Bright Summer Ramen Salad Recipe

Enjoy a healthier version of Ramen Salad with crunchy cabbage, juicy oranges, and toasted almonds, all dressed in a homemade savoury-sweet sauce.

Ramen Salad Recipe

Ramen Salad is a classic potluck staple, especially beloved in the Midwest. This particular recipe introduces a healthier twist to the nostalgic dish without compromising the addictive crunch and flavour. Fresh greens, sweet mandarin oranges, and toasted almonds provide a delicious melody of textures, while the innovative dressing ties it all together with a savoury-sweet appeal.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 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

For the Dressing

• 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 black pepper

Instructions

• Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Crumble the ramen noodles onto a baking sheet and spread them in a single layer along with the almonds.
• Bake for 5 minutes, remove from the oven, add the sesame seeds, and toss, then bake for 1 to 3 additional minutes until fragrant and golden. Watch closely so that the mixture does not burn. Set aside.
• In a small bowl, briskly stir together all of the dressing ingredients: rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. (Alternatively, you can shake them together in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.)
• In a serving bowl, toss together the coleslaw, edamame, carrots, scallions, and toasted ramen and almonds.
• Drizzle the dressing over the top, then toss again to combine. Sprinkle the oranges over the top, then refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

• Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• Steamed Dumplings
• Miso Soup
• Sushi Rolls

Tips and Tricks

• Using a pre-made mix saves time, but you can also shred fresh cabbage and carrots for a fresher taste.
• Add edamame or other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Toast the ramen noodles for extra crunchiness before adding them to the salad.
• Don’t skip toasting the almonds and sesame seeds; it enhances their flavor.