Ramen Noodle Salad

A crisp, sweet-savory, and crunchy Asian-inspired salad with toasted ramen, almonds, sesame seeds, and a vibrant dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side.

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 (3 oz) package ramen noodles (any flavor), uncooked and crushed (discard seasoning packet or save for another use)

• ½ cup slivered almonds

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• ½ teaspoon sesame oil

For the Salad:

• 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (or 6 cups shredded cabbage/carrots)

• 4 green onions, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil or neutral oil (avocado, grapeseed)

• ¼ cup rice vinegar

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)

• Optional: 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Toast the Crunchy Topping

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.

2. Add crushed ramen noodles, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds. Toast, stirring often, until golden and fragrant (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Drizzle with sesame oil, stir, and remove from heat. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Dressing

1. In a jar or small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar until sugar dissolves. Add optional ginger or garlic if using.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, green onions, and cilantro.

2. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to coat.

3. Just before serving, add the cooled crunchy topping and gently toss to combine (adding it too soon will make it soggy).

📌 Tips for Success

• Keep topping separate until ready to serve for maximum crunch.

• For extra flavor, add cooked shredded chicken, edamame, or mandarin orange segments.

• Adjust sweetness/tang by varying sugar or vinegar amounts to taste.

• Can be made ahead: prep dressing and topping separately, store in airtight containers, and combine just before serving.

🥡 Storage

• Leftovers will lose crunch but will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days (store topping separately if possible).

This Ramen Noodle Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its irresistible mix of textures and bright flavors. Enjoy! 🥗✨