Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Ramen Noodle Salad

This isn’t just another salad recipe; it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. The combination of crunchy ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

• Incredible Flavor: The homemade dressing, infused with the savory seasoning packet from the ramen noodles, adds a unique and irresistible umami flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have many of the ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite proteins and toppings.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare individual portions ahead of time for convenient and healthy lunches or dinners.
• A Fun Twist on Salads: Ideal for those who aren’t typically fans of traditional salads.

This ramen noodle salad is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. It’s a fantastic way to get your daily dose of vegetables while enjoying a satisfying and delicious meal. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at potlucks and gatherings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and flavorful salad!

Ingredients for Classic Ramen Noodle Salad

Salad Ingredients:

• Ramen Noodles: 2 (3 oz) packages of chicken-flavored ramen noodles, crushed. Reserve one seasoning packet for the dressing.
• Sunflower Seeds: ⅓ cup of raw sunflower seeds for a salty, crunchy addition.
• Slivered Almonds: ⅓ cup of slivered almonds for added flavor and nutritional benefits. Feel free to omit if you prefer.
• Coleslaw Mix: 1 (16 oz) bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) or broccoli slaw.
• Green Onions: 3 green onions, sliced, for a fresh and flavorful touch.

Dressing Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: ½ cup of olive oil as a base for the dressing.
• White Vinegar: 3 tablespoons of white vinegar for a tangy flavor. Apple cider vinegar can also be used.
• White Sugar: 1 tablespoon of white sugar to balance the flavors.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt to enhance the taste.
• Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper for a hint of spice.
• Ramen Seasoning Packet: 1 ramen seasoning packet, reserved from the noodles, for that signature ramen flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that make this salad truly special. The combination of crunchy noodles, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to customize the salad to your liking. For example, you could add sesame seeds, mandarin oranges, or toasted almonds for extra flavor and crunch.

How to Make Classic Ramen Noodle Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this ramen noodle salad is incredibly easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a salad that’s sure to impress:

Step 1: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, white sugar, salt, ground black pepper, and the reserved ramen seasoning packet.
2. Continue whisking until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed ramen noodles, raw sunflower seeds, slivered almonds, coleslaw mix (or broccoli slaw), and sliced green onions.
2. Toss all the ingredients together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Dress and Serve

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Stir gently until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
3. Serve immediately for maximum crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, refrigerate for up to 5 hours. Note that the noodles will start to soften after about 5 hours.

And there you have it – a delicious and crunchy ramen noodle salad that’s ready to be enjoyed! This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck with friends. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit with everyone.

How to Store This Delicious Salad Recipe

To maintain the perfect crunch and flavor of your ramen noodle salad, proper storage is key:

• Refrigerator: For optimal results, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you plan to store it for longer than 5 hours, it’s best to keep the ramen noodles separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Meal Prep: To meal prep this salad, layer the ingredients in a mason jar. Start with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the coleslaw mix (without the ramen), and top with the crushed ramen noodles. When ready to eat, simply flip the jar and shake to combine.

Proper storage ensures that your salad remains fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it immediately or saving it for later. Keep in mind that the texture of the noodles may change over time, so it’s best to consume the salad within a few hours of dressing.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to ensure your ramen noodle cabbage salad is a culinary masterpiece:

Choosing the Right Salad Base:

For the best texture and flavor, use a bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots) or broccoli slaw. These mixes provide a great base of fresh, crunchy vegetables.

Topping Ideas for Extra Crunch and Flavor:

• Sesame Seeds: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
• Toasted Almonds: Toast the slivered almonds for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Mandarin Oranges: Add segments of mandarin oranges for a touch of sweetness and a burst of citrus flavor.

Adding Protein for a Complete Meal:

Easily turn this salad into a full meal by adding a protein source. Rotisserie chicken is a great option – simply shred the chicken and mix it into the salad.

Other protein additions include:

• Grilled chicken
• Shrimp
• Tofu
• Edamame

With these simple additions, you can transform a side dish into a satisfying and nutritious meal.

More Side Dish Recipes to Explore

If you enjoyed this ramen noodle salad, here are some other delicious side dish recipes to try:

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

A flavorful pasta salad inspired by Italian grinder sandwiches.

Pepperoni Mozzarella Pasta Salad

A kid-friendly pasta salad with pepperoni, mozzarella, and a zesty dressing.

Egg Roll in a Bowl

A deconstructed egg roll that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Pizza Rolls – Roll Dough Recipe

Homemade pizza rolls using a simple roll dough recipe.

Streamline Your Dinner Routine with These Quick Links

Making dinner easy is essential for busy families. Here are some resources to help you plan and prepare delicious meals with ease:

• Family meal plans
• Tools for the kitchen and more
• The best cookbook for family dinner recipes
• FREE budget meal plan
• Cooking videos to watch

By utilizing these resources, you can save time, reduce stress, and enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals with your family every night.