If you’re searching for a vibrant, irresistibly tasty salad that will steal the show at any gathering, the Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This salad’s magic lies in its delightful combination of crisp broccoli slaw, the unmistakable snap of crushed ramen noodles, and a perfectly balanced dressing that ties everything together with just the right hint of sweetness and tang. It’s fresh, fun, and packed with textures that make every bite an absolute joy. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight side or sharing at a potluck, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and satisfying from the first forkful to the last.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients that each bring unique flavors and textures. From the crunchy seeds to the zingy dressing, everything works beautifully in harmony to create a salad that’s bursting with personality.
- Broccoli slaw mix: The refreshing, crisp base full of color and nutrition.
- Ramen noodles (2 packages): These add an addictive crunch when crushed, giving the salad its signature texture.
- Sliced almonds (1/2 cup): Nutty and crunchy, they elevate the salad’s taste and mouthfeel.
- Sunflower seeds (1/2 cup): Another crunchy element that adds earthiness and healthy fats.
- Green onions (4, thinly sliced): Bright and mild bite that complements the crisp veggies.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): The perfect neutral base for the dressing to carry all flavors.
- Rice vinegar (1/4 cup): Adds the essential tangy lift that brightens the salad.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity and seasoning without overpowering.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): A savory umami punch that deepens the flavor profile.
- Ramen seasoning packets (2): The secret flavor boost that ties the dish together with familiar warmth.
How to Make Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Crunchy Core
Start by pouring the entire bag of broccoli slaw mix into a large bowl. Next, carefully crush the uncooked ramen noodles right in their packages—breaking them into bite-sized crunchy bits before adding them in. Toss in the sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions. This combination of ingredients builds the foundation with a brilliant mix of textures and fresh flavors.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
Grab a small bowl or jar and combine the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and the two ramen seasoning packets. Whisk or shake vigorously until everything is silky, smooth, and well combined. This dressing is the key to giving the slaw its characteristic tang and slightly sweet depth of flavor.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Pour the dressing over the hearty broccoli slaw mixture and toss everything gently but thoroughly. Your goal is an even coating so every bite delivers a perfect blend of crunch and tang. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows the noodles to soften slightly while keeping their delightful crunch and lets all the flavors marry beautifully.
How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes, sprinkle extra sliced almonds or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. A few thinly sliced green onions scattered over the salad add a fresh pop of green and a lovely mild onion aroma that invites you in for the first bite.
Side Dishes
This Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, burgers, or even a hearty sandwich. It adds a refreshing, crunchy contrast to smoky or rich mains, making it a fantastic summer side dish or picnic companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in hollowed-out cabbage leaves or small ramekins for individual portions at a party. For a more substantial meal, toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or tofu to turn it into a vibrant, protein-packed salad bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once combined and dressed, store your Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within a few hours to maintain that signature crunch, but it can last up to 2 days if needed. Ensure the salad is well covered to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy too quickly.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and crispy noodles, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing will cause the texture to suffer and the dressing to separate, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh or stored only in the fridge.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply give it a fresh toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and keep the components crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?
Absolutely! While rice vinegar is traditional and lends a mild tang, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be substituted. Just note they may alter the flavor slightly, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The standard ramen noodles are not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free ramen or substitute with crushed gluten-free rice crackers to maintain the crunch without gluten concerns.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week. Just give it a shake or whisk before using to recombine any settled ingredients.
What if I want a less sweet version of this salad?
No problem! Simply reduce the sugar in the dressing or swap it out for a natural sweetener like honey or a sugar substitute. The salad will still have great balance but with less sweetness.
Can I add proteins to make this a full meal?
Definitely! Shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or tofu cubes make fantastic additions that turn this Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe into a satisfying main dish.
Final Thoughts
There really is something so wonderfully satisfying about the Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe that makes it a standout choice for so many occasions. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with harmonious flavors that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it as a quick side or a delicious potluck contribution, this recipe’s simplicity and delightful crunch make it a must-make. Give it a try soon and watch how fast it disappears!
Print
Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring broccoli slaw, crushed ramen noodles, nuts, and a tangy, sweet dressing. This no-cook dish is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or a quick, satisfying side with a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Mix
- 1 (16 oz) bag broccoli slaw mix
- 2 packages uncooked ramen noodles (chicken or oriental flavor)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Seasoning packets from the 2 packages ramen noodles
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the broccoli slaw mix, then crush the uncooked ramen noodles inside their packaging into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl. Next, incorporate the sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions, mixing gently to combine all dry ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and both ramen seasoning packets until the mixture is smooth and well blended, creating a flavorful dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture, tossing carefully to evenly coat every ingredient with the dressing for balanced flavor throughout.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and noodles to soften slightly while maintaining crunchiness, enhancing taste and texture before serving.
Notes
- Serve within a few hours to enjoy the salad at its peak crunchiness.
- For a healthier version, reduce the sugar or replace it with a sugar substitute.
- Swap vegetable oil for avocado or olive oil to increase healthy fats.
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken to turn this salad into a complete meal.
