If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with flavor and texture, this Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a must-try. It’s a delightful mix of crisp cabbage, toasted almonds, and perfectly seasoned ramen noodles, all tossed together in a tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for any gathering or as a refreshing meal on its own. Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare!
Steps
- Begin by breaking the ramen noodles into small pieces and set aside. Reserve the seasoning packets for the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, chopped green onions, and toasted almonds. Mix them together to ensure even distribution.
- Toast the broken ramen noodles and sesame seeds in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- For the dressing, whisk together the reserved ramen seasoning packets, vinegar, sugar, and oil. Adjust sugar to taste for a balanced flavor.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture, and toss until everything is well coated. Add the toasted noodle mixture and combine again.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately for a fresher taste. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 package ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (or substitute with napa cabbage)
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or substitute with white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I use the seasoning packets that come with ramen noodles in this salad?
- Yes, the recipe includes using the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles, which adds flavor to the salad.
- Should I let the salad sit for the flavors to develop or serve it immediately?
- The original recipe does not specify, but allowing the salad to sit might enhance the cohesiveness of the flavors. However, it can be served immediately if preferred.
- What can I do if I find the salad too oily?
- You might consider reducing the amount of oil used in the dressing to suit your taste.
- Can I substitute any ingredients to adjust the flavor balance?
- Yes, you can substitute napa cabbage for the coleslaw mix and use rice wine vinegar instead of white vinegar. Adding a bit more sugar can also help balance the flavors better.
- What gives the salad its crunch?
- The salad gets its crunch from the topping made of ramen noodles, sesame seeds, and almonds.
Tips
- Consider letting the salad sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld together for a more cohesive taste experience.
- To balance the tanginess of the vinegar, add a bit more sugar to the dressing according to your taste preference.
- Substitute napa cabbage for the coleslaw mix for a different texture and flavor that might better suit your tastes.
- Use rice wine vinegar instead of white vinegar for a milder, more nuanced acidity in the dressing.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork (for mixing dressing)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Large Salad Tongs or Spoon (for tossing the salad)
- Baking Sheet (for toasting almonds and noodles)
- Skillet or Pan (optional, for toasting almonds and noodles if preferred over baking)
