Prep the noodles: Soak vermicelli in hot water per package directions (usually 3–5 minutes).
Drain well and toss with a squeeze of lime so they don’t clump.
Chop your veggies: Julienne cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers into thin matchsticks. Wash and pat dry lettuce. Slice avocado and green onions.
Get your protein ready: Slice cooked shrimp in half lengthwise, shred chicken, or cut tofu into thin strips.
Season lightly with a pinch of salt and lime.
Mix the peanut sauce: Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, rice vinegar, and chili-garlic sauce. Add warm water, a tablespoon at a time, until smooth and dippable.
Make the nuoc cham (optional): Stir fish sauce, water, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili until the sugar dissolves.
Set up a rolling station: Fill a large shallow dish or pie plate with warm water. Lay out a clean cutting board, a damp kitchen towel, and all fillings within reach.
Soften the wrapper: Dip one rice paper wrapper into warm water for 5–10 seconds.
Remove while it still feels slightly firm; it will continue softening on the board.
Layer the fillings: Place a leaf of lettuce near the bottom third of the wrapper. Top with a small handful of noodles, a few strips of veggies, protein, herbs, and a couple avocado slices. Don’t overfill.
Roll it up: Fold the bottom edge over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll forward tightly like a burrito.
The wrapper will seal itself.
Repeat and garnish: Continue with remaining wrappers. Sprinkle finished rolls with sesame seeds if you like. Serve with peanut sauce and nuoc cham on the side.