Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this salad so irresistible is the incredible crunch from the ramen noodles and sunflower seeds paired with the refreshing and slightly sweet dressing. It’s a fantastic dish that can be made in advance and is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a casual dinner. The combination of ingredients is simple but so satisfying, and you can easily customize it with optional additions like shredded chicken or chopped scallions for extra flavor. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this salad will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 24 ounces broccoli slaw
• 12 ounces chicken flavor ramen noodles, uncooked and broken up
• 1 cup craisins
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil

Optional

• Chopped scallions
• Shredded chicken

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the broccoli slaw, broken-up ramen noodles, craisins, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sugar, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable oil until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine. Make sure everything is well-coated with the dressing.
4. If desired, add chopped scallions or shredded chicken to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to marinate. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Nuts: Swap the sunflower seeds for slivered almonds, chopped cashews, or other nuts for a different crunch.
• Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing if you like a little heat in your salad.
• Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables such as diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots to the salad for additional color and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The noodles will remain crunchy as long as it’s refrigerated, but the longer it sits, the softer the ramen noodles will become.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, and it doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of slaw instead of broccoli slaw?

Yes, you can use coleslaw mix or any other shredded vegetable mix you prefer.

2. Can I use a different flavor of ramen noodles?

Yes, you can use any flavor of ramen noodles, but chicken flavor is traditional in this recipe. Just make sure to discard the seasoning packet if you’re using a different flavor.

3. How can I make this salad vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the shredded chicken or use a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.

4. Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. How can I make the salad sweeter or less sweet?

To adjust the sweetness, you can add more sugar for a sweeter salad or reduce the sugar for a less sweet version.

6. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just toss it with the salad ingredients right before serving.

7. Can I use another type of vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is traditional in this recipe, but you can substitute it with rice vinegar or white wine vinegar if necessary.

8. How long can I store leftovers?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. However, the ramen noodles may lose some of their crunch over time.

9. Can I use dried cranberries instead of craisins?

Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries for craisins in this recipe for a less sweet version, or use any dried fruit of your choice.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the ramen noodles typically contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free ramen noodles or a gluten-free noodle alternative if you need to make the recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad is a delightful dish that offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. From the crisp ramen noodles to the tangy dressing and crunchy seeds, it’s an easy-to-make, satisfying dish for any occasion. With endless variations and options for customization, it’s a versatile salad that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table, picnic, or potluck. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s sure to impress!

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