There’s something refreshing about a salad that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a burst of color to your table. Enter the Easy Ramen Noodle Salad—a delightful blend of crunchy cabbage, vibrant carrots, and nutty almonds that will make your taste buds sing! I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when I was desperately seeking a quick, healthy alternative to takeout.
As the sweet and tangy dressing enveloped the crisply chopped vegetables, I realized this salad was not just a meal; it was a joyful escape from the usual fast-food routine. This dish is perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet filling, or for potlucks where you’re tasked with impressing a crowd. Best of all, it comes together in a flash! So, grab your bowls and let’s dive into this vibrant medley of flavors that proves eating fresh and homemade can be blissfully easy.
Why is Easy Ramen Noodle Salad a must-try?
Bursting with colors: This salad is a feast for the eyes, featuring vibrant green and red cabbage alongside bright orange carrots.
Crunchy texture: The toasted almonds and ramen noodles add an irresistible crunch that will keep you coming back for more.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this salad can be whipped up in under 20 minutes, making it a hassle-free choice.
Flavor-packed: The sweet and tangy dressing marries beautifully with the fresh veggies, ensuring each bite is delicious.
Versatile: Serve it as a side, main dish, or even at potlucks—it’s bound to impress! Dive into the flavors of home-cooked goodness with this delightful salad and explore more healthy salad ideas in our salad recipes collection.
Easy Ramen Noodle Salad Ingredients
Discover the delicious components that make this salad a breeze to prepare!
For the Salad
• Shredded green cabbage – adds a refreshing crunch and is rich in fiber.
• Shredded red cabbage – provides vibrant color and loads of antioxidants.
• Shredded carrots – contributes natural sweetness and a hearty texture.
• Ramen noodles – these add a delightful chewiness; break them up for an exciting crunch!
• Sliced green onions – brings a subtle onion flavor that elevates the dish.
• Toasted slivered almonds – offer a nutty richness and additional crunch.
For the Dressing
• Vegetable oil – serves as the base, bringing all the flavors together seamlessly.
• Rice vinegar – adds a tangy brightness that complements the veggies perfectly.
• Sugar – balances the acidity of the vinegar and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Creating this Easy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only simple but also a sure-fire way to enjoy a homemade meal bursting with vibrant flavors!
How to Make Easy Ramen Noodle Salad
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Combine – In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots until well blended. This colorful base will set the stage for a refreshing salad.
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Whisk – In a separate small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, and sugar. Whisk them together until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.
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Prepare – Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and add the broken noodles to the cabbage mixture, introducing a delightful chewiness.
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Dress – Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure the dressing coats the vegetables and noodles evenly. The vibrant colors should start to shine!
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Add – Gently stir in the sliced green onions and toasted almonds, allowing them to distribute throughout the salad. Their flavor and crunch will enhance every bite.
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Serve – Enjoy the salad immediately for the best texture, or refrigerate it for a while if you prefer it chilled. It’s great either way!
Optional: Top with sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Ramen Noodle Salad
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and crunch. Wilted cabbage or old carrots can dull the vibrant taste of your Easy Ramen Noodle Salad.
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Noodle Prep: Always break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces before cooking. This ensures even distribution throughout the salad, enhancing texture.
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Dress Carefully: Pour the dressing gradually and toss gently. Overdressing can lead to soggy salad leaves! You want a light, flavorful coating.
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Taste Balance: If your dressing is too acidic, adjust it with a touch more sugar. This will help round out the flavors in your Easy Ramen Noodle Salad.
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Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge before serving. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste!
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Customization: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or additional veggies for extra nutrition and variation, keeping the base the same for that signature crunch!
What to Serve with Easy Ramen Noodle Salad?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement this crunchy salad in both flavor and texture.
- Grilled Chicken: A juicy piece of grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh crunch of the salad.
- Teriyaki Tofu: Marinated tofu brings an umami-rich taste, perfect for balancing the sweet dressing in the salad.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: These savory, crunchy treats provide a delightful contrast, making your meal feel like a feast. Serve them hot alongside the cool salad for a delicious combo!
- Sweet and Spicy Thai Shrimp: The bold flavors of shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce flirt perfectly with the tangy salad dressing.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad adds another cool layer, echoing the vibrant flavors of the Easy Ramen Noodle Salad.
- Miso Soup: Warm miso soup offers a comforting contrast to the cold salad and enhances the overall Asian-inspired meal theme.
- Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to complement the flavors of your meal and bring a festive touch to the dining experience.
- Matcha Green Tea: A warm cup of matcha tea adds a unique flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the salad’s sweetness.
- Fruity Sorbet: Finish with a light, fruity sorbet for a refreshing dessert that won’t weigh you down after your meal!
Easy Ramen Noodle Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Easy Ramen Noodle Salad; the possibilities are endless and oh-so-delicious!
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Protein-Packed: Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a hearty boost, transforming your salad into a satisfying meal.
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Dairy-Free: Swap out any dairy toppings for avocado slices, which will lend a creamy texture without compromising flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and vibrant colors. This is a great way to use up what you have on hand!
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing for a zesty twist, bringing an exciting heat to each bite. Adjust based on your heat tolerance!
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Nut-Free: Replace slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to keep the crunch while accommodating nut allergies.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate toasted sesame oil into the dressing for an extra layer of flavor that brings authentic Asian flair to your salad.
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Sweet and Savory: Add diced pineapple or mandarin oranges to strum a delightful sweet chord against the savory cabbage and ramen—perfectly refreshing!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ramen noodles available in many supermarkets, allowing everyone to savor this delicious salad without worry.
These variations allow you to personalize your Easy Ramen Noodle Salad, making it not just a recipe but a canvas for your culinary creativity!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Ramen Noodle Salad
Fridge: Store leftover Easy Ramen Noodle Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and crunch.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of the veggies and noodles may become mushy upon thawing.
Preparation for Storage: If you plan to store leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help keep the salad crisp!
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. For the freshest taste and texture, serve it directly from the fridge.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Ramen Noodle Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during your weeknight cooking routine! You can prepare the salad base—shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots—up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The toasted almonds and green onions are best added right before serving for a delightful crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the ramen noodles and whisk the dressing (vegetable oil, rice vinegar, and sugar) to combine, then toss everything together. This way, you’ll have a fabulous salad on hand that’s just as delicious as the day you made it!
Easy Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cabbage for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for heads of cabbage that feel heavy for their size, with tightly packed leaves. Both green and red cabbages should be crisp and free of dark spots. For the freshest taste, use cabbages with vibrant colors and firm texture.
How long can I store the leftover Easy Ramen Noodle Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Always give it a quick toss before enjoying!
Can I freeze Easy Ramen Noodle Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the vegetables and noodles may lose their delightful crunch and become mushy when thawed. The best way to enjoy it is fresh! If you want to prep components ahead of time, consider chopping the veggies and keeping them in the fridge.
What if my ramen noodles are too soft after cooking?
Very good question! Ramen noodles can easily become overcooked. Make sure to follow the package instructions carefully, and try to cook them just until al dente (firm to the bite) to avoid mushiness. After draining, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and help maintain that perfect texture.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! Since this salad contains almonds, it’s important to be cautious if you or your guests have nut allergies. For a nut-free version, simply substitute the toasted slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Always check the ramen noodle packaging for potential allergens, particularly if gluten is a concern.
Can I make this salad in advance for a gathering?
Yes, you can! To make it in advance, prepare the salad without the dressing and store it in the refrigerator. A few hours before serving, whip up the dressing and combine everything. Allow it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let all those delicious flavors meld together, and you’ll have an impressive, crunchy salad ready to delight your guests!
Crunchy Easy Ramen Noodle Salad for Quick Weeknight Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots until well blended.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, and sugar. Whisk them together until the mixture is well combined.
- Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and add to the cabbage mixture.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Gently stir in the sliced green onions and toasted almonds.
- Enjoy the salad immediately or refrigerate for a while if you prefer it chilled.