Ramen Noodle Salad
Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish that combines crunch, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia? Ramen Noodle Salad is the perfect solution. This vibrant salad brings together the heartiness of ramen noodles with the freshness of cabbage and a delightful crunch from slivered almonds and sesame seeds. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad is about to become your go-to recipe.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Ramen Noodle Salad has received rave reviews from home cooks for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking skills and a short list of ingredients. With the noodles, cabbage, and a few pantry staples, you can whip this dish up in no time. The combination of textures—from the crisp napa cabbage to the crunchy almonds and chewy ramen—creates an enjoyable eating experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the flavor profile is versatile; you can easily customize it by adding proteins or other vegetables. This salad is not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can stand alone as a main course.
Shopping List
To create this delicious Ramen Noodle Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 bags ramen noodles (broken up)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 large head napa cabbage
- 2 packs ramen noodle seasoning (chicken flavored)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vinegar
Gear Checklist
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowl: For tossing all your ingredients together.
- Whisk: To blend the dressing smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the cabbage.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Serving bowl: To present your beautiful salad.
Ramen Noodle Salad — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by breaking up the ramen noodles into smaller pieces. You can do this by placing the unopened bags on a flat surface and gently hitting them with a rolling pin or your hands.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts and Seeds
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the slivered almonds and sesame seeds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch to your salad.
Step 3: Chop the Cabbage
While the nuts and seeds are toasting, take your large head of napa cabbage and slice it into thin strips. Aim for consistency to ensure even distribution in the salad.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, sugar, vinegar, and the contents of the ramen noodle seasoning packets. Use a whisk to combine the ingredients until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well-blended.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broken ramen noodles, toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and chopped napa cabbage. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
For optimal flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and watch as everyone digs in!
Swap Guide
If you want to customize your Ramen Noodle Salad even further, consider these swaps:
- Use mixed nuts instead of slivered almonds for a different crunch.
- Swap napa cabbage for green cabbage or kale for a twist on texture and flavor.
- Add shredded carrots for an extra pop of color and sweetness.
- Incorporate grilled chicken or tofu for a protein-packed version.
Problems & Prevention
While Ramen Noodle Salad is generally foolproof, here are a few tips to ensure success:
- Don’t overcook the ramen noodles; they should remain slightly firm to maintain texture.
- Toast the nuts and seeds carefully to avoid burning them. Keep an eye on them as they can quickly go from golden to burnt.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste; if you prefer a tangier salad, add a bit more vinegar.
- Keep the salad refrigerated until you are ready to serve to maintain its freshness.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
One of the best features of Ramen Noodle Salad is how well it holds up over time. Here are some tips for meal prep:
You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the noodles and cabbage from becoming soggy. If you choose to add protein, like grilled chicken or tofu, consider marinating it overnight for added flavor.
Handy Q&A
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen noodles are traditional for this salad, you can substitute them with other types of noodles such as soba or rice noodles. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.
How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again.
Is this salad gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free ramen noodles. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that maintain a similar texture and flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you love. Bell peppers, green onions, or snap peas can enhance the salad and add even more color and crunch.
Try These Next
If you enjoyed this Ramen Noodle Salad, you might also love these recipes:
Ready to Cook?
Get your ingredients ready, gather your kitchen tools, and prepare to dive into a bowl of flavorful Ramen Noodle Salad. This dish is more than just a salad; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process, the flavors, and the compliments that will surely come your way!
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Ramen Noodle Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Noodles - Break up the ramen noodles into smaller pieces by placing the unopened bags on a flat surface and gently hitting them with a rolling pin or your hands.
- Step 2: Toast the Nuts and Seeds - In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the slivered almonds and sesame seeds. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- Step 3: Chop the Cabbage - While the nuts and seeds are toasting, slice the napa cabbage into thin strips.
- Step 4: Make the Dressing - In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, sugar, vinegar, and the contents of the ramen noodle seasoning packets. Whisk until well-blended.
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the broken ramen noodles, toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and chopped napa cabbage. Pour the dressing over and toss until well coated.
- Step 6: Chill and Serve - Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Notes
- Prepare the salad a day in advance, keeping the dressing separate until serving.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste for more tanginess by adding extra vinegar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
