Asian Ramen Salad
There’s something incredibly refreshing and satisfying about a bowl of Asian Ramen Salad. I remember the first time I had it at a friend’s summer barbecue; the vibrant colors of the vegetables mixed with the crunch of the ramen noodles and the creamy dressing left a lasting impression. It was the perfect dish for those hot summer days when you want something light yet filling. Every bite was a burst of flavors that kept me coming back for more. Now, I make this salad whenever I need a quick and easy meal that’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a picnic, a family gathering, or just a treat for myself, Asian Ramen Salad never disappoints.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
15 mins
0 mins
Easy
350 kcal
8 g
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free
25 g
Chef’s Knife, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon
What Makes This Asian Ramen Salad Special
It’s a Flavor Explosion
One of the key reasons I adore Asian Ramen Salad is the explosion of flavors it brings to the table. The combination of the crunchy ramen noodles, crisp vegetables, and the tangy dressing creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to please any palate.
Quick and Easy
We all have those busy days when time is of the essence. This salad comes together in no time, making it an ideal solution for weeknight dinners or potlucks. You can whip it up in under thirty minutes!
Versatility at Its Best
One of the aspects I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or seasonal vegetables, giving you endless options to suit your mood or dietary preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to prepare meals in advance, Asian Ramen Salad is perfect for you. It stores well in the fridge, and you can keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, ensuring the noodles stay crispy.
Great for Gatherings
Every time I serve this salad at gatherings, it’s always a hit. Whether it’s a family dinner or a picnic with friends, it never fails to impress. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it an attractive addition to any table.
Healthier Take on Convenience Foods
With the right ingredients, Asian Ramen Salad can be a healthier alternative to takeout. You control what goes in, so you can skip the additives and preservatives often found in pre-packaged meals.
Asian Ramen Salad Ingredients
The ingredients for Asian Ramen Salad are simple yet impactful. Each one plays a role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy vegetables complement the soft noodles, while the dressing ties everything together for a deliciously satisfying dish.
- 3 (3-ounce) packages of ramen noodles: The main component, these noodles add a delightful crunch and texture.
- ½ cup of unsalted butter: This will be melted and mixed with the noodles for a delicious buttery flavor.
- 1½ cups of sliced almonds: They provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.
- ½ cup of olive oil: This is used in the dressing, adding richness and healthy fats.
- ¼ cup of white vinegar: This adds a tangy zing to the dressing.
- â…“ cup of sugar: To balance the acidity of the vinegar and create a sweet dressing.
- 2 (16-ounce) bags of tri-color coleslaw mix: This is the base of the salad and adds color and crunch.
Preparation Steps for Asian Ramen Salad
Making Asian Ramen Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master. It involves a few simple steps that yield a dish packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the preparation!
- Open the packages of ramen noodles and set aside the seasoning packets for later use. Place the uncooked noodles in a large plastic bag and break them up using your hands or the bottom of a cup. This method ensures they’ll be crispy.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the broken ramen noodles along with the sliced almonds. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes until they are toasted and lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor and crunch of the noodles.
- Spread the toasted noodle mixture onto a baking sheet and let it cool. This will prevent them from becoming soggy when mixed with the other ingredients.
- In a medium container with a lid, mix together the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and the contents of the ramen seasoning packets. Make sure to close the lid tightly and shake well until everything is combined. This makes for a delicious dressing that brings everything together.
- When you’re ready to serve, place the tri-color coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Top with the cooled noodle mixture and pour over the dressing. It’s important to mix everything well so that all the flavors are incorporated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness and crunch of your Asian Ramen Salad. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner!
Things Worth Knowing
- Toasting the noodles: This step is crucial as it adds a depth of flavor and a delightful crunch. Watch them closely while they cook to avoid burning.
- Cooling the mixture: Allowing the toasted noodles to cool prevents sogginess when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Mixing the dressing: Shaking the dressing in a container ensures it’s well combined, allowing each bite of your salad to be flavorful.
- Serving immediately: For the best texture, serve the salad right after assembling it. The noodles will stay crispy this way.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe
There are countless ways to make Asian Ramen Salad your own! Here are some tips to customize this dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but remember that the noodles will soften over time.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles and veggies will suffer when thawed.
- Pairing: This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Make it a meal: Add shredded cooked chicken or tofu to boost the protein content and make it more filling.
- Seasonal variations: Swap out the coleslaw mix for other greens like spinach or kale based on what’s in season.
What Complements This Asian Ramen Salad
Serving Asian Ramen Salad opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled shrimp: The sweetness of grilled shrimp enhances the salad’s flavors and adds more protein.
- Side of fresh fruit: A light fruit salad can add a refreshing contrast to the crunchy salad.
- Perfect for picnics: This salad is easy to transport, making it an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings or potlucks.
- Pair with rice dishes: Consider serving it alongside teriyaki chicken or fried rice for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Seasonal themes: This salad is versatile enough to fit any season—add in summer berries or roasted root vegetables for a winter twist.
FAQ
Conclusion
Asian Ramen Salad is not just a dish; it’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that come together beautifully. With its vibrant ingredients and versatile nature, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to festive gatherings. I encourage you to try this salad and experience the joy it brings to your table. Your taste buds will thank you!
Asian Ramen Salad
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 3 packages chicken ramen noodles
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups sliced almonds
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup white vinegar
- â…“ cup sugar
- 2 bags tri-color coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Open the packages of ramen noodles and set aside the seasoning packets for later use. Place the uncooked noodles in a large plastic bag and break them up using your hands or the bottom of a cup. This method ensures they’ll be crispy.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the broken ramen noodles along with the sliced almonds. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes until they are toasted and lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor and crunch of the noodles.
- Spread the toasted noodle mixture onto a baking sheet and let it cool. This will prevent them from becoming soggy when mixed with the other ingredients.
- In a medium container with a lid, mix together the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and the contents of the ramen seasoning packets. Make sure to close the lid tightly and shake well until everything is combined. This makes for a delicious dressing that brings everything together.
- When you're ready to serve, place the tri-color coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Top with the cooled noodle mixture and pour over the dressing. It’s important to mix everything well so that all the flavors are incorporated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the freshness and crunch of your Asian Ramen Salad. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner!
Notes
- Change It Up: Give your salad additional protein, color, and flavor by adding shredded cooked chicken, mandarin oranges, edamame, sliced green onions, shredded carrots, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, tofu, shrimp or roasted chickpeas.
- Low-Sodium Version: To make this salad a bit healthier you can skip adding in the seasoning packets, which contain lots of added sodium. You can also use 1 to 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce in place of the seasoning packets.
- To Avoid Soggy Noodles: Mix the noodles with the other ingredients right before serving. The longer the salad is stored, the softer the noodles will get.
- Make Ahead: Prepare dressing by putting ingredients in a container or mason jar and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, place coleslaw in a large bowl. Top with noodle mixture and the prepared dressing. Mix and serve immediately.
