This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion! With its delightful mix of textures and flavors, this salad is sure to impress at potlucks, picnics, or simply as a refreshing side for dinner. The combination of crunchy ramen, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sesame vinaigrette makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with colorful veggies like avocado and mango, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add proteins or swap out veggies!
- Crowd-Pleaser: The crunchy texture of the ramen combined with the sweetness of mango and nuttiness of almonds makes this salad a hit at any gathering.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for meal prep or parties. Just add the dressing right before serving to maintain that crunch.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into making this delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending the vinaigrette ingredients smoothly to achieve a well-mixed dressing.
- Cutting board & knife: Essential for chopping fresh vegetables like avocado and mango safely and efficiently.
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
How to Make Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your fresh ingredients.
* Wash and chop the avocado into bite-sized pieces.
* Peel and julienne (or dice) the mango.
* Slice the green onions thinly.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl:
1. Combine avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add coleslaw mix, crumbled ramen noodles, edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
2. Pour in the vinaigrette.
3. Toss everything gently until well combined.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch!
How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Serving Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a breeze, and it pairs well with many dishes. This vibrant salad not only looks appetizing but also offers a refreshing crunch that complements various meals.
As a Standalone Dish
- Perfect for lunch or dinner, enjoy it fresh and chilled for a light meal.
With Grilled Chicken
- Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for a protein boost while keeping the meal light and healthy.
As a Picnic Favorite
- Pack it in your picnic basket; this salad holds up well and makes for an easy dish to share outdoors.
For Potlucks
- This salad is a crowd-pleaser! Bring it to potlucks or gatherings where everyone can appreciate its unique flavors.
Paired with Tofu Skewers
- Enjoy with skewered marinated tofu for a delicious plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the texture and flavor of your salad, making it more enjoyable.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or acidity in the vinaigrette to match your taste preferences.
- Add More Crunch: Incorporate other crunchy elements like sunflower seeds or sliced radishes for added texture.
- Let It Chill: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve Immediately: For maximum crunchiness, serve the salad right after tossing. This keeps the ramen noodles from getting soggy.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try adding cooked chicken, beef, or turkey for an extra heartiness that pairs well with the fresh ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is versatile and can be paired with various side dishes to create a wholesome meal. Here are some great options:
Grilled Vegetables
Pair with seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers; they add smoky flavors that complement the salad.Fruit Skewers
Fresh fruit on skewers makes an excellent sweet contrast; choose fruits like pineapple and strawberries for brightness.Quinoa Pilaf
A light quinoa pilaf can provide additional nutrients while maintaining a similar flavor profile as the salad.Stuffed Bell Peppers
These can be filled with rice, beans, and spices; they add a hearty element to your meal while being visually appealing.Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Light and fresh cucumber rolls filled with avocado and carrots make an excellent side that is also fun to eat.Baked Sweet Potato Wedges
Crispy sweet potato wedges offer sweetness and fiber; season them lightly for a perfect balance alongside your salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Vinaigrette: The sesame honey vinaigrette is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, mix it well before adding to the salad.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Leaving ramen noodles in boiling water too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Not Adding Enough Veggies: This salad benefits from a variety of textures and flavors. Be generous with your vegetables for a more vibrant dish.
- Using Stale Nuts: Ensure your almonds are fresh for crunch. Store nuts in a cool place and check their smell before use.
- Ignoring Presentation: A visually appealing salad enhances the dining experience. Layer ingredients artfully and serve immediately for the best look.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
- This salad is not ideal for freezing due to fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes, avoiding sogginess.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a little oil if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad.
Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers according to your taste.
How long does Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad last?
When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days before losing its crunchiness.
Can I use different types of oil?
Yes, you can replace avocado oil with any neutral cooking oil like canola or sunflower oil based on your preference.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free ramen noodles and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. This refreshing dish is perfect for lunch or as a side at dinner. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful crunch!
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crunchy ramen noodles with a medley of colorful vegetables and a tangy sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a healthy side dish for dinner, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. With its delightful mix of textures and flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or seasonal veggies. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (16 oz)
- 2 packages of ramen noodles (3 oz each), crumbled
- 1 cup shelled and cooked edamame
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 mango, julienned
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup avocado oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: chop avocado and mango, slice green onions.
- Make the vinaigrette: combine avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; whisk until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: in a large bowl, mix coleslaw, ramen noodles, edamame, avocado, mango, almonds, and green onions. Pour vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg