Imagine a salad that's not just healthy, but explosively delicious – a dish that combines the crisp freshness of cabbage with the unexpected crunch of toasted ramen noodles and almonds. This Asian Ramen Cabbage Salad is about to become your new obsession, promising a flavor journey that will make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests beg for the recipe. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, texture-packed salad that's part Asian-inspired masterpiece, part comfort food marvel.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 packages of ramen noodles
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ramen noodles by removing seasoning packets. Break the dry noodles into small, bite-sized pieces while they are still in the package.
- In a large skillet or dry pan, toast the broken ramen noodles and sliced almonds over medium heat, stirring constantly until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
- Create the dressing by whisking together rice vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl until well combined and sugar is dissolved.
- Add the toasted ramen noodles and almonds to the vegetable mixture.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the salad for additional texture and flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Just before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Tips
- For maximum crunch, make sure to toast the ramen noodles and almonds carefully – watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu.
- If you prefer a less sweet dressing, adjust the sugar to taste.
- Use unseasoned ramen noodles or discard the seasoning packet for a cleaner flavor profile.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
