Ramen Noodle Salad is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines crunchy vegetables with tender ramen noodles in a tangy, flavorful dressing. This cold salad is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch. Its colorful appearance and satisfying crunch make it a crowd-pleaser, while the quick preparation time ensures you can whip it up in no time at all.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Ramen Noodle Salad will win your heart with its delightful medley of flavors and textures. The combination of crispy veggies, savory ramen, and a zesty dressing creates a refreshing experience that bursts with every bite. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also lends itself well to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, ensuring minimal waste while maximizing deliciousness.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Ramen Noodle Salad, consider these handy tips:
- Toast the ramen noodles before adding them to the salad for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even and thin vegetable slices, enhancing the visual appeal.
- Make the dressing in advance and let it chill to allow the flavors to meld before tossing with the salad.
- Experiment with different nuts or seeds for added crunch, such as sunflower seeds or crushed peanuts.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad is perfect for meal prepping! You can cook and cool the ramen noodles a day in advance. Chop your vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Prepare the dressing separately and store it in the fridge; it will keep well for about a week. Just combine everything the day you plan to serve for optimal freshness.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize the Ramen Noodle Salad to your taste:
- Swap out the vegetables according to the season—try adding bell peppers in summer or roasted butternut squash in fall.
- Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it heartier.
- Experiment with different dressings—try a sesame ginger dressing or a spicy peanut sauce for a new twist.
How to Serve
To serve your Ramen Noodle Salad, transfer it to a large, colorful bowl to showcase the vibrant ingredients. Top it with additional sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a pop of color. Pair it with grilled chicken skewers or spring rolls for a complete meal, and consider serving it chilled for maximum refreshment.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled glass of sake or a citrusy iced tea will complement the flavors beautifully. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, consider sparkling water with a squeeze of lime. As for dessert, a light fruit sorbet or a slice of key lime pie will round off the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Store any leftover Ramen Noodle Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The noodles may absorb some dressing, so consider adding a splash of dressing before serving again. It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the vegetables may suffer once thawed.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- A whisk for mixing the dressing
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
- A pot for boiling the ramen noodles
- A colander for draining them
If you don’t have a whisk, a fork or a jar with a lid can work just as well for mixing the dressing!
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, use a vegan-friendly ramen noodle and swap the dressing for a soy sauce-based one without added honey. For nut-free versions, omit any nuts or seeds in the salad and dressing. Gluten-free options are available with gluten-free ramen noodles and tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, opt for fresh cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers for a refreshing salad. In fall, consider adding roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and apple slices for a heartier version. Winter could see you using shredded Brussels sprouts and carrots for added crunch.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use instant ramen noodles? Absolutely! Instant noodles work great; just be sure to follow the cooking instructions and rinse them well after cooking.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? Tamari or coconut aminos are excellent alternatives for those avoiding soy.
- How long does the salad last in the fridge? The Ramen Noodle Salad can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, but enjoy it fresh for the best flavor and texture.
How To Make Ramen Noodle Salad
Ramen Noodle Salad
Ramen Noodle Salad is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines crunchy vegetables with tender ramen noodles in a tangy, flavorful dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas, trimmed
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds or sesame seeds
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, chopped red cabbage, snap peas, and green onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Add the cooled ramen noodles to the bowl and gently mix until everything is well combined.
- Top with toasted almonds or sesame seeds before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy your vibrant Ramen Noodle Salad!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 371Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 0mgSodium 852mgCarbohydrates 43gFiber 9gSugar 7gProtein 13g
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 Noodle Salad is an incredibly versatile dish that brings together fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing in a fun and creative way. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this salad is sure to satisfy. With its easy preparation and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
