Say hello to your new obsession: a vibrant Ramen Salad bursting with crunchy toasted noodles, toasted almonds, crisp coleslaw, bright mandarin oranges, and tender edamame. A silky-sweet dressing of canola oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and a whisper of sesame oil ties every flavor together, creating a playful dance on your taste buds. Effortless to assemble but unforgettable in each bite, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, potluck showstopper, or an easy weeknight delight. Whip it up in minutes, savor the irresistible textures, and let this colorful, refreshing dish bring joy and crunch to your table!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Ramen Salad
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crunchy texture from toasted ramen and almonds adds excitement.
- Colorful and nutritious, packed with fresh veggies and protein.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
- Deliciously refreshing, ideal for potlucks and gatherings.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Salad |
| Cuisine | Asian |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 9 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 24 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Chilled or at room temperature |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Ramen Salad!
- 2 (3oz) packages Ramen noodles – any flavor
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds – for a crunchy texture
- 1 (16oz) package coleslaw mix – adds freshness
- 1 cup mandarin oranges – drained, for sweetness
- 1 cup shelled edamame – for protein
- 4 scallions – sliced, for flavor
- 1/3 cup canola oil – base for the dressing
- 1/3 cup sugar – adds sweetness
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – for tanginess
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – for umami
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil – for a hint of nuttiness
- salt and pepper – to taste
How to Make Ramen Salad
This delightful Ramen Salad is quick to prepare, taking about 15 minutes, with an additional 7-9 minutes for baking the noodles. Perfect for a refreshing meal!
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 415°F.
Step 2: Prepare Noodles
Crush the ramen noodles and discard the seasoning packets. Toss the noodles and sliced almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake Noodles
Bake for 7–9 minutes until golden, stirring halfway through. Let them cool.
Step 4: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, edamame, mandarin oranges, scallions, and the toasted noodle mixture.
Step 5: Make Dressing
Whisk together canola oil, sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves.
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Pro Tips for Making Ramen Salad
- Toast the ramen and almonds until golden for extra crunch.
- Chill the salad before serving for a refreshing taste.
- Experiment with different veggies for added color and flavor.
- Adjust the dressing sweetness to your preference.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or store for later enjoyment.
How to Serve this Ramen Salad
- Serve chilled for a refreshing summer dish.
- Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.
- Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
- Enjoy as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
- Add sliced cucumbers for an extra layer of freshness.
- Mix in some avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Serve alongside a light miso soup for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store Ramen Salad for later enjoyment:
Storing Ramen Salad Leftovers
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
Freezing Ramen Salad
- Assemble the salad without dressing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Ramen Salad
- Ramen Salad is best served cold.
- If desired, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Add dressing just before serving for freshness.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain texture.
Ramen Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 415°F.
- Step 2: Crush the ramen noodles and discard the seasoning packets. Toss the noodles and sliced almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 3: Bake for 7–9 minutes until golden, stirring halfway through. Let them cool.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, edamame, mandarin oranges, scallions, and the toasted noodle mixture.
- Step 5: Whisk together canola oil, sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 6: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbs | 30g |
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use a different type of noodle instead of Ramen?
Absolutely! You can substitute Ramen noodles with other types of noodles such as soba, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodle you choose to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
2. How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
To make this salad vegan, simply ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled as vegan, and you can replace the sugar with a vegan alternative like agave syrup or coconut sugar. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without any animal products.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness of the noodles and vegetables. The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
4. What can I substitute for edamame if I can’t find it?
If you can’t find edamame, you can easily substitute it with green peas or chickpeas. Both options will add a nice texture and protein to the salad, ensuring you still get a satisfying crunch and flavor in every bite.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to savor the delightful crunch of this Ramen Salad! It’s a quick, vibrant dish that brings back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration on a plate! So grab your bowl, toss it all together, and enjoy every bite of this simple, rewarding treat!