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.
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