Chinese Noodle Salad Recipe Ramen: A Crunchy, Flavorful Adventure

Zesty, vibrant, and packed with textures, this Chinese noodle salad recipe ramen is your ticket to a quick, delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for those who love a bit of crunch with their lunch, this dish is a playful twist on traditional ramen.

Why This Recipe Works

• The combination of cold, crunchy vegetables with soft, chewy ramen noodles creates a delightful contrast in textures.
• A tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy dressing brings all the components together harmoniously.
• It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations based on what you have in your fridge.
• Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• The use of ramen noodles adds an unexpected twist, turning a simple salad into a conversation starter.

Ingredients

• 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• For the dressing: 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Colander

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook for exactly 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Tip: Rinsing the noodles with cold water not only cools them down but also removes excess starch, preventing clumping.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Tip: For a smoother dressing, you can blend all the ingredients together in a blender for a few seconds.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled noodles with the shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Tip: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for an extra crunch. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour for a cooler salad experience.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate their Chinese noodle salad recipe ramen, consider toasting the peanuts before chopping them for a deeper flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, basil or mint can be great substitutes. For a protein boost, add shredded chicken or tofu. The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making meal prep a breeze. Lastly, if you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the honey to 2 tablespoons.

Recipe Variations

• Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Swap the peanuts for cashews or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Include a protein like grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
• For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
• Use soba noodles instead of ramen for a whole grain option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately a day in advance. Just combine them and add the peanuts right before serving to maintain the crunch.

Is there a substitute for ramen noodles?

Yes, soba noodles, udon, or even spaghetti can work as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ramen noodles and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Summary

This Chinese noodle salad recipe ramen is a quick, flavorful dish that combines crunchy vegetables with chewy noodles and a tangy dressing. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.