Can I use the ramen seasoning packets in this recipe?

I recommend skipping the seasoning packets as they contain a lot of sodium and would overpower the delicate balance of the homemade dressing. However, if you really want to use them, you could mix a small portion into the dressing for extra flavor - just reduce the added salt accordingly.

How do I keep the salad crunchy if I need to make it in advance?

The key is keeping the components separate until serving time. Prepare the vegetables and dressing and refrigerate them separately. Store the toasted ramen-almond mixture in an airtight container at room temperature. Combine everything just before serving to maintain maximum crunch.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the ramen noodles with gluten-free rice noodles that have been broken and toasted in the same way. Also double-check that your soy sauce (if used in any variations) is gluten-free, as traditional soy sauce contains wheat.

What protein works best if I want to make this a complete meal?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken marinated in a similar flavor profile (try soy sauce, honey, and ginger). For vegetarian options, edamame or tofu work wonderfully. Shrimp is another excellent choice that cooks quickly and complements the Asian flavors perfectly.

Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe

Name: Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds tri-color coleslaw; 8 ounces fresh snow peas, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 15 ounces mandarin oranges, drained well; 8 ounces diced water chestnuts, drained well; 4 green onions, sliced (green parts only); 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 packages (3 ounces each) ramen noodles, crushed; 1 & 1/2 cups sliced almonds; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 6 tablespoons granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Description

This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a perfect blend of crisp, fresh vegetables, tangy-sweet dressing, and a nutty crunch from toasted almonds and ramen noodles. Bursting with textures and flavors, this vibrant salad is ideal for potlucks, parties, or as a refreshing side dish. A versatile dish with an Asian-inspired flair, it’s sure to impress every time.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Salad:

2 pounds tri-color coleslaw
8 ounces fresh snow peas, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
15 ounces mandarin oranges, drained well
8 ounces diced water chestnuts, drained well
4 green onions, sliced (green parts only)
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Noodle-Almond Mixture:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 packages (3 ounces each) ramen noodles, crushed
1 & 1/2 cups sliced almonds

Dressing:

1/2 cup vegetable oil
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions

Toast the Noodle-Almond Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the crushed ramen noodles and sliced almonds. Cook them while stirring frequently until they are toasted and lightly golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a plate to stop the cooking process and set aside.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, toasted sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You can let this sit while preparing the rest of the salad to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the tri-color coleslaw, sliced snow peas, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, mandarin oranges, diced water chestnuts, green onions, chopped cilantro, and the toasted noodle-almond mixture.
Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately garnished with sesame seeds if you like.

Notes

Toast the Noodles: Toasting the noodles and almonds enhances their nutty flavor and crunch. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
Make-Ahead Tip: For maximum crunch, store the noodle-almond mixture separately and add it just before serving if you’re not eating the salad immediately.
Customize Veggies: You can substitute or add any vegetables you prefer, such as shredded carrots or chopped cucumbers, for more variety.
Chill for Flavor: Let the salad rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the melding of flavors.
Storage Tip: This salad is best served fresh. If storing, keep the dressing and crunchy ingredients separate for up to one day.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories: 250kcal
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg