Original Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe -

Original Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe

Ramen noodles are often associated with quick, comforting soups but did you know they can also transform your typical greens-based salad into an unexpectedly zesty cold pasta dish? With Asian-inspired flavors like ginger, soy sauce and sesame, a ramen noodle salad offers an unconventional yet gratifying use for those ubiquitous noodle packs.

While ramen is traditionally prepared by simply cooking the noodles in boiling water, in this recipe they take on a new life as the foundation for a vibrant salad. The thin noodles soak up the bright flavors of the dressing yet retain a pleasant bite and texture when tossed with the vegetables.

Cabbage and Ramen Noodle Salad

Green cabbage lightens the dish with its mild crunch, and shredded carrots add beta-carotene-rich sweetness. For those seeking protein, diced tofu or hard-boiled eggs could be included.

This innovative recipe forgoes the usual mayonnaise-based salad dressings in favor of a zingy Asian vinaigrette made from rice vinegar, ginger, and soy sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty richness to each bite.

Together, these elements meld to create an unexpectedly sophisticated salad using a most humble ingredient – ramen noodles. Best of all, with its simple preparation and readily available components, this ramen noodle salad offers an easy yet satisfying meal option.

Whether as a light lunch or a hearty side, this ramen noodle salad brings an unexpected twist to the pasta salad formula. Its fresh blend of textures and lively flavors will have you rethinking ramen noodles in an entirely new light. Don’t be surprised if this creative recipe becomes a new favorite way to enjoy the familiar fare of noodles and greens.

Ramen Salad Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
4 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup chopped cilantro

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Recipe for Ramen Noodle Salad

Preparation of Ramen Noodles:

Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil.
Add the ramen noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes.
Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Set aside to cool.

Toasting the Almonds and Sesame Seeds:

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds and sesame seeds until they are golden and fragrant.
Remove from heat and let them cool.

Assembling the Ramen Pasta Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
Add the cooled ramen noodles to the bowl and toss to combine.
Sprinkle in the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro.

Preparing the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes (if using).
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Chilling and Serving:

Cover the salad using ramen noodles and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and serve cold as a delightful cold ramen noodle salad.

Experience the perfect blend of Asian flavors with this top ramen Asian salad. The combination of crunchy vegetables, nutty ramen noodles, and flavorful dressing makes this Asian noodle salad with ramen a crowd-pleaser. This Asian ramen noodle salad recipe is a refreshing twist on traditional cold salad recipes with ramen noodles.

FAQs Best Ramen Noodle Salad

How do I make an authentic ramen noodle salad from scratch?

To create an authentic ramen noodle salad, start by cooking the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.

Then, mix the noodles with a variety of fresh vegetables like shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions. For added crunch, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or nuts. Finally, dress the salad with a flavorful combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey or sugar for sweetness. Voila! You have a delicious and original ramen noodle salad ready to enjoy.

Can I customize the ingredients in my ramen noodle salad?

Absolutely! One of the beauties of making ramen noodle salad is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. You can also add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more substantial.

Additionally, try incorporating different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile. The key is to have fun and tailor the ingredients to suit your taste buds.

How long can I store leftover ramen noodle salad?

Leftover ramen noodle salad can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

However, it’s worth noting that the noodles may absorb some of the dressing over time, potentially softening the texture. To refresh the salad, you can add a bit more dressing before serving. Just be sure to give it a good toss to redistribute the flavors.

Are there any variations I can try to put a unique spin on the classic ramen noodle salad?

Absolutely! Get creative with your ramen noodle salad by experimenting with different flavor profiles and ingredients. For instance, you could swap out the traditional Asian-inspired dressing for a zesty Thai peanut sauce or a tangy barbecue vinaigrette.

Consider adding fruit like mandarin oranges or pineapple for a refreshing twist, or mix in crunchy toppings like fried wonton strips or crispy bacon bits for added texture. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to let your culinary imagination run wild!

What goes with ramen noodles?

Ramen noodles pair well with a variety of ingredients such as sliced green onions, soft-boiled eggs, thinly sliced pork or chicken, bean sprouts, and nori (seaweed). Additionally, you can add vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or corn for added flavor and texture.