Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe

Looking for a salad that’s crunchy, colorful, and ridiculously quick to throw together? This Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is about to become your favorite go-to! With vibrant coleslaw, a punchy sesame-soy dressing, and plenty of fun mix-ins, this dish tastes as lively as it looks. The best part? It comes together in minutes—no cooking required—making it the perfect answer to busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The flavors pop with every bite, blending sweet, tangy, savory, and nutty notes for a salad that’s never boring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these easy-to-find ingredients and see how each one plays its part!

• Coleslaw Mix: Pre-shredded cabbage and carrots keep things fast and add crunch and color.
• Dry Ramen Noodles: Adds a surprisingly fun, toasty crunch—no need to cook, just crumble!
• Mandarin Oranges: These little bursts of citrus sweetness balance out the savory and tangy notes.
• Edamame Beans: Protein-rich, slightly nutty, and they add a little pop to each mouthful.
• Green Onions: For a fresh, mild onion kick—whites and greens alike.
• Slivered Almonds: Nutty crunch (substitute walnuts or pecans if preferred or for allergies).
• Black Sesame Seeds: Add deep, toasty flavor and striking looks.
• Seasoned Rice Vinegar: The tangy, slightly sweet base of your dressing.
• Vegetable or Grapeseed Oil: A neutral oil helps mellow and carry flavors throughout.
• Light Soy Sauce: Brings that unmistakable savory umami to tie everything together.
• Sugar: Just a touch, to balance the dressing perfectly.
• Sesame Oil: For a deeply aromatic, nutty finish—don’t skip, but adjust to taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a little, to taste, for subtle heat.

Variations

There’s no limit to how you can riff on this recipe—make it yours!

• Vegetarian Main: Add cubed baked tofu or chickpeas for extra plant protein.
• Make it Spicy: Toss in a dash of Sriracha, thinly sliced red chili, or extra black pepper.
• Go Nut-Free: Use toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas for all the crunch, minus the nuts.
• Swap the Citrus: Try pineapple chunks or fresh mango if mandarins aren’t on hand.
• Ramen Options: Any type of dry instant ramen works; skip the flavor packet.

How to Make Asian Ramen Noodle Salad

Here’s just how fast and simply this comes together.

Step 1: Prep Your Base

Add coleslaw mix to a large mixing bowl. Crumble the dry ramen noodles right over the top with your hands—no need for perfection, some big, some small is just right.

Step 2: Mix in the Good Stuff

Toss in the drained mandarin oranges, thawed edamame, chopped green onions, slivered almonds, and black sesame seeds. Give it all a quick toss so the flavors start to mingle.

Step 3: Whip Up the Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together seasoned rice vinegar, your oil of choice, light soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and a little freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Make it Come Alive

Pour the dressing over the slaw. Toss well to coat everything thoroughly.

Step 5: Let It Meld

For the best flavor and perfect texture, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This lets those noodles soften just a bit, but still keeps their signature crunch.

How to Serve

This salad is as versatile as it is delicious!

• On Its Own: Makes a satisfying light meal or an excellent desk lunch.
• As a Side: Pairs beautifully with grilled teriyaki chicken, salmon, or even barbecue.
• Potluck Perfection: Always a crowd-pleaser at picnics, potlucks, and parties—no limp lettuce here!
• Wrap It Up: Spoon into lettuce cups or tortillas for a crunchy, hand-held snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles will soften but still retain a pleasing texture and the flavors will continue to meld.

Freezing

Not recommended for freezing—fresh is best for this crisp salad, as freezing will change the texture.

Reheating

No reheating necessary! Enjoy straight from the fridge. If the salad seems dry after standing, a splash of vinegar or another drizzle of dressing freshens it up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about this Asian Ramen Noodle Salad that makes it show up again and again in busy households. It’s speedy, colorful, and bursting with unique flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a cheerful lunchbox, or a gathering with friends, it always disappears fast! Don’t hesitate to adapt and play with the ingredients—this recipe is as flexible as your cravings. You’re going to love just how simple and tasty it is. Give it a try soon—you might find it becomes your weeknight favorite, too.

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