Description
This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining toasted ramen noodles with fresh coleslaw mix and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or side, this salad offers a delightful crunch and a balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors infused with sesame and soy. It’s quick to prepare and ideal for gatherings or a refreshing everyday meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 2 packages (3 oz each) ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and red cabbage, and carrots)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey (or sugar)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Toast the ramen noodles: Break the uncooked ramen noodles into small pieces and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from heat and let them cool completely to ensure maximum crunch in the salad.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, cooled toasted ramen noodles, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, thinly sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro for a colorful and crunchy base.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), and sesame oil until the ingredients are fully emulsified and the dressing is smooth and flavorful.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the crunch at its best, or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to come together for a more mellow taste.
Notes
- To enhance the crunch, toast the ramen noodles just before assembling the salad.
- Honey can be substituted with sugar for a more neutral sweetness.
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken, tofu, or edamame.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be kept refrigerated for up to one day; noodles may soften over time.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity for salt preference or substitute with tamari for gluten-free option.
