Delicious Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
This ramen noodle salad recipe is filled with crunchy ramen noodles, colorful veggies, and a tangy dressing. It’s a delicious cookout side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
- Three Types of Crunch: Enjoy the blend of crunchy cabbage, carrots, delicate toasted ramen noodles, and hearty nuts and seeds.
- Packed with Flavor: The homemade sesame orange dressing, along with green onions and cilantro, enhances the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Perfect for cookouts; prepare the colorful base a day in advance but add the ramen noodles just before serving.
Ramen Noodle Salad Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this ramen noodle salad recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Instant ramen noodles | 1 (2.25-ounce) package, broken into pieces |
| Blanched slivered almonds | ⅓ cup |
| Sunflower seeds or peanuts | ⅓ cup |
| Sesame seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Neutral oil | for drizzling |
| Garlic powder | to taste |
| Sea salt | to taste |
| Shredded napa cabbage | 6 cups |
| Shredded red cabbage | 2 cups |
| Shredded carrots | 1 cup |
| Mandarin oranges | 2, peeled and segmented |
| Chopped green onions | ½ cup |
| Chopped fresh cilantro | ½ cup |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Ramen Noodle Salad
- Prepare the Crunchy Mixture: Break the noodles into pieces, mix with nuts and seeds, season with oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Make the Dressing: Combine dressing ingredients in a bowl or jar; whisk or shake to mix.
- Assemble the Salad: Toss all veggies with most of the dressing, add half the crunchy mixture, toss again, and top with remaining crunchy mix.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To Make Ahead: Assemble the salad without the ramen mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Keep the ramen mixture at room temperature.
To Store: Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the noodles will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
This ramen noodle salad is not just a delicious dish, but it also offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or a potluck, this salad is sure to impress your guests!
FAQs
- Can I make this salad gluten-free? Yes! Omit the noodles and increase the almond and peanut measurements to 1/2 cup, using certified gluten-free tamari in the dressing.
- What’s the best way to store leftover salad? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The texture is best when served fresh.
- Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or broccoli.