Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the best of crunchy vegetables and savory flavors. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick weeknight dinner side, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With fresh ingredients like avocado and mango, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Loaded with colorful veggies and fruits, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add protein for a complete meal.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The sesame honey vinaigrette adds a delightful touch that ties all the ingredients together.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is sure to impress at gatherings with its unique combination of flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Salad tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Use this tool to blend the dressing smoothly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting fruit and vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Salad tongs: These are perfect for serving your salad while keeping its presentation intact.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 Dressing

Combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:
1. 1/2 cup avocado oil
2. 1/4 cup honey
3. 1/4 cup rice vinegar
4. 2 teaspoons soy sauce
5. 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
6. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.

Whisk together until smooth.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the coleslaw mix.
2. Toss in the crumbled ramen noodles.
3. Incorporate the cooked edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the prepared sesame honey vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently until well coated.

Step 4: Serve Immediately or Chill

You can serve your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad right away for maximum crunchiness or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.

Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad!

How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a potluck, or as a light dinner, there are plenty of creative serving suggestions to make it even more delightful.

Bowl Style

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch. Top each bowl with extra sliced almonds and green onions for added crunch.

Wrap It Up

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap servings of the salad for a fun and interactive meal. This method adds freshness and makes for easy eating.

Add Protein

• For a heartier option, add grilled chicken or turkey slices on top of the salad. This not only enhances flavor but also increases protein content.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table. Let everyone serve themselves, creating a communal dining experience that encourages sharing.

Picnic Perfect

• Pack individual portions in mason jars for an easy grab-and-go option. Layer the ingredients to keep them fresh until you’re ready to eat.

How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Creating the perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Opt for crisp coleslaw mix and ripe avocado for the best results.

• Toast the noodles: For an extra crunch, lightly toast the ramen noodles before adding them to the salad. This brings out their nutty flavor.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together, making each bite even more delicious.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey or sweetener based on your taste preferences. A little sweetness balances the savory elements beautifully.

• Experiment with toppings: Mix in additional toppings like sesame seeds or diced bell peppers for added flavor and color.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Complement your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad with tasty side dishes that enhance its flavors and provide variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in soy sauce and garlic, then grill them until tender. These skewers add protein and pair well with the salad.

2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies can add a refreshing crunch beside your salad. Serve with a peanut dipping sauce for extra flavor.

3. Edamame Hummus: Creamy edamame hummus served with pita chips makes for a unique side that complements Asian-inspired flavors perfectly.

4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar provides acidity that balances the richness of the ramen noodle salad.

5. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: Toss chickpeas in spices and roast until crispy for a crunchy snack that pairs wonderfully with your main dish.

6. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast and natural sweetness alongside your savory salad.

7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be comforting when served alongside your cold salad, creating an inviting dining experience.

8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds both color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal while maintaining simplicity in preparation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the Coleslaw Mix: Using a fresh coleslaw mix adds crunch and flavor. Avoid using wilted vegetables for the best texture.
• Not Toasting Almonds: Toasting your almonds enhances their flavor. Skip this step, and you miss out on a rich, nutty taste.
• Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less vinaigrette and add more as needed.
• Using Overcooked Noodles: Cooking ramen noodles too long makes them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for the perfect bite.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fruits like avocado and mango elevate the dish. Don’t substitute with canned or frozen options for optimal taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to fresh ingredients that do not thaw well.
• It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, stirring often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad.

What can I substitute for edamame in Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

You can use cooked green peas or chickpeas if you don’t have edamame on hand. Both offer similar textures and flavors.

How can I make my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ramen noodles and ensure your soy sauce is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the salad without gluten issues.

Can I add protein to my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or turkey can be added for extra protein. Cook and slice them before mixing them into your salad.

How do I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers. You could also switch up the nuts or use different fruits based on seasonality.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a delightful dish that combines textures and flavors beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients according to your preferences. Whether served as a side or a main dish, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends!