Description
This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining toasted ramen noodles, fresh coleslaw mix, and a tangy-sweet Asian-inspired dressing. With toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, and fresh herbs, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that’s perfect as a refreshing side or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 packages (3 oz each) ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and red cabbage, and carrots)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey (or sugar)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Toast Ramen Noodles: Break the uncooked ramen noodles into small pieces and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until they become lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and allow them to cool completely.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, cooled toasted ramen noodles, toasted sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, thinly sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro. Mix gently to combine all components evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), and sesame oil until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crunch, or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit almonds and sunflower seeds or substitute with pumpkin seeds.
- Use honey for a natural sweetness or sugar as an alternative based on preference.
- Serve immediately for crunchiest texture; refrigeration softens the noodles slightly but enhances flavor melding.
- This salad makes a great side dish for grilled meats or as a light vegetarian meal.
