Ramen Noodle Salad

Ramen Noodle Salad is a crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or an easy weeknight dinner. With toasted ramen noodles, shredded cabbage, green onions, and a flavorful Asian-inspired dressing, this salad brings together texture and taste in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ramen Noodle Salad is not only quick to whip up but also endlessly customizable. It’s a fresh, no-fuss option that balances crisp veggies with a tangy-sweet dressing and the irresistible crunch of toasted ramen. It travels well, serves a crowd, and is always a hit at gatherings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be made ahead of time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ramen noodles (uncooked, crumbled)
• Shredded cabbage (green or coleslaw mix)
• Green onions, sliced
• Slivered almonds
• Sunflower seeds (optional)
• Butter or oil (for toasting)
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sugar
• Sesame oil
• Olive oil

directions

1. Crush the ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet) and toast them in a skillet with a bit of butter or oil until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, slivered almonds, and sunflower seeds if using.
3. In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the dressing ingredients: soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and olive oil.
4. Just before serving, add the toasted ramen noodles to the salad mixture.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or let it sit for a few minutes if you prefer slightly softened noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings and takes about 15 minutes to prepare. No cooking time is required aside from toasting the noodles, which takes about 5 minutes.

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
• Vegetarian version: Ensure all dressings are free of animal products, or use plant-based alternatives.
• Spicy kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Fruity twist: Toss in mandarin orange segments or diced mango for a sweet contrast.
• Nuts & seeds: Swap almonds with cashews or add chia seeds for added texture and nutrients.

storage/reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the noodles will soften over time and lose their crunch. For best results, store the toasted noodles and dressing separately and mix just before serving. This salad does not require reheating.

FAQs

What kind of ramen noodles should I use?

Use the inexpensive instant ramen noodles typically found in the soup aisle. Discard the seasoning packet, as it’s not needed for this recipe.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep all components in advance—toast the noodles, mix the salad base, and prepare the dressing. Just store them separately and combine right before serving.

How do I keep the noodles crunchy?

To keep the noodles crunchy, don’t add them to the salad until just before serving. Moisture from the dressing will soften them quickly.

Is this salad served hot or cold?

Ramen Noodle Salad is best served cold or at room temperature.

Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?

Absolutely. A bagged coleslaw mix works perfectly and saves time on chopping.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free ramen noodles and substitute tamari for soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sugar in the dressing?

Honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like Stevia can be used to sweeten the dressing.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

When assembled, it’s best eaten the same day. If stored separately, the ingredients can last up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze Ramen Noodle Salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh vegetables and noodles won’t retain their texture once thawed.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu all complement the flavors of this salad.

Conclusion

Ramen Noodle Salad is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that suits almost any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a backyard BBQ or just need a quick, satisfying side, this salad delivers crunch, color, and a punch of flavor. With endless customization options, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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