Description
A light and refreshing Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad packed with crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, toasted ramen, and nutty seeds, all tossed in a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. Perfect as a vibrant side dish or quick meal.
Ingredients
2 packs instant ramen noodles (seasoning discarded)
2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Break the ramen noodles into small pieces. Toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- In the same pan, toast the slivered almonds and sunflower seeds separately for a few minutes until lightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, toasted ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or sugar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated. Let the salad rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld while maintaining crunch.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For added protein, mix in shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, baked tofu, or edamame.
For extra crunch, add crispy wonton strips before serving.
Swap almonds for cashews or peanuts if preferred.
To make gluten free, use gluten-free ramen noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best texture, store dressing separately and toss before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg