Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it perfect for any gathering or as a refreshing side dish. With its vibrant colors and crispy elements, this salad not only looks appealing but also delivers a burst of taste in every bite. Tossed with a light sesame vinaigrette, it’s a delicious way to enjoy healthy ingredients while satisfying your cravings. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or everyday meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich edamame, it’s a wholesome choice that supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or add grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal. The options are endless!
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The sesame honey vinaigrette enhances the crunchiness of the salad while adding a touch of sweetness and tang.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the salad ahead of time and dress it right before serving to maintain its crunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for tossing the salad without spilling ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps combine the vinaigrette ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

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 Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, combine the avocado oil, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk until well blended and smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with crumbled ramen noodles.
2. Add in shelled edamame, diced avocado, julienned mango, sliced almonds, and green onions.
3. Drizzle half of the prepared vinaigrette over the salad.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with dressing.
2. Taste and add more vinaigrette if desired.
3. Serve immediately for maximum crunch!

Enjoy your refreshing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad as an exciting addition to your meal!

How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Serving Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is simple and versatile. This salad can be enjoyed as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables to add more color and nutrients.

As a Main Course

• Top with grilled shrimp for a protein boost.
• Add shredded rotisserie chicken for an easy, hearty option.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Layer ingredients separately to keep the noodles crunchy until you’re ready to eat.

How to Perfect Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Perfecting your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even more delightful experience.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and ripe avocado make the salad vibrant and tasty.
• Crunch factor: Toast the almonds before adding them for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Make ahead: Prepare the vinaigrette in advance, allowing flavors to meld together before serving.
• Customize: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers based on your preference.
• Mix it well: Toss the salad thoroughly before serving to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and flavor; perfect for grilling on warm days.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and fresh rolls offer a delightful crunch alongside the salad.
3. Teriyaki Glazed Tofu: A great vegetarian option that adds heartiness and umami flavors.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad brings a cool contrast to the crispy ramen noodles.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet balance to the savory elements of the salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, making it a perfect companion for any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes when preparing your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad ensures a delicious result every time.

• Skipping the dressing: Don’t forget to toss the salad with the sesame honey vinaigrette before serving. This is essential for flavor.
• Using the seasoning packet: Avoid adding the ramen seasoning packet, as it can overpower the salad. Instead, focus on fresh ingredients.
• Not letting it chill: For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Overdressing the salad: Use just enough dressing to coat the ingredients lightly. Too much can make the salad soggy.
• Neglecting texture: To maintain crunchiness, add nuts and crunchy elements just before serving. This prevents them from becoming soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The salad is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of preparation.

Freezing Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may affect texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad.

Can I customize my Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or nuts for a personal touch.

What can I use instead of ramen noodles?

You can experiment with other noodle types like soba noodles or rice noodles if you prefer something different.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep as it stays fresh and flavorful when stored properly in the refrigerator.

How do I make this Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad spicier?

To add heat, include sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha in your sesame honey vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Try making this refreshing salad today and enjoy its delightful crunch!