit or mango)
- Rice seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt
Ingredient Guide: What You’ll Need
For the Citrus Ponzu Sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari: Brings savory, umami flavor. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon mirin: A sweet Japanese rice wine that adds depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens and accentuates the citrus notes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh grapefruit juice: Enhances the sweetness and tartness.
- Sliced scallion and grated grapefruit zest: Provides aromatic and visual appeal.
For the Hand Rolls
- 2 sheets toasted nori: The base for wrapping the rolls.
- 12 tablespoons cooked sushi rice, divided: Traditional sushi rice is seasoned for optimal taste and texture.
- Wasabi: Adds a spicy kick if desired.
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced, divided: Brings freshness and mild onion flavor.
- 4 slices avocado, divided: Creamy texture complementing the seafood.
- 1/4 seedless cucumber, cut into matchsticks, divided: Adds crunch and subtle sweetness.
- 4 cooked shrimp, halved lengthwise, divided: Delicate marine flavor and a boost of protein.
- 4 small grapefruit segments, divided: Tangy pop of fruit for balance.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
1. Prepare the Citrus Ponzu Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix tamari, mirin, lemon juice, and grapefruit juice until well combined.
- Stir in sliced scallion and grated grapefruit zest to taste.
- Set aside for dipping. The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated.
2. Assemble the Hand Rolls
- Halve the toasted nori sheets lengthwise to create four rectangles.
- Lay the nori rectangles on a dry work surface, shiny side down.
- Spoon 3 tablespoons of cooked sushi rice onto each nori piece. Flatten the rice gently with the back of a spoon for even distribution.
- Smear a dab of wasabi on top of each rice mound (optional for spice lovers).
- Add layers: scallion, avocado, cucumber, shrimp, and grapefruit segments.
- Lift one corner of the nori and roll tightly into a cone shape. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
What others are reading
Tips for Rolling Success
- Work with dry hands and surface—nori gets soggy if left too long with moist fillings.
- Don’t overfill; less is more for neat hand rolls.
- Seal the edge by moistening with a little water if needed.
- Eat promptly after assembling for the best texture.
Nutritional Benefits
| Per Hand Roll | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugars (g) | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 hand roll | 107 | 4 | 17 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 0.5 | 13 | 372 |
- Shrimp offers lean protein and is low in calories and fat.
- Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber.
- Nori is a source of minerals, especially iodine and iron.
Variations & Customizations
Hand rolls are endlessly adaptable. Try these swaps and additions to suit your palate:
- Protein: Substitute with cooked crab, smoked salmon, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Fruits: Swap grapefruit with mango, orange, or even pineapple for a sweeter or tangier burst.
- Veggies: Add radish, pickled carrots, or microgreens for different flavors and nutrients.
- Sauce: Replace ponzu with spicy mayo, sriracha, or plain soy sauce for a change of pace.
Serving Suggestions
Serve shrimp and grapefruit hand rolls as a refreshing lunch, a party appetizer, or a nutritious snack. Pair with:
- A bowl of miso soup
- Fresh fruit salad
- Edamame or seaweed salad
- Japanese pickles
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
- Shrimp and rice can be cooked in advance and stored separately, covered, in the refrigerator for up to one day.
- Slice avocado and grapefruit just before assembling to retain freshness and reduce browning.
- Hand rolls are best enjoyed fresh; nori loses its crispiness if stored with wet ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I cook the shrimp?
For this recipe, use boiled or steamed shrimp that have been cooled and cut in half lengthwise. Avoid overcooking for optimal tenderness.
Can I use another type of rice instead of sushi rice?
Short-grain white rice, such as sushi or Calrose, is recommended for its stickiness. In a pinch, use any cooked white rice, but the rolls may not hold together as well.
What is ponzu, and can I substitute the sauce?
Ponzu is a classic Japanese dipping sauce made with citrus, soy, and mirin. You can substitute it with a simple combination of soy sauce and lemon juice, or try a spicy mayo for a creamy touch.
Are these hand rolls vegetarian-friendly?
With shrimp, the traditional recipe is not vegetarian, but you can easily substitute tofu, roasted sweet potato, or grilled mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce and confirm all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free, this recipe is gluten-free.
Expert Tips for Sushi Hand Roll Success
- Use high-quality nori: Look for toasted, crisp sheets with a fresh, ocean aroma for the best texture.
- Keep ingredients cool: This enhances flavor balance and roll structure.
- Customize to taste: Hand rolls are ideal for individualizing—let your guests build their own combinations!
Explore More Healthy Recipes
- Mocha Overnight Oats
- Collard Green ‘Noodles’ and Chicken with Peanut Sauce
- Quick Mediterranean Breakfast Recipes
- Red Wine Risotto with Mushrooms
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Cannellini & Chimichurri
- Banana-Chocolate Chip Muffins
Conclusion: A Snack That Brightens Any Day
Shrimp and grapefruit hand rolls with citrus ponzu present a fresh, colorful, and wholesome way to enjoy sushi-inspired flavors at home. Whether you’re seeking a healthy lunch, an energetic snack, or a creative dish to share, these hand rolls highlight how simple ingredients and bright combinations can make everyday meals extraordinary.
References
- https://www.goodmoodfood.news/p/spicy-shrimp-hand-rolls
- https://www.feedmi.org/how-to-make-temaki-sushi-at-home/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a34865466/shrimp-grapefruit-hand-rolls-with-citrus-ponzu-recipe/
- https://www.ibreatheimhungry.com/spicy-shrimp-hand-rolls/
- https://www.lemon8-app.com/happytobehere/7284668121041748486?region=us
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