Irresistible Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe for Every Occasion
There’s something so comforting about a crunchy, colorful salad that brings everyone together. Ramen Noodle Salad is one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a potluck, a picnic in the park, or simply a cozy family dinner at home. The delightful combination of textures and flavors makes this salad a favorite among friends and family alike. With its sweet and tangy dressing and the satisfying crunch of ramen noodles, you might just find yourself making it on repeat!
What I love most about this Ramen Noodle Salad is how easy it is to whip up in just 15 minutes. It’s not only quick but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it as a side dish or even as a light main course. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
– Crunchy goodness: The combination of ramen noodles, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds gives every bite a satisfying crunch.
– Flavor-packed: The sweet and tangy dressing elevates the simple ingredients into something truly special.
– Versatile: Enjoy it as a side or make it the star of your meal with added proteins or veggies.
– Crowd-pleaser: This salad is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant Ramen Noodle Salad.
For the Salad
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 ounce package ramen noodles, seasoning packet removed
– 1/2 cup slivered almonds
– 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1 1/2 lbs Napa cabbage, about 8-10 cups shredded
– 1 bunch green onions, sliced thin, about 1/2 cup
For the Dressing
– 1/2 cup light flavored olive oil
– 1/4 cup plain white vinegar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
Variations
One of the best things about salads is their flexibility! You can easily customize this Ramen Noodle Salad to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.
– Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for an extra boost of nutrition.
– Include more veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can add even more color and crunch.
– Make it spicy: A drizzle of sriracha or red pepper flakes can bring some heat to the salad.
– Swap out nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, try cashews or sunflower seeds for different flavors.
How to Make Ramen Noodle Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
To start off this delightful salad, you’ll want to create the dressing first. Combine the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and low-sodium soy sauce in a jar. Shake it well until the sugar dissolves completely. This step is essential because it sets the flavor foundation for your salad.
Step 2: Toast the Noodles and Nuts
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s melting, crush the ramen noodles while they’re still in their package—this helps save on cleanup! Once melted, add the crushed noodles along with slivered almonds and sesame seeds to the skillet. Sauté them while stirring frequently until they turn golden brown. This step adds that irresistible crunch to your salad.
Step 3: Combine Vegetables
Next up is shredding that beautiful Napa cabbage—it’s what makes this salad so vibrant! In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with sliced green onions. These fresh ingredients will add both color and flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Now that everything is prepared, it’s time for assembly! Add the toasted noodle mixture into the bowl with cabbage and onions. Pour that delicious dressing over everything and toss well to combine all those flavors. Finish by sprinkling some extra green onions on top for garnish before serving immediately.
Enjoy this delightful Ramen Noodle Salad at your next gathering or simply as a refreshing side dish during dinner—you won’t regret it!
Pro Tips for Making Ramen Noodle Salad
Making Ramen Noodle Salad is not only fun, but it also allows for a lot of creativity! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your salad game and ensure it turns out perfectly every time.
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh Napa cabbage and green onions make a huge difference in flavor and texture. Try to source the freshest produce you can find for the best results.
– Customize the crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy elements like sunflower seeds or chopped peanuts for a delightful twist. This will give your salad even more texture and flavor!
– Let it chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
– Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the sugar slightly. You can always taste as you mix to find that perfect balance for your palate.
– Make it colorful: Adding shredded carrots or bell peppers can brighten up your salad visually and nutritionally. A pop of color always makes for a more inviting dish!
How to Serve Ramen Noodle Salad
Presentation is key when serving food! Ramen Noodle Salad is both tasty and visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.
Garnishes
– Sesame seeds: Sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
– Sliced radishes: Add a few slices of radish for color and a peppery bite.
– Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can complement the flavors nicely.
Side Dishes
– Grilled chicken skewers: Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers for a satisfying protein addition.
– Vegetable spring rolls: These light bites pair well with the salad’s crunchiness.
– Edamame: Steamed edamame provides a healthy, protein-packed side to round out your meal.
– Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can offer a comforting contrast to the coolness of the salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prep just got easier with this delicious Ramen Noodle Salad! Whether you’re planning a gathering or simply want leftovers, here’s how to store and enjoy your salad later.
Storing Leftovers
– Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
– Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve if you want to maintain that crispy noodle texture.
Freezing
– While it’s not ideal to freeze this salad due to its crunchy components, if you must freeze leftovers, do so without dressing or garnishes.
– Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use airtight containers, but consume within one month for best quality.
Reheating
– Since this is served cold, there’s no need to reheat. Simply toss with fresh dressing before serving if needed!
FAQs
If you have questions about making Ramen Noodle Salad, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help clarify things.
Can I use regular pasta instead of ramen noodles?
Yes! If you’re looking for an alternative, any quick-cooking pasta can be used in place of ramen noodles; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Sure! Look for gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles as a substitute. Just check labels carefully!
Can I add proteins like chicken or tofu?
Absolutely! Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu cubes for added protein. Just toss them in when mixing everything together.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited about making Ramen Noodle Salad as I am! It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for gatherings or enjoying all week long. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients until you find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
Ramen Noodle Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and low-sodium soy sauce in a jar. Shake it well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Crush the ramen noodles while they're still in their package. Add the crushed noodles, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds to the skillet. Sauté until golden brown.
- Shred the Napa cabbage and combine it with sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the toasted noodle mixture into the bowl with cabbage and onions. Pour the dressing over everything and toss well to combine. Garnish with extra green onions before serving.
