This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables, savory ramen noodles, and a flavorful sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad stands out with its unique textures and vibrant flavors. The combination of crunchy almonds and creamy avocado elevates this dish, making it not just nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Enjoy it as a side or a main course!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Vinaigrette: Tossed in a homemade sesame honey vinaigrette, each bite bursts with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with edamame and fresh produce, this salad is both delicious and good for you.
- Great for Sharing: With about 8 servings, it’s ideal for gatherings and parties.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients comfortably without spilling.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps in blending the vinaigrette smoothly for an even distribution of flavors.
Ingredients
This delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad recipe is tossed with a simple sesame vinaigrette…and tastes absolutely delicious!
For the Salad
- 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 Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine:
1. Avocado oil
2. Honey
3. Rice vinegar
4. Soy sauce
5. Toasted sesame oil
6. Salt and black pepper
Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the coleslaw mix.
2. Crumble ramen noodles over the top.
3. Add shelled edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated with dressing.
Step 4: Serve Immediately or Chill
You can serve your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad right away or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld even more. Enjoy!
How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a family gathering or a potluck. Here are some creative ways to serve this refreshing salad that will impress your guests.
As a Main Course
- Serve it chilled in a large bowl for an easy and satisfying main dish.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
As a Side Dish
- Offer it alongside barbecued meats for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Serve as a side to Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki salmon or stir-fried tofu.
In a Picnic
- Pack portions in mason jars for an easy-to-eat picnic meal.
- Layer the ingredients with the dressing at the bottom to keep everything fresh until serving.
For Meal Prep
- Divide into individual containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat for maximum crunchiness.
How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
To ensure your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and ripe fruits enhance flavor and texture.
- Toast the ramen noodles: Lightly toast them in the oven before adding to the salad for extra crunch.
- Adjust sweetness: Customize the honey in the vinaigrette to suit your taste preference.
- Let it chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.
- Garnish wisely: Top with sesame seeds or additional green onions right before serving for added texture.
Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: This sweet and savory dish complements the salad’s freshness beautifully.
- Spicy Edamame: A simple yet flavorful snack that adds another layer of protein.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light bites provide a crunchy contrast to the salad’s textures.
- Miso Soup: A warm soup that balances well with the cold salad, enhancing the meal experience.
- Sushi Rolls: Serve assorted sushi rolls as a fun addition that invites variety into your meal.
- Cucumber Kimchi: This tangy and spicy side adds an extra dimension of flavor that pairs well with ramen noodles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can detract from its flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using the seasoning packet: Many people mistakenly use the seasoning packet that comes with ramen noodles. To keep your salad light and fresh, skip it and focus on the sesame vinaigrette for flavor.
- Not prepping ingredients properly: Failing to chop or slice your vegetables correctly can lead to uneven bites. Make sure to julienne or dice fruits and veggies as directed for balanced flavors.
- Skipping the vinaigrette: Some may think they can do without dressing. The sesame honey vinaigrette is key in tying all flavors together, so don’t skip this important step.
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking ramen noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente to maintain a crunchy texture in your salad.
- Storing leftovers incorrectly: Improper storage can lead to soggy leftovers. Use airtight containers and keep your salad refrigerated for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
- Keep the vinaigrette separate if possible, to maintain crunchiness until serving.
Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the vegetables.
- If you must freeze, only freeze the edamame and noodles separately.
- Use freezer-safe containers and label with date for reference.
Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad.
Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add proteins like shredded chicken or tofu, or substitute any vegetables based on your preference.
How long does Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Is there a gluten-free version of this salad?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free ramen noodles and check labels on sauces like soy sauce or honey for gluten-free options.
What other dressings work well with this salad?
Besides the sesame honey vinaigrette, you might try peanut dressing or a light Asian-style dressing made with lime juice and olive oil.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. With various ingredients and dressings available, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this salad is sure to impress! Try it out today and explore different combinations that excite your palate!
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances crunchy vegetables, savory ramen noodles, and a zesty sesame honey vinaigrette. This quick and easy salad is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch. The delightful combination of crunchy almonds, creamy avocado, and sweet mango creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. With its nutritious ingredients like edamame and fresh produce, this salad is not only satisfying but also packed with goodness. Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a main course—either way, it’s sure to impress!
- Total Time: 31 minute
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix
- 2 (3-ounce) packages of ramen noodles (crushed)
- 1 cup shelled cooked edamame
- 1 avocado (diced)
- 1 mango (julienned or diced)
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- ½ cup green onions (sliced)
- For the vinaigrette: avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine coleslaw mix with crumbled ramen noodles.
- Add edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Toast ramen noodles in the oven for added crunch if desired. Feel free to customize with your choice of proteins or vegetables.