Description
Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw is a vibrant and crunchy salad featuring a mix of broccoli slaw, crisp instant ramen noodles, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful Asian-inspired dressing. Perfect for potlucks or quick lunches, this salad combines a delightful texture and a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with minimal prep and no cooking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 (16 oz) bag broccoli slaw mix
- 2 packages instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage (optional for extra color)
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- ½ cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, sliced
- ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)
Dressing
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli slaw mix, crumbled uncooked ramen noodles, shredded red cabbage if using, toasted sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, sliced green onions, and dried cranberries if desired. Mix well to combine all the components evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Toss and coat: Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the flavorful dressing, distributing flavors evenly throughout the salad.
- Chill before serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and softens the ramen noodles slightly while they retain their crunch.
- Optional toasting for extra crunch: For an enhanced crunchy texture, lightly toast the ramen noodles and sliced almonds in a skillet over medium heat before mixing them into the salad.
- Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing and crunchy side dish or a light meal, ideal for picnics and potlucks.
Notes
- To enhance the crunch, you can toast the ramen noodles and almonds lightly in a skillet before adding them to the salad.
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day to maintain maximum freshness and texture, though it can be prepared a few hours ahead.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, increase honey or sugar to taste.
