Easy Asian Ramen Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ramen Noodles: I use instant ramen noodles for convenience. You can swap them with whole wheat noodles or rice noodles if you prefer a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary!

Purple Cabbage: This adds color and crunch, but you can use green cabbage or even kale if that’s what you have on hand. The salad will still taste great!

Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and crunch. You can use frozen shredded carrots, but fresh is best for texture. If you don’t have any, bell peppers can also add a nice crunch.

Peanuts: They provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or want a different flavor, try sunflower seeds or toasted almonds as alternatives.

Sesame Oil: This oil gives a rich flavor, but you could use olive oil for a lighter dressing. Just remember to add a touch of sesame seeds for that flavor kick!

How Do I Get the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?

Creating a well-balanced dressing is key to this salad. The dressing should be a harmonious blend of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors. Here’s how to nail it:

• Start with soy sauce for saltiness. Adjust to taste based on personal preference.
• Add rice vinegar for tanginess, balancing out the salty flavor.
• Use sesame oil for richness. Just a little goes a long way!
• Honey or brown sugar offers sweetness; you can always reduce or increase according to taste.
• Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors, so make sure to include it!
• Include ginger and garlic for depth and warmth. Grate them finely for even distribution.
• If you want a kick, add chili flakes or sriracha. Start with a bit and add more if desired.

Once your dressing is ready, give it a taste! Adjust seasoning as needed before tossing it with your salad ingredients.

Easy Asian Ramen Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 2 (3 oz) packages ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
• 1 ½ cups purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrot, julienned or shredded
• 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup roasted peanuts
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Optional: chili flakes or sriracha for heat

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes to let the flavors come together. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight or a get-together!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Noodles:

Begin by breaking the ramen noodles into bite-sized pieces and placing them in a large bowl. You’ll want to set aside about ¼ cup of these noodles for topping later, so remember to keep that portion separate!

2. Mix Vegetables:

Add the shredded purple cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and most of the sliced green onions to the bowl with the noodles. Leave a few green onion slices on the side for a garnish later.

3. Make Dressing:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or brown sugar), fresh lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes or sriracha if you’re using it. This dressing will be the star of your salad!

4. Combine Salad:

Now, pour the prepared dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently using tongs or your hands to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.

5. Add Crunch:

Just before serving, sprinkle the roasted peanuts, the reserved broken ramen pieces, and the toasted sesame seeds on top. You can also add the remaining green onions here for some extra flavor. Toss lightly to combine or leave some on top for a lovely presentation.

6. Serve:

Enjoy the salad immediately, or if you prefer, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. This salad is fantastic as a side dish or you can add grilled chicken or tofu on top for a complete meal!

This Easy Asian Ramen Salad is not only fresh and crunchy, but it’s also bursting with flavor thanks to the sweet and tangy dressing. It’s perfect for easy lunches, potlucks, or just a tasty dinner. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like snap peas, cucumber, or even shredded broccoli. The key is to use fresh veggies for a satisfying crunch.

How Do I Store Leftover Salad?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the noodles may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can also keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance! Just wait to add the peanuts and sesame seeds until right before serving to keep them crunchy. Refrigerate the salad and dressing separately until you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Add for Extra Protein?

You can easily add cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this salad a complete meal. Alternatively, edamame or chickpeas work great for a vegetarian protein boost!