Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

The Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant dish that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, this salad combines the delightful crunch of ramen noodles with fresh veggies and a zesty sesame vinaigrette. It’s not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. This salad truly stands out with its unique flavors and textures!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables like avocado and mango, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite toppings or add proteins like chicken or shrimp.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The sesame honey vinaigrette adds an irresistible taste that ties everything together.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress your friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps combine all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: This tool ensures your vinaigrette is well-blended for maximum flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

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 Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash and chop vegetables as needed.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the coleslaw mix, crumbled ramen noodles, shelled edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
2. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad!

How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, you’ll find the perfect way to enjoy it.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can be served as a main dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad for a fun and portable meal option.

As a Side Salad

• Pair this salad with grilled meats or barbecued dishes for a refreshing side that complements rich flavors.

At Potlucks

• This salad is ideal for potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to make in bulk and sure to impress your guests.

How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad even better, consider these tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures of your dish.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the crunchiness and overall flavor of the salad.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance; it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sunflower seeds or sesame seeds for added texture.
• Keep dressing separate: To prevent sogginess, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with spices add great protein balance.
2. Teriyaki Salmon: A sweet and savory fish option that pairs beautifully with the salad’s crunch.
3. Edamame Hummus: Creamy hummus made from edamame adds another layer of flavor.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with quinoa and veggies make for a hearty side.
5. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a light, refreshing touch.
6. Cucumber Salad: A tangy cucumber salad offers additional crunch and freshness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using the seasoning packet – Many people mistakenly add the ramen seasoning packet. This salad is best without it, so be sure to discard it.
• Overdressing the salad – Adding too much vinaigrette can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Skipping fresh ingredients – Fresh veggies and fruits enhance flavor. Don’t skip on using ripe avocado and juicy mango for the best results.
• Not letting flavors meld – Allowing the salad to sit for a bit helps flavors combine. If you serve it immediately, the salad may taste less vibrant.
• Chopping ingredients unevenly – Consistent size in your ingredients ensures even distribution and texture in each bite. Take your time to chop uniformly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal crunchiness.

Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as fresh ingredients do not hold up well when thawed.
• If you must freeze, only store the noodles and vinaigrette separately.

Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, but be cautious of sogginess.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or oil and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. You could also use different proteins like chicken or tofu.

What can I use instead of ramen noodles?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using rice noodles or even soba noodles for a different texture.

How long does Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad last?

This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored properly. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing this salad ahead of time is ideal; just wait to add the dressing until right before you serve it for maximum crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try making it for your next gathering or meal prep; it’s sure to impress!