This refreshing Asian Cabbage Ramen Crunch Salad is a burst of color with crispy cabbage, crunchy ramen, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together. Perfect as a side or main dish!
It’s so simple to whip up, and adding that ramen gives it a fun twist! I love to munch on this salad anytime—it’s great for picnics or any gathering. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Using both green and purple cabbage adds color and texture. If you can’t find purple cabbage, just use more green or try napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
Ramen Noodles: The crunch from uncooked ramen adds a fun texture. You can substitute with crispy chow mein noodles or broken crackers if ramen isn’t available.
Nuts: I love peanut crunch, but feel free to swap in sunflower seeds for a nut-free version or use almonds for a different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it or replace it with fresh parsley or even mint for a fresh twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in the Dressing?
Making a delicious dressing is key to bringing this salad alive. It’s all about balancing flavors. Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Start with your oil as a base, and whisk in the rice vinegar for acidity. Adding soy sauce brings in saltiness.
- Sweetness is essential, so honey or sugar helps balance the salty and sour. Adjust to taste!
- To bring depth, include toasted sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
- For heat, sriracha is great, but you can skip it for a milder salad. Mix thoroughly!
Let the dressing sit briefly before adding it to the salad. Trust me; it enhances the flavor!
Easy Asian Cabbage Ramen Crunch Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped snap peas or snow peas, sliced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 package (about 3 oz) uncooked ramen noodles, broken into small pieces (discard seasoning packet)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews, chopped
- 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (adjust for heat preference)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15-20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 10 minutes to mix everything and let the flavors marry together. It’s quick, simple, and super satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped snap peas, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently so all the veggies get mixed up nicely.
2. Add Crunch and Texture:
Now, add the broken ramen noodles, chopped nuts, and both black and white sesame seeds into the salad bowl. Give it a light mix to distribute everything evenly; it’s starting to look colorful and appetizing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha until you have a well-combined dressing. Taste it and adjust the sweetness or spice if needed!
4. Combine and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients with that tasty dressing. Every bite should be packed with flavor!
5. Let It Rest:
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and helps soften the cabbage just a bit.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this salad as a fresh side dish or as a light main course. It’s crunchy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your delightful creation!
FAQ for Easy Asian Cabbage Ramen Crunch Salad
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make the salad a few hours ahead of time! Just keep the ramen noodles and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crunchiness. Mix them in just before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ramen Noodles?
If you don’t have ramen noodles or prefer a different option, you can use crispy chow mein noodles, broken crackers, or even toasted rice noodles. These alternatives will still give you that delightful crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the noodles may lose their crunch after a day, so it’s best to keep the dressing separate if you’re anticipating leftovers.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile, so feel free to add or substitute your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded broccoli for a different flavor and texture profile. Just aim for 6 cups of mixed veggies overall for balance!
