Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy & Refreshing: The toasted ramen noodles and fresh cabbage give this salad the perfect crisp texture.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and a quick homemade dressing, this salad comes together in no time.
- Great for Gatherings: This dish is perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 packs of uncooked ramen noodles, crumbled
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Toast the Ramen and Nuts
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the crumbled ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds on a baking sheet.
- Toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Set aside until ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, toasted ramen mixture, and chopped green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: Toss in shredded chicken or grilled shrimp for a more filling meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Fruit Twist: Add mandarin oranges for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Crunch Tip: If making ahead, keep the toasted noodles and dressing separate until just before serving to maintain crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes! Napa cabbage or a mix of red and green cabbage works great for extra color and flavor.
What can I use instead of almonds?
You can substitute almonds with chopped pecans, walnuts, or cashews.
Can I use instant ramen seasoning packets?
It’s best to make the homemade dressing, but if you prefer, you can use part of the seasoning packet for extra flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the toasted ramen separate and add the dressing just before serving to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp texture, tangy dressing, and delicious mix of ingredients, this salad will quickly become a go-to recipe. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, crunchy bite!
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish made with crisp cabbage, toasted ramen noodles, nuts, and a tangy-sweet dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a light side dish, this easy salad comes together in just 20 minutes. The combination of crunchy textures and bold flavors makes it an irresistible favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 packs of uncooked ramen noodles, crumbled
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Toast the Ramen and Nuts:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the crumbled ramen noodles, sliced almonds, and sunflower seeds on a baking sheet.
- Toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Let cool.
-
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Set aside until ready to use.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, toasted ramen mixture, and chopped green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
-
Serve:
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch.