Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw: A Refreshing Delight!

Name: Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw: A Refreshing Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 packs of ramen noodles; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup sliced green onions; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1/4 cup slivered almonds; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Posted on June 20, 2025

Salads

Difficulty

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Cooking time

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Introduction to Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I absolutely adore this Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw. It’s not just a salad; it’s a vibrant, crunchy delight that comes together in a flash! Perfect for those hectic days when you want something light yet satisfying, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s a refreshing solution that brings joy to the table without the fuss. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

This Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw is a game-changer for busy days. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. The combination of crunchy veggies and savory noodles creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Trust me, this salad will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ramen noodles: The star of the show! They add a delightful chewiness and soak up the dressing beautifully.
Shredded cabbage: This adds crunch and a pop of color. You can use green or purple cabbage for variety.
Shredded carrots: Sweet and vibrant, they bring a lovely texture and a hint of sweetness to the salad.
Sliced green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish.
Chopped cilantro: A burst of freshness! If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a great substitute.
Slivered almonds: For a nutty crunch, these are perfect. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Sesame seeds: These tiny seeds pack a punch of flavor and add a lovely visual appeal.
Soy sauce: The base of our dressing, it brings a savory umami flavor that ties everything together.
Rice vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances the richness of the salad.
Vegetable oil: A neutral oil that helps to blend the dressing smoothly.
Sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavors and enhance the dressing’s sweetness.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way! It adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch. If you want to make this salad a complete meal, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or tofu. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw. Each step is simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end!

Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles

Start by boiling water in a pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the ramen noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually just about 3-5 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy!

After cooking, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This step is crucial! Rinsing stops the cooking process and helps prevent the noodles from sticking together. Trust me, you want that perfect texture for your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Asian Slaw

While the noodles cool, grab a large bowl and toss in the shredded cabbage, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Fresh ingredients are key here! They not only add vibrant colors but also pack in nutrients.

Mixing these veggies creates a crunchy base that pairs beautifully with the noodles. Feel free to get creative! Add bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra crunch. The more, the merrier!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, and sesame oil. This dressing is where the magic happens! Each ingredient plays a role in balancing flavors.

As you whisk, imagine how the savory soy sauce mingles with the tangy vinegar. It’s a flavor explosion that will elevate your salad. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely for a smooth finish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooled ramen noodles to the bowl with the slaw. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together.

Be careful not to break the noodles! You want them to stay intact while soaking up all that delicious dressing. This is where the salad truly comes to life, so mix until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Once combined, cover the salad and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s like a mini vacation for your salad!

When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick toss again. This Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw is best enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing dish for any occasion. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Always rinse the noodles after cooking to keep them from clumping.
Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Make the dressing ahead of time for a quicker prep!

Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling noodles (a saucepan works too).
Colander for draining noodles.
Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
Whisk for making the dressing (a fork can do the trick).
Measuring cups for accurate ingredient portions.

Variations of Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for heat.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free ramen noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh mint or basil for a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions for Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Serve alongside crispy spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced green tea for a refreshing drink.
Garnish with extra sesame seeds and cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

FAQs about Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw

Can I make Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the veggies stay crisp and fresh!

What can I substitute for ramen noodles?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using soba noodles or even rice noodles. They’ll still give you that delightful texture while keeping the dish light and refreshing.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers, and it’ll last for a few days in the fridge. Just remember to add the dressing right before eating!

Can I add protein to this salad?

<pDefinitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are fantastic additions. They’ll make the salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing. It’ll give your Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw a delightful kick!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Ramen Noodle Salad with Asian Slaw is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Each crunchy bite is a reminder that healthy meals can be quick and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. I love how it adapts to my family’s tastes, making it a versatile staple. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this refreshing dish—it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen!