Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe: A Quick, Crunchy, and Flavorful Delight
If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly dish, look no further than a ramen noodle salad! This salad is an easy-to-make favorite that combines crispy ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, savory dressing. It’s a perfect dish for lunch, potlucks, or even as a side for your favorite grilled meats.
Not only is ramen noodle salad incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable! You can add your choice of proteins, tweak the dressing to suit your taste, and experiment with different vegetables for added crunch and flavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple ramen noodle salad recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking routine.
Ingredients for Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for a basic yet delicious ramen noodle salad:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ramen noodles (without seasoning) | 2 packs | You can use any flavor; discard the seasoning packet. |
| Shredded cabbage | 2 cups | Adds crunch and freshness. |
| Carrot | 1 large, julienned | Adds color and sweetness. |
| Green onions | 2, sliced | For a mild, onion flavor. |
| Almonds | 1/2 cup, slivered | For extra crunch. |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tablespoon | Adds nuttiness and texture. |
For the dressing:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Rice vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey or sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Ginger | 1 teaspoon, grated |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon (optional) |
Step-by-Step Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
1. Prepare the Noodles
- Boil the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, but do not use the seasoning packet (we’ll be making our own dressing). Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. Set aside to drain completely.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). This dressing is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, giving the salad a burst of flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Toppings
- While the noodles are cooling, prepare the vegetables. Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrot, and slice the green onions. Set them aside.
- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown (this step is optional but adds a nice crunch).
- Lightly toast the sesame seeds in the same skillet if desired, for added flavor.
4. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled ramen noodles, shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced green onions. Toss everything together gently.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again, making sure all the ingredients are coated evenly.
5. Top the Salad
- Top the salad with the slivered almonds and sesame seeds. You can also add other toppings like fresh cilantro, grilled chicken, or even edamame for extra protein.
6. Chill and Serve
- You can serve the ramen noodle salad immediately, but for even better flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the dressing to marinate the ingredients.
- Serve cold, and enjoy the crunchy, savory, and flavorful salad!
Tips and Variations for Ramen Noodle Salad
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Grilled chicken thighs work particularly well.
- Make it Spicy: If you like spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a small amount of sriracha sauce to the dressing.
- Try Different Veggies: You can customize this salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado.
- Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey and make sure the soy sauce is plant-based if you’re following a vegan diet.
Why You’ll Love This Ramen Noodle Salad
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something quick and tasty.
- Budget-Friendly: Ramen noodles are affordable, and the ingredients for the salad can be found at most grocery stores, making it a great dish for a tight budget.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer it sweet, spicy, or with more crunch, this ramen noodle salad recipe is flexible and can be tailored to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The salad holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or sides.
Conclusion
This ramen noodle salad recipe is the perfect blend of crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a delicious option for a quick lunch, picnic, or side dish at your next barbecue. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile—so you can tweak the ingredients and dressing to suit your preferences!
Next time you’re in the mood for something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor, whip up this easy ramen noodle salad. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a main dish, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
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