Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines fresh vegetables, crunchy noodles, and a flavorful sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout side dish or a light meal on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The vibrant ingredients create a delightful taste experience that will please your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish, main course, or even as a meal prep option for the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and healthy fats from avocado and almonds, this salad is both wholesome and delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s great for gatherings and parties; everyone loves the crunchiness of the ramen noodles!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: Essential for chopping veggies like avocado and mango into bite-sized pieces.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the dressing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

This delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad recipe is tossed with a simple sesame vinaigrette…and tastes absolutely delicious!

Vegetables and Base

• 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)

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

Gather all your ingredients. Wash the vegetables thoroughly. Dice the avocado and julienne the mango.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together:
* Avocado oil
* Honey
* Rice vinegar
* Soy sauce
* Toasted sesame oil
Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

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

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Serve Immediately or Chill

You can serve your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it as a main course or as a side dish, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures.

As a Main Dish

• A hearty option: Serve the salad as a standalone meal topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats: This salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken or steak perfectly.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Perfect for lunch: Pack individual portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

For Potlucks and Gatherings

• Easy to share: This salad is a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings.

With Extra Toppings

• Customize your bowl: Add additional toppings like crispy chow mein noodles or sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Making a great Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Toast the almonds: Lightly toast the sliced almonds before adding them for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Chill before serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust dressing to taste: Feel free to tweak the sesame honey vinaigrette according to your preference. A little more honey can add sweetness, while extra soy sauce can enhance saltiness.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad pairs well with many side dishes that bring additional flavors to your meal. Consider these options when planning your menu:

1. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce complements the salad’s crunchiness beautifully.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a light and refreshing contrast.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds comforting warmth and depth, perfect alongside the crisp salad.
4. Edamame Hummus: Creamy hummus made from edamame provides a unique twist and pairs nicely with crunchy vegetables.
5. Cucumber Kimchi: The tangy spice of kimchi adds an exciting kick that balances the sweetness of the salad.
6. Rice Paper Wraps: Light rice paper wraps filled with herbs offer a fresh, flavorful side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is easy, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the Vinaigrette: A good salad needs dressing. Don’t skip the sesame honey vinaigrette; it enhances flavors and adds moisture.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Ramen noodles should be cooked just right. Overcooked noodles become mushy; follow package instructions for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce makes a big difference. Be sure to use ripe avocado and fresh mango to maximize flavor.
• Ignoring Texture: Texture is key in this salad. Mix crunchy almonds and crisp veggies for a satisfying bite; don’t use soggy ingredients.
• Not Allowing for Marination Time: If possible, let the salad sit before serving. This allows flavors to meld; a short marination improves taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store in an airtight container.
• Item: Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Item: Keep dressing separate if you plan to store leftovers.

Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Item: Not recommended for freezing due to fresh ingredients that may spoil.
• Item: If necessary, freeze only the cooked noodles; other ingredients will not hold up well.

Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking tray and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until heated through without cooking further.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a refreshing dish made with coleslaw mix, ramen noodles, edamame, and a tasty sesame vinaigrette.

Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.

How can I make this salad vegetarian or vegan?

To make your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad vegetarian, simply ensure that any sweeteners used are plant-based. This recipe is already vegan-friendly!

How long does Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a refreshing meal that’s sure to impress!

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Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

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Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together an array of fresh vegetables, crunchy ramen noodles, and a delightful sesame honey vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or quick weeknight dinner, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it both wholesome and satisfying. The combination of textures—crisp veggies, crunchy noodles, and creamy avocado—creates a flavor explosion sure to please your palate. Plus, it can be served as a stand-alone meal or paired with grilled meats for added protein. Enjoy a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious!

• Total Time: 53 minute
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix
• 2 (3-ounce) packages ramen noodles (crumbled)
• 1 cup shelled cooked edamame
• 1 avocado (diced)
• 1 mango (julienned or diced)
• 1/2 cup thinly-sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup green onions (sliced)
• Sesame Honey Vinaigrette: avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients by washing vegetables and chopping the avocado and mango.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine coleslaw mix with crumbled ramen noodles.
4. Add edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
5. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For an extra crunch, lightly toast the almonds before adding them to the salad. Customize your salad by incorporating additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for added flavor and texture. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.