Name: Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen That Everyone Loves
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded green cabbage (adds volume and crunch); 1 cup shredded red cabbage (provides color and extra crunch); 1 cup shredded carrots (introduces sweetness and color); 2 packs (3 oz each) ramen noodles (add raw for best crunch); ¼ cup sliced green onions (contributes freshness); ½ cup toasted slivered almonds (offers nuttiness and crunch); ⅓ cup vegetable oil (base for the dressing); ¼ cup rice vinegar (brings acidity); 2 tablespoons sugar (sweetens the dressing); 2 packets seasoning from ramen noodles (infuses umami flavor)

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While rummaging through my pantry one sunny afternoon, a forgotten treasure caught my eye — a couple of packs of ramen noodles. This led me to create a fabulous Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad with vibrant colors and fresh vegetables that practically dance on your plate. Not only is this Oriental Salad with Ramen a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes, but it’s also the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks and gatherings. Imagine the delicious crunch of raw noodles mingling with crisp cabbage and carrots, all tossed in a zesty dressing that’s easily customizable to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick side or a delightful main dish, this salad is bursting with texture and flavor, so why not give it a try at your next gathering? What delicious twists will you add to make it your own?

Why is Ramen Salad So Addictive?

Vibrant Colors: This Crunchy Oriental Salad bursts with hues from fresh vegetables, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Time-Saver: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies; consider bell peppers or snap peas for an extra crunch.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at potlucks or family dinners, this salad is sure to impress guests and become an instant favorite.

Easy Prep: Simply mix, toss, and serve—no complicated steps here! Serve it alongside other fresh options like Watermelon Berry Salad or Strawberry Spinach Salad for a vibrant meal.

Oriental Salad with Ramen Ingredients

• Elevate your next potluck with these vibrant key ingredients!

For the Salad

Shredded Green Cabbage – Adds volume and crunch; bagged slaw mix makes it super easy.
Shredded Red Cabbage – Provides color and extra crunch; feel free to use more green cabbage as a substitute.
Shredded Carrots – Introduces sweetness and vibrant color; swap with shredded bell peppers for a twist.
Ramen Noodles (2 packs, 3 oz each) – The star of this Oriental Salad with Ramen; add them raw for the best crunch.
Sliced Green Onions – Contributes freshness and a mild onion flavor; use chopped cilantro for a herby touch if desired.
Toasted Slivered Almonds – Offers nuttiness and crunch; sunflower seeds are a great alternative for variety.

For the Dressing

Vegetable Oil – Acts as the base for the dressing to provide richness; olive oil can offer a different flavor.
Rice Vinegar – Brings acidity to the dressing; apple cider vinegar is a good substitute if needed.
Sugar (2 tablespoons) – Sweetens the dressing; can be reduced or swapped with honey for a natural touch.
Seasoning Packets from Ramen Noodles (2) – Infuses the dressing with umami flavor; don’t forget to use the flavor packets that come with the noodles.

With these ingredients, you’re not just creating a salad; you’re crafting a delicious experience that will tantalize your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen

Step 1: Prep Veggies and Noodles
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded green cabbage, 1 cup of shredded red cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, and 2 packs of raw ramen noodles (broken into pieces). Toss in ¼ cup of sliced green onions and ½ cup of toasted slivered almonds for added crunch. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a colorful base for your Oriental Salad with Ramen.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, ¼ cup of rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until well combined. Open the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles and add them to the mixture, ensuring you get that delicious umami flavor. Continue to whisk for about 30 seconds or until the dressing is emulsified and slightly thickened, ready to elevate your salad.

Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl, ensuring all the noodles and veggies are coated. Use tongs or salad spoons to gently toss everything together for about 1 minute. You’ll notice the vibrant colors of the Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen coming together beautifully as the dressing clings to each ingredient, creating a mouthwatering sight.

Step 4: Serve or Chill
Serve the salad immediately for maximum crunch, as the raw ramen noodles provide a delightful texture. If you prefer to let the flavors meld, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours. Just remember to give it a good toss again before serving, ensuring it’s fresh and vibrant when it reaches the table.

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can chop the vegetables (green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the dressing can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 1 week. To maintain the salad’s signature crunch, it’s best to mix the raw ramen noodles just before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing, toss well, and savor the refreshing, vibrant flavors of your Oriental Salad with Ramen!

Variations & Substitutions for Oriental Salad with Ramen

Feel free to personalize this delightful salad with a variety of tasty swaps and flavorful twists to make it truly yours.

Nut-Free: Omit slivered almonds and use crispy chickpeas or croutons for crunch without nuts.
Vegetable Boost: Add in colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded broccoli for extra flavor and vibrant color!

Mixing different textures can enhance your salad experience. Don’t shy away from experimenting with whatever fresh veggies you have in the fridge!
Spicy Kick: Include a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes in the dressing for an exciting heat that elevates the flavors.

Your salad can transform into a zesty delight. Coupling the spice with the sweetness of the dressing creates a beautiful balance!
Vegan Option: Substitute honey with agave syrup for a fully vegan dressing that still delivers the sweetness!

Every little adjustment adds depth to your dish. Keep exploring plant-based ingredients that align with your dietary choices.
Whole Wheat Ramen: Swap regular ramen noodles for whole wheat varieties for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor.
Flavor Twist: Incorporate lime juice along with rice vinegar for a fresh citrusy zing that brightens up the dressing!

This small addition can uplift the entire dish. Your guests might just ask for the secret ingredient!
Protein Additions: Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or cubed tofu to turn this side salad into a satisfying main course.

It becomes a complete meal that your loved ones will rave about. Perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners!

Feel free to explore other vibrant dishes like Cranberry Rigatoni Salad or Tropical Fruit Salad that might inspire you to create endless possibilities!

What to Serve with Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen?

This delightful side dish is overflowing with flavors and textures that can beautifully complement a variety of meals.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: The smoky flavor and tender texture enhance the salad’s crunch while providing a satisfying protein addition. Perfect for the grill master in your family!
Teriyaki Salmon: This rich, sweet fish pairs beautifully with the salad’s tangy dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate.
Shrimp Spring Rolls: Light and refreshing, these rolls add a lovely touch of brightness and a contrasting texture, making for a delightful Asian-inspired meal.
Stuffed Peppers: The hearty, savory filling of stuffed peppers offers a wonderful contrast to the crispy salad, creating a well-rounded plate.
Spicy Tofu Bites: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, spicy tofu adds a punch of flavor that complements the salad’s vibrant zing and crunch.
Sesame Ginger Dressing Drizzle: For those who love a little extra flavor, a drizzle of this dressing over the salad ties everything together, deepening the umami experience.
Mango Slices: The sweet juiciness of ripe mangoes balances the salad’s crunch, providing a fresh and fruity contrast that enhances every bite.
Green Tea Ice Cream: Cap off the meal with a scoop of this creamy dessert, which offers a refreshing endnote while echoing the salad’s Asian flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunch of the noodles, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the Oriental Salad with Ramen will suffer; the noodles will become mushy upon thawing.

Dressing Storage: You can prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it for up to 1 week in a sealed container. Shake well before using.

Reheating: Since this salad is meant to be served cold, no reheating is necessary; simply toss and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Avoid Cooking Noodles: Remember, to achieve the perfect crunch in your Oriental Salad with Ramen, always add the ramen noodles raw. Cooking them will turn them mushy!
Serve Fresh: For an optimum crunchy texture, mix the dressing with the salad just before serving. This will keep the noodles from getting soggy.
Keep Dressing Separate: If you’re preparing this for a large gathering, store the dressing separately until it’s time to serve. This simple step keeps the salad crisp and delightful!
Flavor Twists: Don’t hesitate to customize your salad! Incorporate additional veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, or try adding protein like chicken or tofu to make it heartier.
Dress it Up: Experiment with different oils or vinegars in your dressing; for instance, swap the vegetable oil for sesame oil for a richer, nutty taste.

Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right vegetables for my Ramen Salad?
Absolutely! Freshness is key when selecting vegetables. Look for vibrant, crisp cabbage; the leaves should be tightly packed. When it comes to carrots or bell peppers, aim for those without bruises or dark spots. The more colorful the better, as it adds appeal and nutrients to your Crunchy Oriental Salad with Ramen!

How should I store the Ramen Salad?
For storage, place your assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, to keep the noodles crunchy, it’s best to store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. Just give it a good toss before enjoying your vibrant salad!

Can I freeze the Ramen Salad?
Freezing this salad isn’t recommended. The texture will change, leaving the noodles mushy when thawed. Instead, prepare it fresh or store in the fridge for a short period. Remember, keeping the dressing separate preserves that delightful crunch!

What if my salad turns out soggy?
If your salad becomes soggy, it’s likely that the dressing was added too early. To prevent this, always mix the dressing with the salad right before serving. If it’s already soggy, add fresh raw ramen noodles to restore a bit of crunch. You can also try to drain excess liquid from the salad.

Is this Ramen Salad safe for those with food allergies?
Of course! While the salad is vegetarian and can be made vegan, always be cautious about allergies related to nuts or seeds if you’re adding toasted slivered almonds. You can easily substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. Always check your ingredients for any other allergens, especially store-bought products like dressing or noodles.