This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish full of texture and flavor. It’s made with simple ingredients like coleslaw mix, toasted almonds, and crunchy ramen noodles, all tossed in a light homemade dressing. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, barbecue, or need a quick side dish for dinner, this salad is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (3 oz each) ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and red cabbage with carrots)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Ramen Noodles
Break the ramen noodles into small pieces. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the broken noodles for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat. Add the toasted ramen noodles and toss again just until combined for maximum crunch.
Tips and Variations
- Make ahead: You can prep the salad and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately and combine right before serving to keep everything crunchy.
- Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or edamame to make it a more filling meal.
- Customize it: Add shredded bell peppers, chopped snap peas, or mandarin oranges for extra flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a great side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or Asian-inspired mains. It also works perfectly as a light lunch or potluck favorite — fresh, fast, and full of flavor.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the noodles may lose their crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a delicious mix of crisp veggies, toasted seeds, and a sweet-savory dressing. It’s a recipe that’s easy to throw together but tastes like you spent hours preparing it. Perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings, or healthy meal prepping — this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
