Ramen Noodles Salad
Table of Contents
Growing up, one of my fondest memories was gathering around the kitchen table with my family, sharing stories and laughter over simple, delicious meals. There’s something about the comforting crunch of a Ramen Noodles Salad that takes me right back to those cozy evenings. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl — it’s easy to prepare, delightfully crunchy, and refreshingly tangy. It’s no wonder it’s become a beloved staple in my household, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a quick lunch on a busy day.
What makes this Ramen Noodles Salad truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re using beef or oriental flavored ramen, the salad adapts beautifully, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip it up in no time, making it an ideal choice for those days when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. And let’s not forget the joy of sharing a dish that effortlessly brings people together, creating moments of connection and joy.
This salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the happiness that comes from homemade meals. The combination of crunchy ramen noodles, vibrant slaw mix, and a sweet and savory dressing creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. It’s a testament to how a few humble ingredients can transform into something extraordinary, making everyday meals feel like a special occasion.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
Ramen Noodles Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a unique twist with its mix of flavors and textures. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors creates a memorable taste experience. The distinct taste of the ramen seasoning combined with the tangy dressing and fresh slaw creates a dance of flavors on your palate that leaves a lasting impression.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this dish; the straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can create something delicious in under half an hour.
- Versatility: It pairs well with various main dishes or stands alone as a satisfying meal. It’s adaptable for vegetarians by omitting meat-based seasonings, and it can be a light side dish or a main course with added protein like grilled tofu or chicken.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its vibrant presentation and delicious taste make it a hit at potlucks and parties. The colorful array of slaw and crunchy noodles not only pleases the eye but also tempts even the pickiest eaters to try it.
- Cost-Effective: Made with affordable, easily accessible ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With ingredients that are often found in your pantry, such as ramen noodles and soy sauce, it’s an economical way to create a tasty dish without breaking the bank.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful Ramen Noodles Salad, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade snacks:
- Baking Sheet: Essential for toasting almonds to perfection. A good-quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution, which is key to preventing the almonds from burning.
- Medium Bowl: Perfect for whisking the dressing ingredients together. Choose a bowl with a non-slip base to make mixing easy and mess-free.
- Whisk: Helps in blending the dressing smoothly. A small whisk is ideal for emulsifying the oil and vinegar, ensuring a silky consistency.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining all the salad ingredients. Opt for one with high sides to avoid spilling when tossing the salad.
- Measuring Cups: Ensures accuracy when measuring ingredients for the perfect flavor balance. Precise measurements are crucial, especially for the dressing, to achieve the right balance of sweet and tangy.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 14-ounce package prepackaged cole slaw mix
- 1 12-ounce package of prepackaged broccoli slaw mix (we’ve also done it with two broccoli slaw mixes)
- 2 packages of Ramen Noodles (either beef or oriental (now soy sauce) flavor, we’ve used both and like them equally)
- 1/4 cup seeded sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or raw chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Place almonds onto a prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes until almonds are fragrant but not golden. Remove and set aside. Toasting brings out the natural oils and enhances the flavor of the nuts, adding a rich depth to your salad.
- While almonds are baking, make dressing. Combine olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce & sugar into a medium bowl and whisk until sugar is dissolved and well mixed. Set aside. The dressing can be adjusted to taste; try adding a touch of ginger or a splash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
- In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli slaw and coleslaw together. This combination not only adds color but also a variety of textures and nutrients to the salad.
- Before opening the ramen noodle packages, break noodles into small pieces no bigger than 1/2 inch. Open and dump into slaw mix – reserving seasoning packets. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crunch and ensures every bite is infused with the noodle’s flavor.
- Add cooled almonds and sesame seeds to slaw mix and mix well. Incorporating these ingredients while the almonds are still slightly warm can help the flavors meld together.
- Pour reserved seasoning packet contents into your dressing and mix again. This step intensifies the ramen flavor, making the dressing a perfect complement to the crunchy salad.
- Pour entire dressing over slaw mixture and mix well. Toss thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the salad.
- Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. Serve chilled. Allowing the salad to sit helps the flavors to meld and the noodles to soften slightly, absorbing the tangy dressing.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Asian • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 8 minutes • Total Time: 23 minutes • Calories: 250 • Servings: 6
Note: For a nut-free version, simply omit the almonds and sesame seeds, or substitute with sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor without the allergens.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Ramen Noodles Salad not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
- Almonds: Rich in healthy fats and proteins, providing a satisfying crunch. They are also a great source of vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties.
- Olive Oil: Packed with antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It adds a smooth texture to the dressing while keeping it healthy.
- Broccoli Slaw: High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, adding nutritional value. Broccoli is renowned for its cancer-fighting properties and is an excellent source of vitamin C.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a gentle tang, aiding digestion and enhancing flavor. It’s less acidic than other vinegars, making it a perfect salad dressing ingredient.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This salad is a versatile companion to various beverages and dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:
- Grilled Chicken: Complements the savory flavors with a protein boost. The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy, crunchy salad.
- Lemonade: Offers a refreshing contrast to the salad’s tangy dressing. Opt for a lightly sweetened version to balance the salad’s flavors without overpowering them.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the salad’s crisp texture. Try roasting sweet potatoes or bell peppers for a sweet note that complements the savory salad.
- Iced Green Tea: Enhances the Asian-inspired flavors with a cool, soothing sip. Its subtle bitterness can cleanse the palate, making each bite of salad taste fresh and exciting.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To keep your Ramen Noodles Salad fresh and delicious, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The noodles will continue to absorb the dressing, enhancing their flavor but slightly softening their texture. For a refreshing twist on leftovers, add a splash of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro before serving. This will wake up the flavors and add a fresh burst of aroma.
There’s something magical about sharing a homemade meal that brings people closer. This Ramen Noodles Salad not only satisfies the taste buds but also fills the heart with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just yourself, remember that the true joy of cooking lies in the simple act of creating, sharing, and cherishing moments over a lovingly prepared dish. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or loved one into the kitchen, and enjoy the delightful journey of making this Easy Peasy Ramen Noodles Salad together.
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Ramen Noodles Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Place almonds onto a prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes until almonds are fragrant but not golden. Remove and set aside.
- While almonds are baking, make dressing. Combine olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce & sugar into a medium bowl and whisk until sugar is dissolved and well mixed. Set aside.
- In a large bowl mix together the broccoli slaw and coleslaw together.
- Before opening the ramen noodle packages, break noodles into small pieces no bigger than 1/2 inch. Open and dump into slaw mix – reserving seasoning packets.
- Add cooled almonds and sesame seeds to slaw mix and mix well.
- Pour reserved seasoning packet contents into your dressing and mix again.
- Pour entire dressing over slaw mixture and mix well.
- Refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. Serve chilled.
