Ramen Noodle Salad : ChefSane

If you’re a fan of instant ramen but want to kick it up a notch while keeping it refreshingly cool, then Ramen Noodle Salad is the dish for you! This salad takes cheap and cheerful instant noodles and transforms them into a fantastic, crunchy explosion of flavours that will leave your taste buds dancing! It’s the perfect dish for those hot summer BBQs, potlucks, picnic parties or simply as a quick and easy lunch break meal. But trust me, it’s not just the ease of this recipe that’ll win you over, it’s the oh-so-delicious, refreshing bowl of noodly goodness. You’ll definitely fall for its bold Asian-inspired flavours.

Behind its simplicity, Ramen Noodle Salad hides a plethora of health benefits, containing lots of fresh vegetables that contribute to your 5 a day. And the best part about it? This salad is super flexible! You can add just about anything you fancy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 1 salad bowl

So without further ado, bring on the salad frenzy! Let’s plunge right into the Ramen Noodle Salad soiree and spice up those humble instant noodles.

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

2 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 cup shredded Napa cabbage
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons honey
A dash of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for those who like it hot!)

As for the equipment, all you’ll need is a large salad bowl, a cutting board, a sharp knife and a microwave (to soften your noodles).

The sesame seeds here are super important, they give off a delightful crunch and a lovely nuttiness. Your veggies provide those essential fresh vibes and the dressing supersedes this salad into a realm of glorious taste. If there’s anything you don’t fancy or have at home, it’s easy to sub. Like cabbage instead of Napa, regular vinegar instead of rice, vegetable oil in place of sesame, and maple syrup for honey.

How To Make Ramen Noodle Salad

First things first, crush your instant noodles (still in the pack to lessen the mess) into small pieces. Discard the seasoning packet. Get your bag of noodles into a microwavable bowl and pour enough boiling water over them just to cover. Steep until they are softened.
While the noodles are softening, take your time to prep the veggies. Julienned bell peppers, sliced green onions, shredded cabbage, carrots. Once done, get them into the large salad bowl.
Now, let��s turn our attention to the show-stopping dressing! Mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and the crushed red pepper flakes to the salad bowl. Give it a nice stir until ingredients are evenly distributed.
Okay, folks, time to drain your noodles. Rinse the noodles under cold running water to cool them down fast and drain well. Add them to the salad bowl too. It’s also the perfect time to sprinkle those sesame seeds.
Give everything a great big stir until all the veggies, noodles, and dressing are mixed well. That’s about it, pals! Your Ramen Noodle Salad is ready to rock and roll! Serve it pronto, or refrigerate for later use. Enjoy!

Tips For The Best Results

Crush your ramen noodles before boiling them �� this helps them absorb the dressing better and makes for a fun texture!
Julienned veggies work best for even distribution and mouthfeel.
If you’re serving this later, reserve some of the dressing to add right before serving �� this keeps it fresh and flavourful.

Storage Tips

Your Ramen Noodle Salad will last in the fridge for 2-3 days. However, the noodles will soften the longer they soak in the dressing.
Avoid freezing as the textures will change drastically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any type of instant noodles?

A: Yes, absolutely. Use your preferred type of instant noodles, but just make sure to discard any seasoning packet.

Q: Can I add proteins to this salad?

A: Definitely! Grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp or even bacon strips work wonderfully.

Q: Is there any other type of cabbage I can use?

A: Yes, you can use regular green or red cabbage instead of Napa.

Q: Can I make this salad spicy?

A: Of course! You can add more red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Q: Can I use alternative sweeteners?

A: Sure thing! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Nutritional Facts of Ramen Noodle Salad

Calories: 255 kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Sodium: 750mg
Fiber: 2g

So there you have it, lads and lasses. Your ultimate guide to sensational Ramen Noodle Salad. It’s a keeper recipe that’s light yet satisfying, with a marvellous medley of flavours. Try it as a side with grilled chicken or tofu for a wholesome meal! See you again with another fantabulous recipe!