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Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad - Fresh, Crisp, and Addictively Good

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Salad base: 1 small green cabbage (or 1 bag coleslaw mix), 1 cup shredded red cabbage (optional), 2 cups shredded carrots
  • Crunch: 2 packages instant ramen noodles (3-ounce each, flavor packets discarded), 1 cup sliced almonds or chopped cashews, 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
  • Aromatics: 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh add-ins (optional but great): 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced), 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed), 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • Dressing: 1/3 cup neutral oil (avocado, canola, or light olive oil), 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 small garlic clove (grated), 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional), pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Finishing: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, flaky salt and black pepper to taste, lime wedges (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the veg: Thinly slice the cabbage and bell pepper. Shred the carrots if not using a mix. Add to a large mixing bowl with edamame and green onions.
  • Crumble the ramen: Open the ramen packages and discard the seasoning packets. Using your hands, gently crush the noodles into bite-size pieces.
  • Toast the crunch: In a large dry skillet over medium heat, add the crushed ramen, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Stir frequently for 4–6 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool so they stay crisp.
  • Whisk the dressing: In a jar or bowl, combine oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, Dijon, garlic, and ginger if using. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat. Whisk or shake until emulsified. Taste and adjust sweetness, salt, or acidity.
  • Toss just before serving: Add the cooled ramen mixture to the vegetables. Pour in about two-thirds of the dressing and toss well. Add more dressing as needed to lightly coat. You want a glossy salad, not a soggy one.
  • Finish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro. Squeeze over a little lime if you like. Taste and add a pinch of salt and pepper to brighten everything up.