Name: Crispy Oriental Salad with Ramen for Effortless Entertaining
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Green Cabbage (Consider using pre-packaged coleslaw mix for simplicity.); 2 cups Shredded Red Cabbage (Adds vibrant color and sweetness.); 1 cup Shredded Carrots (Enhances the overall crunch.); 2 packs Ramen Noodles (Use raw and broken into small chunks.); ¼ cup Sliced Green Onions (Offers a mild onion flavor.); ¼ cup Toasted Slivered Almonds (Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch.); ½ cup Vegetable Oil (Acts as the base for the dressing.); ¼ cup Rice Vinegar (Brings acidity to balance the flavors.); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Enhances sweetness in the dressing.); 2 packets Ramen Seasoning Packets (Imparts umami flavor.)

As I stood in my kitchen, I caught whiffs of a delightful fusion that stirred memories of vibrant gatherings and warm laughter. This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad, also known as the Oriental Salad with Ramen, is a true reflection of those cherished moments—quickly thrown together yet bursting with personality! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only offers an eye-catching blend of colors but also delivers a satisfying crunch that’s sure to impress your guests. Perfect as a side for any occasion or even as a light main dish, this easy recipe comes together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or simply looking to escape the fast-food rut, this salad is your ticket to bringing a bit of culinary joy back into your life. Curious about how to make it your own? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Ramen Salad a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This delicious salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The mix of crunchy veggies and savory ramen seasoning creates a flavor profile that’s vibrant and refreshing, reminiscent of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.

Versatile Dish: Feel free to experiment! Add proteins like rotisserie chicken or tofu, or swap in your favorite nuts or seeds for a personal touch.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or packing a picnic, this crowd-pleasing salad is guaranteed to impress. Check out my Spring Roll Salad for another exciting side option!

Storage Friendly: It keeps well in the fridge and can even be made a day ahead—just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. You’ll be thanking yourself for this make-ahead magic!

Oriental Salad with Ramen Ingredients

• Get ready to create a refreshing meal that’s both easy and delicious!

For the Salad
• Shredded Green Cabbage – Provides a fresh crunch; consider using pre-packaged coleslaw mix for simplicity.
• Shredded Red Cabbage – Adds vibrant color and a touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
• Shredded Carrots – Introduces natural sweetness and enhances the overall crunch of the salad.
• Ramen Noodles – The salad’s base; use raw and broken into small chunks for the best texture.
• Sliced Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor; swap for chopped cilantro for a different taste.
• Toasted Slivered Almonds – Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch; sunflower seeds or chopped peanuts are great alternatives.

For the Dressing
• Vegetable Oil – Acts as the base for the dressing, providing richness.
• Rice Vinegar – Brings acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Sugar – Enhances sweetness in the dressing, tying all the flavors together.
• Ramen Seasoning Packets – Imparts umami flavor; be sure to use these for an authentic taste of the Oriental Salad with Ramen.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Step 1: Prep Veggies and Noodles
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups each of shredded green and red cabbage, along with 1 cup of shredded carrots. Then, take 2 packs of ramen noodles, break them into small pieces, and add them to the bowl. Lastly, sprinkle in ¼ cup of sliced green onions and ¼ cup of toasted slivered almonds for added crunch. Give everything a gentle toss to mix the veggies and noodles together.

Step 2: Make Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of vegetable oil, ¼ cup of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully combined and the sugar is dissolved. You should achieve a slightly thick and glossy dressing, perfect for coating the salad and enhancing the flavors of your Oriental Salad with Ramen.

Step 3: Combine and Toss
Carefully pour the fragrant dressing over the mixed salad ingredients. Using a spatula or your hands, gently toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing evenly coats every element of the Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad. Look for a colorful blend of veggies that shine with the dressing, creating an inviting and appetizing dish ready for serving.

Step 4: Serve or Chill
If you prefer your salad to maintain maximum crunch, serve it immediately on a large platter. However, if you’d like to prepare it ahead, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld while slightly softening the noodles, making it easy to enjoy this delightful Oriental Salad with Ramen at your next gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and mix the veggies (shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and green onions) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, preserving their freshness and crunch. The toasted slivered almonds can be stored separately to maintain their crispiness. Prepare the dressing by whisking together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and ramen seasoning packets, and refrigerate it for up to 1 week. When it’s time to serve, simply combine the prepped salad components with the dressing, give it a good toss, and you’ll have a vibrant, delicious Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad ready to impress with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Oriental Salad with Ramen

Feel free to infuse your personal touch into this delightful salad with these simple swaps and variations!

Nut-Free: Swap in pumpkin seeds or croutons instead of almonds for crunch without the nuts.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a fiery flavor.
Protein Packed: Toss in grilled chicken or crispy tofu to transform this salad into a filling main dish.
Veggie Lovers: Incorporate diced bell peppers, snap peas, or even corn for added texture and flavor diversity.
Herbaceous Twist: Use cilantro instead of green onions for a fresh herby flavor that dances on your palate.

For more exciting salads, consider trying this vibrant Broccoli Salad Meal or this delightful Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad.

Gluten-Free Delight: Opt for gluten-free ramen to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying that essential crunch.
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lime juice or zest to the dressing for a bright, tangy flavor burst that complements the salad beautifully.

Each variation enhances the original recipe while inviting you to explore flavors and textures that resonate with your tastes. Enjoy the process of customization!

Storage Tips for Oriental Salad with Ramen

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its crispness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Freezer: For best quality, avoid freezing the salad, as the noodles and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating: If you’ve added proteins, gently reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but enjoy the salad cold for maximum crunch and flavor.

Prep Ahead: You can make the Oriental Salad with Ramen a day in advance by prepping the veggies and storing them separately from the dressing.

Expert Tips for Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Keep Ingredients Fresh: Store your salad veggies and dressing separately until serving to ensure the crunch of the Oriental Salad with Ramen remains delightful.
Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to enhance your salad by adding proteins like rotisserie chicken or tofu to create a heartier meal.
Dressing Adjustments: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to your dressing for an exciting kick.
Watch Your Noodles: Avoid over-soaking the ramen in the dressing too long, as this can lead to a mushy texture rather than the desired crunch.
Mix Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, which can add more flavor and nutrition to your salad.

What to Serve with Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad?

Enhance your meal experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement this vibrant, crunchy salad!

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, tender chicken adds heartiness, creating a satisfying balance between protein and the salad’s crunch. Ideal for BBQs and gatherings!
Teriyaki Salmon: The savory and sweet glaze of teriyaki salmon matches beautifully with the tangy salad, making for an exquisite flavor harmony.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light appetizers filled with fresh veggies echo the salad’s crispness, making a wonderful starter to set the tone.
Crispy Tofu Bites: Adding a vegetarian protein option, these crispy bites soak up flavors and provide a delightful crunch with each bite. They pair well with Asian-inspired meals.
Asian Slaw: A simple coleslaw with soy dressing complements the salad’s crunch, making it an ideal side for those looking for a vegetable-forward meal.
Green Tea: A warm cup balances the salad’s refreshing element, offering a gentle finish that refreshes the palate while enhancing the meal’s Asian theme.
Chocolate Biscotti: For dessert, these crisp Italian cookies provide a sweet and satisfying end to your meal, offering a delightful contrast to the salad.
Homemade Mango Sorbet: Light and fruity, the sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a refreshing burst of flavor after the savory components.
Chilled Sake: Perfect for those seeking a traditional pairing, chilled sake enhances the entire dining experience with its delicate flavor profile.

Feel free to mix and match these delights to tailor your feast around the Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad!

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for this salad?
Absolutely! Shredded green cabbage is essential for providing the right crunch and volume, while shredded red cabbage adds vibrant color and slight sweetness. If you’re short on time, consider using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix; it will save you time and ensure a mix of crunchy veggies!

How long can I store the salad in the fridge?
You can store the Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad’s crunchiness, keep the dressing separate from the vegetables until you’re ready to serve. This way, they won’t become soggy, and you can enjoy that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze leftover Ramen Salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the noodles and vegetables will likely become mushy upon thawing. The texture that makes the Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad so enjoyable is lost when frozen. Instead, prepare it as needed or make extra and store it in the fridge for a fresh taste within a few days.

What if I have a nut allergy?
Very! If you or your guests have a nut allergy, simply replace the toasted slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. You can also use croutons for that same satisfying crunch without the nuts. Remember, this salad is super versatile, so feel free to tailor it to your dietary needs!

What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from getting soggy?
For the best texture, keep the dressing and ramen noodles separate until you’re ready to serve. Toss the noodles with the dressing right before serving to maintain that signature crunch. If you’re prepping in advance, store the noodles and dressing in separate containers. When ready to enjoy, simply combine them for a fresh and tasty salad!

Can I add protein to the salad?
Absolutely! To turn this salad into a more filling main dish, you can easily add proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken, diced tofu, or even sliced steak. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas work wonderfully! Just make sure to mix them in right before serving for the best texture, and it’s a delicious way to customize your Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad to suit any meal.