Name: Ramen Noodle Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 2 pkg. ramen (3-oz. each); 1/2 cup raw, unsalted peanuts; 1/4 cup raw sesame seeds; 1 clove garlic (grated); 1/3 cup unseasoned rice vinegar; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil; 1/2 orange (zest); 2 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp. ground ginger; 1 tsp. kosher salt; 4 cups thinly shredded green cabbage ((from about 1/2 head)); 1 cup thinly shredded red cabbage ((from about 1/4 head)); 1/2 cup shelled edamame; 1/2 cup shredded unpeeled carrots ((from about 3 medium)); 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tsp. kosher salt

Introduction to Ramen Noodle Salad

Ramen Noodle Salad is not just another salad; it's an exciting and vibrant dish that transforms the everyday into something extraordinary. Homemade versions of this salad are game changers for many reasons. First and foremost, crafting it in your own kitchen allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. Want an extra kick? Toss in some sriracha! Prefer it sweet? A splash more maple syrup will do wonders. This freedom is something store-bought varieties simply can’t offer.

Moreover, a fresh Ramen Noodle Salad is packed with nutrients! You’ll enjoy a delightful mix of crunchy vegetables like cabbage, edamame, and carrots, alongside the nutty flavors from toasted ramen and peanuts. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a hearty side, or even a complete meal. Plus, don’t forget that it travels well, making it a fantastic option for potlucks and picnics!

Curious about its origins? Ramen has been evolving for over a century, making its way into American kitchens with endless variations that cater to all kinds of diets. So, whether you're looking for a quick meal or want to impress friends, this Ramen Noodle Salad is your ultimate go-to solution.

Ingredients for Ramen Noodle Salad

Ramen Noodle Salad is a colorful and crunchy dish that’s perfect for warm days or as a delicious side at gatherings. Let’s break down its tasty components, ensuring you have all the essentials for this delightful salad!

Toasted Ramen Topping

The crunch factor in your Ramen Noodle Salad comes from the toasted ramen topping. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 (3-oz.) packages ramen (discard the flavor packets)
½ cup raw, unsalted peanuts for added nutty flavor
¼ cup raw sesame seeds to enhance that Asian flair

Dressing Ingredients

A good salad dressing can elevate your dish to new heights. For your Ramen Noodle Salad dressing, gather:

1 clove of garlic, grated
⅓ cup unseasoned rice vinegar for a tangy kick
¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey to balance the flavors
¼ cup toasted sesame oil, as it brings depth
Zest of ½ orange for a fresh burst of citrus
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce to keep it savory
2 teaspoons ground ginger, adding warmth and spice
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Salad Components

Now, let’s fill up that salad bowl! The vibrant ingredients in your Ramen Noodle Salad include:

4 cups thinly shredded green cabbage (about ½ head)
1 cup thinly shredded red cabbage (about ¼ head)
½ cup shelled edamame for protein
½ cup shredded unpeeled carrots (from about 3 mediums)
½ cup thinly sliced scallions for a slight bite
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro adds freshness
1 teaspoon kosher salt to enhance all the flavors

With these ingredients, your Ramen Noodle Salad will not only be delicious but also bursting with nutrients. Enjoy assembling this flavorful dish! For more recipe ideas, check out this link for inspiration.

Preparing Ramen Noodle Salad

Creating a refreshing and satisfying Ramen Noodle Salad is easier than you might think! Follow these steps to get the perfect dish that's both crunchy and flavorful.

Toast the Ramen Topping

To start, you’ll want to add a delightful crunch to your Ramen Noodle Salad.

Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange a rack in the center.
Keep the ramen in its packaging and crush one pack into smaller crumbs while leaving the other pack in slightly larger pieces.
Spread both packs on a baking sheet and add ½ cup of raw, unsalted peanuts and ¼ cup of raw sesame seeds to the mix. Toss everything together for even coating.
Bake for about 6 minutes, and make sure to toss them halfway through until they turn a lovely golden brown. This crunchy topping is what elevates your salad!

Make the Dressing

While your ramen topping is toasting, it's time to whip up a delicious dressing!

In a medium bowl, combine 1 grated garlic clove, ⅓ cup of unseasoned rice vinegar, ¼ cup of pure maple syrup or honey, and ¼ cup of toasted sesame oil.
Add in the zest of ½ an orange, 2 tablespoons of reduced-sodium soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Whisk everything together until it’s well-blended, and then set it aside to let the flavors meld. For more ideas on dressings, you might want to consult Food Network.

Assemble the Salad

Now, onto the main event!

In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of thinly shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of thinly shredded red cabbage, ½ cup of shelled edamame, ½ cup of shredded carrots, ½ cup of thinly sliced scallions, and ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt for enhanced taste.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over your vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
After that, add your toasted ramen topping and give it another gentle toss to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Make Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a gathering or just want to have a quick meal prep option, this salad is excellent for making ahead!

You can assemble your Ramen Noodle Salad up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, the flavors continue to develop, and you have a hassle-free side or main dish ready to grab!

Enjoy this vibrant and tasty Ramen Noodle Salad as a side or a light lunch. You can also experiment with additional toppings like chopped veggies or proteins, making it your own! Happy cooking!

Variations on Ramen Noodle Salad

Add Proteins (like grilled chicken or tofu)

Elevate your Ramen Noodle Salad by incorporating proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a hearty meal. Grilled chicken offers juicy tenderness, while tofu can soak up the dressing’s flavors, making it an excellent vegetarian choice. For a twist, consider adding chickpeas or even edamame if you want a plant-based option. Each protein choice adds a unique flavor and texture, making your salad more satisfying and nutritious.

Creative Dressing Options

Don't hesitate to experiment with the dressing to suit your taste. Instead of the classic sesame dressing, try a zesty peanut sauce or a citrus vinaigrette. You could even mix in some sriracha for a spicy kick or tahini for a nutty depth. The beauty of a Ramen Noodle Salad is its versatility, so adjust the dressing based on the proteins and veggies you select. This keeps every bowl feeling fresh and exciting!

Cooking Tips for Ramen Noodle Salad

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Ramen Noodle Salad with ingredients you already have on hand. For instance, if you’re not a fan of raw peanuts, try using almonds or sunflower seeds instead. You can substitute edamame with chickpeas for added protein, and if you're looking to cut down on sugar, swap maple syrup for agave nectar. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can also deliver a wonderful spin!

Avoiding Soggy Salad

To keeps your Ramen Noodle Salad crisp, make sure to dress it right before serving. Toss the salad and dressing gently, just to coat the ingredients, and avoid letting it sit dressed for too long. If you make it ahead, keep the dressing separate and combine just before enjoying for that fresh crunch.

For more insights into salad preparation techniques, check out this helpful guide from Serious Eats!

Serving Suggestions for Ramen Noodle Salad

Perfect Pairings

This Ramen Noodle Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a satisfying meal. Try serving it alongside a side of Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for added protein. For an extra crunch, some crispy tempura vegetables would complement the salad's textures perfectly. If you’re looking for a lighter touch, consider a side of miso soup or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Ideal Serving Temperature

Enjoy your Ramen Noodle Salad chilled or at room temperature for the best experience. This makes it ideal for meal prepping ahead of time. Serve it as a vibrant lunch option or as a crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks. Remember, whether you eat it fresh or after a few days in the fridge, those flavors continue to meld and develop, making each bite deliciously enticing.

Time Breakdown for Ramen Noodle Salad

Preparation Time

Preparing your Ramen Noodle Salad is quick and easy! Set aside about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and chop your veggies.

Cooking Time

For the toasted ramen topping, you’ll need roughly 10 minutes of baking time. Just keep an eye on those crumbs to ensure they achieve that perfect golden color!

Total Time

All in all, you'll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish creating this delicious salad. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering!

Feeling inspired? Check out more on crafting delightful salads like the Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, or explore refreshing variations like Avocado Chicken Salad for your next meal!

Nutritional Facts for Ramen Noodle Salad

Calories

A single serving of this delicious Ramen Noodle Salad packs approximately 250-300 calories. This makes it a light yet satisfying choice, perfect for lunch or a side dish at dinner.

Protein

With the addition of edamame and peanuts, you can enjoy about 10-12 grams of protein per serving. This contributes to a balanced meal, giving you sustained energy throughout your day.

Sodium

Due to the soy sauce and other ingredients, the sodium content can be around 600-800 mg per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or adjusting the dressing recipe.

If you'd like to learn more about the impacts of sodium in your diet, you can check out resources from the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Ramen Noodle Salad

Can I use gluten-free ramen?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, many brands offer gluten-free ramen noodles made from rice or other grains. Just keep an eye on the ingredients, and you’ll still enjoy that delightful crunch and texture in your Ramen Noodle Salad.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

Your Ramen Noodle Salad will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days, thanks to the hearty vegetables and the dressing coating the noodles. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness!

What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to get creative! You can add sweet bell peppers, snap peas, or even cucumber. The beauty of this salad is its versatility, so use whatever crunchy veggies you have on hand. Popular additions are broccoli florets and zucchini, which add nutrition and vibrant color. Dive into your kitchen and customize your Ramen Noodle Salad to suit your taste!

For more tips on incorporating veggies, check out resources like EatingWell.

Conclusion on Ramen Noodle Salad

In conclusion, this Ramen Noodle Salad is not just a delicious dish; it’s a vibrant and nourishing choice perfect for any gathering or meal prep. With its crunchy textures and zesty dressing, you’ll enjoy every bite. Try it today and elevate your salad game to a whole new level!