Indulge in the delicious crunch and vibrant flavors of this Asian Ramen Salad. With its perfect balance of texture and taste, this salad makes for a delightful side dish or a light meal. It is incredibly easy to prepare, combining fresh ingredients with the comfort of ramen noodles. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal, this recipe will surely impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Asian Ramen Salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition and flavor. The use of coleslaw mix, red cabbage, and fresh herbs offers a delightful crunch and bursts of color. Coupled with the toasted sunflower seeds and sliced almonds, each bite brings a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish. The soy sauce flavored ramen noodles add a unique twist, making it a fusion dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients

16 ounces coleslaw mix
2 cups red cabbage, shredded
2 green onions, sliced
6 tablespoons sunflower seeds
6 tablespoons sliced almonds
½ cup cilantro, chopped
2 packages soy sauce flavored ramen noodles (discard the soup base packet and crush the noodles)

How To Make Asian Ramen Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Take the coleslaw mix and place it in a large mixing bowl. Shred the red cabbage and slice the green onions, adding them to the bowl as well. The mixing bowl should be large enough to ensure there’s plenty of room for tossing later on.

Step 2: Toast the Nuts and Seeds

In a skillet over medium heat, add the sunflower seeds and sliced almonds. Toast them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden and fragrant. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.

Step 3: Cook the Ramen Noodles

Boil water in a medium saucepan and add the two packages of ramen noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, crush the noodles into smaller pieces and add them to the mixing bowl.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now that all your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to combine them. In the large mixing bowl, add the toasted sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix together your preferred dressing. A simple combination of soy sauce or a sesame dressing pairs well with this salad. You can also add a splash of vinegar for some acidity or a drizzle of sesame oil for depth and richness.

Step 6: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients. Make sure the noodles are well distributed throughout the salad to enhance the flavors in every bite. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Asian Ramen Salad in a large bowl or individual servings. It can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for later. This salad is best served fresh but can also last for a few days if stored correctly.

Expert Tips

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Toast the nuts and seeds until golden; this enhances their flavor.
Adjust the dressing according to your taste; you may want it sweeter or saltier.
For added protein, consider adding shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame.

Variations and Customizations

Add sliced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
Incorporate shredded carrots for added sweetness.
Add other greens such as baby spinach or kale for additional nutrition.
Include diced avocado for creaminess.
For a kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing.

How to Store Leftovers

This Asian Ramen Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, due to the presence of fresh ingredients, it is best enjoyed fresh. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crispness.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance but is best served fresh. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it to maintain the texture of the vegetables.

What type of dressing is best for Asian Ramen Salad?

A soy sauce-based dressing works great, but you can also use a sesame vinaigrette or a light Asian-style dressing with ginger and garlic for extra flavor. Feel free to customize it to fit your taste!

Is this salad gluten-free?

The salad itself can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free ramen noodles. Check the labels to ensure no gluten ingredients are included in your selected products.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, tofu, chickpeas, or edamame can turn this salad into a hearty main dish, making it perfect for a full meal.

Conclusion

This Asian Ramen Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering or meal. With its vibrant colors, crunchy texture, and array of flavors, it’s the perfect blend of nutrition and satisfaction. Easy to make and customizable, you can adjust the ingredients and dressing to suit your preferences. Whether as a side dish or as a main meal, this salad is a must-try. Dive into the delicious world of flavors with this fresh and tasty Asian Ramen Salad! Enjoy!

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