Ramen Salad with Cabbage is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the satisfying chew of ramen noodles. This salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful, thanks to a delightful dressing that ties all the ingredients together. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this salad offers a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Ramen Salad recipe for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The crispness of the cabbage, the chewiness of the ramen noodles, and the crunch of toasted nuts create an exciting eating experience. It’s easy to prepare, requiring no cooking skills beyond boiling water for the noodles, making it accessible for everyone. Plus, it fits well within various diets as it can be easily modified to suit vegan or gluten-free needs, making it a go-to dish for gatherings or meal prepping.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Ramen Salad, consider these tips and tricks:
- For added flavor, let the dressing sit for at least 30 minutes before tossing it with the salad to allow the ingredients to meld together.
- Toast the ramen noodles before cooking them for a nuttier flavor. Simply sauté them in a dry skillet until golden brown.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and crunch.
- If you’re short on time, buy pre-shredded cabbage and pre-cooked ramen noodles to speed up the preparation process.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The ramen noodles can also be cooked ahead of time; just ensure you rinse them with cold water to keep them from sticking. Chop the cabbage and other vegetables a day in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble everything just before serving for the freshest taste.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Ramen Salad! Consider these variations:
- Swap out the cabbage for kale or a mixed greens salad for a different flavor profile.
- Add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Change up the dressing by adding a spicy element with sriracha or switching to a sesame dressing for a different flavor.
- For a crunchy twist, add crispy wonton strips or sunflower seeds.
How to Serve
To serve your Ramen Salad, present it in a large bowl or individual plates. Drizzle with extra dressing and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. Garnish with a lime wedge for an extra zesty kick!
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Ramen Salad with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the salad’s fresh flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling iced tea or ginger ale works beautifully. Complement the meal with side dishes such as edamame, miso soup, or a fruit salad for a light and refreshing experience.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, store the dressing separately and mix only when ready to eat. While the noodles can be frozen, the cabbage will lose its crunch, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Equipment Needed
You won’t need any special equipment for this recipe, just a pot for boiling water, a mixing bowl, and a whisk for the dressing. If you prefer, a food processor can make quick work of chopping vegetables, but a sharp knife will do just fine.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, use a plant-based dressing and skip any animal protein. To make it gluten-free, opt for rice noodles instead of traditional ramen and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. Adjust the recipe according to your dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, add fresh corn or ripe tomatoes for sweetness. In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or apples for a seasonal touch. Seasonal ingredients can enhance your salad’s flavor and keep it exciting year-round!
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A: Yes! You can use any noodle you prefer, such as soba or rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
Q: How long does this salad last?
A: The salad is best eaten fresh but can last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly.
Q: Can I make this salad spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add sriracha or chili flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
How To Make Ramen Salad Recipe Cabbage
Ramen Salad Recipe Cabbage
Ramen Salad with Cabbage is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the satisfying chew of ramen noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup toasted peanuts or almonds, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, broccoli (if using), and peanuts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled ramen noodles to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss everything together gently until the noodles and vegetables are coated in the dressing.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 542Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 24gCholesterol 0mgSodium 1091mgCarbohydrates 51gFiber 12gSugar 9gProtein 19g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ramen Salad with cabbage is a delightful, versatile dish that brings together bright flavors and satisfying textures. With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, enjoying it as a weekday lunch, or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, and enjoy making this refreshing dish that will become a staple in your kitchen!
