Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad

Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad (Mediterranean-Friendly)

Description

This Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a fresh, vibrant bowl packed with crisp vegetables, toasted ramen noodles, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing—lightened up with Mediterranean staples like olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s crunchy, zesty, slightly sweet, and perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or warm-weather meals when you want something refreshing but filling.

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Ingredients

Salad

• 2 packs ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded)

• 3 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded

• 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded

• 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated

• 3 green onions, sliced

• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• ¼ cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds

• Optional protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas

Dressing

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• 1½ tbsp lemon juice or rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger

• 1 small garlic clove, grated

• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Toast the ramen
   Break ramen noodles into small pieces. Toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy. Let cool.

2. Prep the vegetables
   In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, and green onions.

3. Make the dressing
   Whisk olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper until emulsified.

4. Assemble the salad
   Add toasted ramen, almonds or seeds, and fresh herbs to the vegetables.

5. Dress & toss
   Pour dressing over the salad and toss well just before serving.

6. Serve
   Top with protein if using and enjoy immediately for maximum crunch.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a light lunch or dinner

• Pair with grilled fish or chicken

• Bring to potlucks—it stays crisp if dressed last

• Add avocado for a creamy contrast

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Q & A

Q: How do I keep the salad crunchy?
A: Toss the dressing in right before serving. You can prep everything else ahead.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free ramen or crispy rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: It can be—use maple syrup instead of honey and skip animal protein.

Q: Can I meal prep this?
A: Absolutely. Store veggies, noodles, and dressing separately and combine when ready to eat.

Q: Can I add more Mediterranean flavor?
A: Try a splash of lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, or a handful of chopped parsley.