The Best Ramen Noodle Salad

Introduction:
Discover the perfect balance of crunchy, tangy, and savory with this Best Ramen Noodle Salad. This versatile salad features crisp vegetables, crunchy ramen noodles, and a flavorful sesame dressing. Ideal as a refreshing side dish or a light main course, it’s sure to become a favorite for potlucks, picnics, and everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crunchy and Fresh: Enjoy a delightful crunch with each bite from the ramen noodles and fresh veggies.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make it a breeze to whip up.
• Flavorful: The tangy sesame dressing brings everything together in a deliciously satisfying way.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your choice of vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 package (3 oz) ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup snap peas or snow peas, sliced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ramen Noodles:

• Break the ramen noodles into small pieces. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, snap peas, and green onions. Toss to mix.

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Add sesame seeds if using.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• Just before serving, add the toasted ramen noodles and sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (if using) to the vegetable mixture.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

1. Serve:

• Serve immediately for the best crunch. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the salad for up to 1 hour before serving, but be sure to add the ramen noodles just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.

Tips for Success:

• Noodle Texture: Toasting the noodles enhances their crunchiness. Be careful not to over-toast them to avoid burning.
• Dressing: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing according to your taste preferences.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

Recipe Variations:

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
• Spicy Version: Add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Toss in fresh cilantro or mint for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a main course with additional protein.
• Pair with a simple Asian-inspired dish or enjoy on its own for a light lunch.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the noodles separate if possible to maintain their crunch.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the noodles and vegetables can become soggy upon thawing.

Special Equipment:

• Skillet: For toasting the ramen noodles.
• Large Bowl: For mixing the salad ingredients.

FAQ:

• Can I use a different type of noodle?
  Yes, you can use soba noodles, rice noodles, or any other favorite noodle, though cooking and preparation times may vary.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
  You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the noodles crispy.
• Is this salad gluten-free?
  To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check the label on the ramen noodles to ensure they meet gluten-free requirements.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping vegetables and making the dressing.
• 10 minutes for toasting the noodles.

Cook Time:

• 5 minutes for toasting the noodles.

Total Time:

• 20-25 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g

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Closing Notes:
Have you tried this Best Ramen Noodle Salad? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations and check back for more tasty recipes.