The Unapologetically Delicious Ramen Noodle Salad
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that can effortlessly feed a crowd, and this Ramen Noodle Salad has been my go-to for years. I remember the first time my office requested I bring a dish for a company luncheon. Panic set in – I wanted something impressive, yet I was crunched for time. Then, a memory of a potluck from college surfaced, and this very salad, with its satisfying crunch and sweet-and-tangy dressing, came to mind. It’s the kind of dish that silences the usual lunchtime chatter with its sheer deliciousness, leaving behind only happy sighs and requests for the recipe.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
- Servings: 8-10
- Yield: A generous bowl for a crowd
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian-adaptable (omit seasoning packets if strict)
Ingredients
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on pantry staples and readily available produce. The magic truly happens when these simple components meld together, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.
- 1 (16-ounce) package coleslaw mix
- 2 (3-ounce) packages chicken-flavored ramen noodles
- 1 cup sunflower seeds
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 bunch green onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup canola oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
Equipment Needed
You won’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. The essentials are:
- A large mixing bowl for the salad components.
- A smaller bowl for preparing the dressing.
- A whisk for emulsifying the dressing.
- A lid or plastic wrap for covering the bowls to refrigerate.
Instructions
The beauty of this Ramen Noodle Salad lies in its simplicity, but the overnight chill is non-negotiable for optimal flavor development.
- Begin by emptying the entire coleslaw mix into your large mixing bowl. This forms the crisp, refreshing base of our salad.
- Next, add the chicken-flavored ramen noodles to the same large bowl. It’s crucial to crush the ramen noodles before adding them. You can do this by breaking them up inside their packaging or placing them in a zip-top bag and gently crushing them with your hands or a rolling pin. This ensures they integrate well with the other ingredients and absorb the dressing.
- Now, introduce the sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and thinly sliced green onions to the large bowl. These additions bring a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the noodles beautifully.
- Mix these salad components well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Once combined, cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and set it aside.
- In a separate, smaller bowl, prepare the dressing. Combine the canola oil, sugar, and white vinegar.
- Crucially, add the 2 seasoning packets that came with the ramen noodles to the dressing mixture. These packets are packed with savory flavor and are integral to the salad’s signature taste.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is thoroughly combined. Cover this bowl as well.
- Place both the large bowl of salad ingredients and the smaller bowl of dressing into the refrigerator. Allow them to chill overnight. This is the secret step that allows the flavors to meld and the noodles to soften slightly, absorbing the dressing’s tang.
- When you are ready to serve, remove both bowls from the refrigerator. Re-whisk the dressing to ensure it’s well-emulsified.
- Pour the re-whisked dressing over the salad mixture. Mix well, tossing gently but thoroughly, to ensure every ingredient is coated in the zesty dressing.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of textures and flavors!
Expert Tips & Tricks
To elevate this already fantastic salad, consider these chef-inspired insights:
- Noodle Nuance: While the recipe calls for crushing the ramen noodles, for an extra crunch, you can lightly toast the crushed noodles in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden brown. Let them cool completely before adding to the salad.
- Seed and Nut Variety: Feel free to experiment with different seeds and nuts. Toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or even slivered cashews can add another layer of complexity.
- Dressing Adjustments: If you find the dressing a touch too sweet or tangy, you can always adjust the sugar and vinegar ratios to your preference after the overnight chill. However, trust the recipe’s balance for the first try – it’s been perfected for a reason!
- Make-Ahead Magic: The salad components and dressing can be made separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before combining. This is a lifesaver for busy hosts.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Ramen Noodle Salad is a star performer at potlucks, picnics, and casual gatherings. It stands beautifully on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pork, or even some flaky baked fish.
For serving, a large, attractive serving bowl is ideal. Ensure you give it a good final toss before dishing it out.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for 2-3 days. The textures will soften slightly over time as the noodles continue to absorb the dressing, but the flavor will remain delicious. It’s best served chilled, so no reheating is necessary.
Nutritional Information
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, based on 10 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 514.4 kcal | |
| Total Fat | 38.9 g | 59% |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g | 22% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 260.3 mg | 10% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 36.4 g | 12% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.9 g | 19% |
| Sugars | 15.9 g | 63% |
| Protein | 9.6 g | 19% |
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Variations & Substitutions
While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also a canvas for your culinary creativity:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the chicken-flavored ramen noodle seasoning packets. You can replace them with a vegetarian ramen seasoning packet or a blend of your favorite dried herbs and spices (like garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of ginger, and a dash of soy sauce for umami).
- Protein Boost: Add shredded cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or crispy tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Veggie Power: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers (any color), shredded carrots, or edamame for added color, texture, and nutrients.
- Sesame Zing: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil in the dressing can add a wonderful depth of flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! The salad components and dressing can be prepared separately and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before being combined and served.
Q: What’s the best way to crush the ramen noodles?
A: You can crush them right in their packaging by using your hands or a rolling pin. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush them gently.
Q: Is it okay to use a different type of oil?
A: Canola oil is recommended for its neutral flavor, but other neutral oils like vegetable oil or a mild olive oil can be used. Avoid strongly flavored oils like extra virgin olive oil, as they might overpower the other ingredients.
Q: How long does the salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The texture will change slightly as the noodles absorb more dressing.
Q: Can I add cooked protein to this salad?
A: Absolutely! Shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or crispy tofu are excellent additions that can turn this side dish into a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Ramen Noodle Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. It’s the perfect dish for those moments when you need a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. So, the next time you’re tasked with bringing a dish, or simply craving a uniquely satisfying salad, give this Ramen Noodle Salad a try. I promise it will be met with enthusiastic applause and requests for seconds. Enjoy every crunchy, tangy, and sweet bite!