Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and a delightful sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish at dinner parties, this salad stands out with its crunchy texture and delicious flavors. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: The sesame honey vinaigrette adds a delightful sweetness and complexity that elevates the dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich edamame, this salad offers great nutrition without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or seasonal availability.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stays fresh in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal planning.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything goes smoothly during preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps emulsify the vinaigrette, ensuring each ingredient is blended well for maximum flavor.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

This delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad recipe is tossed with a simple sesame vinaigrette…and tastes absolutely delicious!

For the Salad Base

• 1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix
• 2 (3-ounce) packages of ramen noodles, crumbled (you will not use the seasoning packet)
• 1 cup shelled and cooked edamame
• 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
• 1 mango, peeled, pitted, and julienned (or diced)
• 1/2 cup thinly-sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup thinly-sliced green onions (scallions)

For the Sesame Honey Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup avocado oil (or vegetable oil, or any cooking oil)
• 1/4 cup honey (or your desired sweetener)
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• pinch of salt and black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the coleslaw mix, crumbled ramen noodles, cooked edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
2. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture:
1. Toss everything together until all components are evenly coated in dressing.
2. Adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper.

Step 4: Serve or Chill

You can serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Enjoy your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad!

How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Add Protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete meal.
• Serve Chilled: Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect for Barbecues: This salad complements grilled burgers and hot dogs wonderfully.
• Pair with Asian Dishes: Serve alongside teriyaki chicken or sushi for an Asian-inspired meal.

In Meal Prep

• Lunch Boxes: Portion the salad into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Storing Tips: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.

How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.
• Bold Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings such as peanut sauce for a unique twist.
• Bold Presentation: Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions for an appealing look.
• Bold Cooking Method: Toast the ramen noodles in a dry pan until golden brown for an enhanced nutty flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This salad pairs well with various side dishes, making your meal more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Grilled Corn: Sweet corn on the cob brushed with butter and spices adds a delightful touch.
2. Bold Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers refreshment alongside this dish.
3. Bold Edamame Hummus: Serve this creamy dip with crackers or veggies for a tasty appetizer.
4. Bold Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a perfect contrast in texture and flavor.
5. Bold Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.
6. Bold Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables make a crunchy and healthy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using the seasoning packet: Many people mistakenly add the ramen seasoning packet. For this salad, it’s best to leave it out, as it can overpower the flavors.
• Chopping vegetables too large: If your veggies are cut too big, they won’t mix well with the noodles. Aim for smaller, bite-sized pieces for better texture and flavor balance.
• Skipping the vinaigrette: Some might forget to add the sesame honey vinaigrette. This dressing is essential for tying all the flavors together, so don’t skip it!
• Not letting it chill: Serving immediately can make the salad less enjoyable. Allowing it to chill in the fridge helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Ignoring freshness: Using old or wilted ingredients can ruin your salad’s appeal. Always opt for fresh produce to ensure a vibrant and tasty dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Avoid adding dressing until ready to serve to keep ingredients crisp.

Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
• If you must freeze, consider keeping the vegetables and noodles separate from the dressing.

Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through while being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warm. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a refreshing dish made with crispy ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a delicious sesame vinaigrette that brings everything together.

Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, swap out veggies based on what you have on hand, or adjust the dressing ingredients for different flavor profiles.

How long does Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad lasts up to 3 days. Remember to keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal freshness.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes! This salad includes plenty of fresh veggies and edamame, making it nutritious. Just be mindful of portions if you’re watching your calorie intake due to added dressings or nuts.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a side dish or a main course packed with nutrients. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings! Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful crunch and vibrant flavors!