Ramen Noodle Salad: A Crunchy, Flavor-Packed Delight

When you think of ramen noodles, a steaming bowl of savory broth and slurp-worthy noodles might come to mind. But did you know that ramen noodles can also make a delightful addition to a refreshing salad? Enter Ramen Noodle Salad, a vibrant, crunchy dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

This salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and quick weekday meals. Packed with crisp vegetables, toasted ramen noodles, and a tangy-sweet dressing, it delivers a symphony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a salad enthusiast or just looking for a new way to enjoy ramen noodles, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)

• 1 cup shredded green cabbage

• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds

• 1/2 cup edamame (optional, for added protein)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for a fresh kick)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Break apart the ramen noodles into small pieces. Spread them on a baking sheet along with the sliced almonds and sunflower seeds. Toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, Dijon mustard, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbages, carrots, green onions, and edamame. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Add the Crunch

Just before serving, mix in the toasted ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds to retain their crunch.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro and serve immediately for the best texture. If preparing ahead of time, store the salad and dressing separately, adding the crunchy elements just before serving.

Why You'll Love This Ramen Noodle Salad

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes.

• Crunchy and Flavorful: The combination of crispy noodles, nuts, seeds, and fresh veggies creates an irresistible texture.

• Customizable: You can add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meal.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Store the dressing and crunchy toppings separately, and you’ll have a fresh salad ready anytime.

• Versatile: Serve it as a side dish at summer barbecues or enjoy it as a light main course.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Salad in Advance?

Yes! If you want to prepare it ahead of time, store the dressing separately and toss it in just before serving. Also, keep the toasted ramen noodles and nuts aside until you're ready to eat to maintain their crispiness.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Ramen Noodles?

If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the ramen noodles with crispy quinoa, crushed tortilla chips, or toasted pita chips.

3. How Long Does This Salad Last?

The dressed salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crunchy elements will soften over time, so consider keeping them separate until serving.

4. Can I Make This Salad Vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. Everything else in the recipe is plant-based.

5. Can I Add Protein to This Salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even crispy chickpeas make excellent additions if you want to turn this salad into a full meal.

6. Can I Use Packaged Coleslaw Mix Instead of Shredding Cabbage?

Yes, a pre-packaged coleslaw mix can be a great time-saving option while still providing the same crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Ramen Noodle Salad is the perfect blend of crunch, flavor, and freshness. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether you're making it for a party, lunch, or a light dinner, this salad will satisfy your cravings while offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Give it a try and let us know how you like it! Happy cooking!