Ramen Noodle Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 package (3 oz / 85 g) instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
• 4 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Break the dry ramen noodles into small pieces.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the ramen pieces, almonds, and sesame seeds for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, carrots, and green onions.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and garlic.
5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to combine.
6. Just before serving, stir in the toasted ramen mixture to maintain maximum crunch.
7. Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Add shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or edamame for extra protein.
• Mix in mandarin oranges for a sweet, refreshing twist.
• Keep the toasted noodles separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
• Use red cabbage for extra color and nutrients.
• Double the recipe for potlucks and family gatherings.

Additional Information

Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.
• Perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
• Great make-ahead dish for parties and meal prep.
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins.

Flavor Variations

• Asian Chicken Ramen Salad: Add shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Spicy Ramen Salad: Stir sriracha or chili flakes into the dressing.
• Thai-Inspired Version: Add peanuts, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Vegetarian Version: Add edamame and extra vegetables.
• Sesame Ginger Version: Add fresh grated ginger to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, ribs, or salmon.
• Serve at picnics, barbecues, and holiday gatherings.
• Enjoy as a light lunch with added protein.
• Use as a crunchy side dish for Asian-inspired meals.

🥗🍜 This Ramen Noodle Salad is crisp, refreshing, and packed with texture, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.