Description
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a delightful Asian-inspired salad combining toasted ramen noodles, nuts, and seeds with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful sesame dressing. This salad is perfect as a light side dish or can be easily turned into a main with added protein. It features a satisfying crunch and a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, ideal for potlucks, summer meals, or quick lunches.
Ingredients
Scale
Crunchy Topping
- 2 packages uncooked ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup unsalted sunflower seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Salad
- 4 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
Dressing
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Noodles: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Break the ramen noodles into small pieces and spread them evenly on a baking sheet along with the sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds if using. Dot the butter in small pieces over the top to ensure even melting and flavor. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the mixture is golden brown and toasted. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, and shredded carrots. Toss these fresh vegetables together to distribute evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, vegetable or sesame oil, sugar, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well blended.
- Assemble the Salad: Just before serving, pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat all the vegetables with the dressing. Then add the cooled toasted noodle and seed mixture and toss gently again to combine everything well while maintaining the crunch.
Notes
- For a sweet and tangy twist, add mandarin orange segments or dried cranberries.
- To turn this salad into a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp just before serving.
- Always toss in the toasted noodle mixture right before serving to keep it crunchy and avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
