Ramen Salad

Ramen salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This easy-to-make salad combines crunchy vegetables, tender ramen noodles, and a delightful dressing, making it a standout at potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this healthy version of the classic Asian ramen salad will be a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich edamame, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Ramen salad is perfect as a side or a main dish and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
• Flavorful Dressing: The homemade dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the crunchy textures beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck or a family meal, this salad is sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your ramen salad efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here are some essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl (or mason jar)
• Whisk or fork
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for toasting the ramen noodles and almonds evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss all ingredients together easily without spilling.
• Small bowl (or mason jar): Perfect for mixing the dressing, ensuring all flavors blend well.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for slicing vegetables such as scallions and carrots with precision.

Ingredients

A better, healthy version of the original Asian ramen salad with fresh ingredients. Ramen salad is a quick and easy favorite at any potluck!

Main Ingredients

• 1 package ramen noodles (3 ounces)
• 2/3 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 bag coleslaw mix (16 ounces)
• 1 1/2 cups shelled frozen edamame (thawed)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 4 scallions (thinly sliced, both white and green parts)
• 1/2 cup canned mandarin orange segments in light syrup (rinsed and drained)

Dressing Ingredients

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (substitute agave if vegan)
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make Ramen Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 2: Toast the Noodles and Almonds

1. Crumble the ramen noodles onto a baking sheet.
2. Spread them in a single layer along with the sliced almonds.
3. Bake for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from the oven, add sesame seeds, toss gently, then return to bake for an additional 1 to 3 minutes until fragrant and golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl:
1. Combine rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk together until well mixed. Alternatively, you can shake these ingredients in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Toss together coleslaw mix, edamame, shredded carrots, scallions, toasted ramen noodles, and almonds.
2. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top.
3. Toss everything again until combined thoroughly.
4. Sprinkle mandarin orange segments over the top before refrigerating until ready to serve.

Enjoy your deliciously fresh ramen salad!

How to Serve Ramen Salad

Ramen salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether served as a main course or a side at gatherings, it offers a fresh and crunchy taste that everyone loves. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Serve chilled for a refreshing lunch option.
• Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

At Potlucks and Parties

• Present in a large bowl for easy sharing.
• Garnish with extra scallions and sesame seeds for a beautiful touch.

With Additional Proteins

• Add sliced grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Incorporate chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.

As Meal Preps

• Store in individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Ramen Salad

Achieving the perfect ramen salad involves balancing flavors and textures. Here are some simple tips to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables add crunch and flavor, making your salad vibrant and appealing.
• Customize your dressing: Adjust sweetness or tanginess according to your taste by tweaking the honey or vinegar amounts.
• Toast noodles just right: Ensure the ramen noodles are golden brown but not burnt, as this enhances their nutty flavor.
• Incorporate seasonal veggies: Swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to keep the salad interesting throughout the year.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado or crispy wontons for added creaminess and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Ramen Salad

Ramen salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp and veggies offer a light crunch.
2. Edamame Hummus: Creamy edamame hummus served with pita chips adds an Asian flair.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup balances the cold salad perfectly.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies provide smoky flavors that enhance the freshness of the salad.
5. Cucumber Salad: A tangy cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast to the ramen dish.
6. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice can serve as a hearty accompaniment, making it more filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Ramen Salad, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the noodles: This can lead to mushy ramen in your salad. Cook just until al dente, as they will continue to soften when mixed with the dressing.
• Skipping the toasting step: Not toasting the ramen and almonds can result in a bland salad. Toasting adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
• Using stale ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the nuts and seeds, are fresh. Stale items can ruin the salad’s taste.
• Not balancing flavors: Adding too much dressing or not enough can overwhelm or underwhelm your salad. Taste as you go to find the right balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe without considering personal preferences may lead to missed opportunities for flavor enhancement. Experiment with different veggies or proteins!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Ramen Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.

Freezing Ramen Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
• If necessary, store only the noodles and dressing separately for up to 2 months.
• Thaw before serving; add fresh ingredients later.

Reheating Ramen Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ramen Salad.

What makes Ramen Salad healthy?

Ramen Salad is packed with fresh vegetables like coleslaw mix, carrots, and edamame, which provide essential nutrients while keeping calories low.

Can I make Ramen Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

What are some variations of Ramen Salad?

You can customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or swapping out vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Is Ramen Salad suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version of this delicious salad.

How should I serve Ramen Salad?

Serve it chilled as a side dish at picnics or potlucks. It pairs well with grilled meats or as a light lunch option.

Final Thoughts

Ramen Salad is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile and full of flavor. Feel free to customize it according to your tastes by adding different vegetables or proteins. Whether for a potluck or a simple meal at home, this salad is sure to impress!