Ramen Noodle Salad

This Ramen Noodle Salad is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines crispy ramen noodles, edamame, shredded cabbage, and a tangy peanut dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a light, refreshing main course. With its crunchy texture, sweet mandarin oranges, and savory dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Make ahead and meal prep friendly, it’s ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Salad:

• 2 (3 oz.) packages Ramen noodles, chicken flavor
• ½ cup raw slivered almonds
• 1/3 cup edamame (frozen beans, not pods)
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 11 oz. can mandarin oranges, drained and patted dry
• ¼ cup diced green onions
• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Dressing (makes 1 cup):

• ½ cup peanut oil (or avocado, vegetable, or canola oil)
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 2 ramen seasoning packets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mini food processor or jar with a lid, combine the dressing ingredients. Blend or shake well to emulsify and mix thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate.
3. Break the ramen noodles into chunks of varying bite sizes and spread them out on a baking dish with the slivered almonds. (If your almonds are already toasted, skip this step.)
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly toasted. (Mine typically take 13 minutes.) Set aside to cool.
5. Run the frozen edamame under cool water until thawed, then pat dry with a paper towel.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooled ramen noodles, toasted almonds, edamame, cabbage, carrots, mandarin oranges, green onions, and sesame seeds.
7. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad, then use kitchen tongs to toss everything together until evenly coated.
8. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant and flavorful combination of crunchy cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, and savory ramen noodles, all tossed in a tangy peanut dressing. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Tips

• Make Ahead: The salad benefits from chilling for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to develop. If you have more time, it can sit in the fridge overnight.
• Toast Carefully: Keep an eye on the ramen noodles and almonds while baking. They can burn quickly, so it’s important to check frequently.
• Dressing Emulsification: Ensure your dressing is well emulsified to prevent separation. Using a mini food processor or shaking it in a jar works best for this.
• Crunch Factor: The toasted almonds and sesame seeds provide a nice contrast to the softer cabbage and noodles. Make sure to include both for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan: To make this salad vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave, and use a plant-based oil like avocado or canola oil.
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free ramen noodles or substitute with rice noodles if preferred.
• Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for extra protein.
• Flavor Boost: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of soy sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is great for meal prep. Make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may soften, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Can I freeze the salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing the salad as the texture of the cabbage, mandarin oranges, and dressing may not hold up well once thawed.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve as a Side: Pair this salad with grilled meats, seafood, or a BBQ spread for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds on top just before serving for added crunch.
• Drink Pairing: This salad goes wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea or a light, crisp white wine.