Why You’ll Love this Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a revitalizing main course, this Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad is about to become your new go-to recipe. I’m obsessed with how those broken ramen noodles add the perfect crunch against the crisp cabbage.
The beauty? It’s incredibly versatile. That sweet-tangy dressing with the chicken flavoring packet creates magic when tossed with the nutty almonds and sunflower seeds. Can you imagine a more satisfying blend of textures? Plus, it takes just minutes to throw together—no cooking required! Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or those nights when turning on the stove feels like too much work.
What Ingredients are in Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad?
The magic of this salad lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. I’m convinced the creators of ramen noodles had this salad in mind when they perfected those little packets.
The combination might seem unusual at first glance—cabbage and ramen?—but trust me, these ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
The contrast between the crisp vegetables and crunchy noodles, paired with the sweet-tangy dressing, makes this so much more than just another salad.
- 1 (3 ounce) package chicken-flavored ramen noodles (including the flavor packet)
- 1 (16 ounce) package packaged coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/3 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
When shopping for ingredients, the quality of your olive oil can make a difference in the final flavor profile.
And while the recipe calls for a packaged coleslaw mix (which saves tons of prep time), you could certainly shred your own cabbage if you prefer.
Some folks like to toast the almonds and sunflower seeds for extra flavor, though it’s completely optional.
The green onions add a nice mild bite, but if you’re not a fan, you could substitute with chopped chives or even a bit of red onion for a stronger flavor.
How to Make this Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad
Making this ramen cabbage salad is wonderfully simple, which is part of its charm. Start by breaking up 1 package (3 ounces) of uncooked ramen noodles into small pieces—I find this strangely satisfying, like culinary bubble wrap. Just remember to save that chicken flavoring packet, as it’s the secret weapon for our dressing.
Next, grab a large bowl and toss in your 16-ounce package of coleslaw mix, those broken ramen pieces, 1/4 cup of slivered almonds, 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds, and 1/2 cup of chopped green onions. The mixture already looks colorful and inviting, doesn’t it?
Now for the dressing, which brings everything together with its sweet-tangy perfection. In a separate bowl or jar, combine 1/3 cup vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, and 1/2 cup sugar along with the reserved chicken flavoring packet. Whisk or shake until everything is well combined and the sugar has mostly dissolved. This might take a minute or two—patience pays off here.
Pour this glorious concoction over your cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to guarantee every bite gets coated with that delicious dressing. The beauty of this salad is that it’s ready to serve immediately, capturing all those wonderful textures while the ramen still maintains its satisfying crunch. If you’re looking to elevate this dish further, consider using a high-end Dutch oven to toast your almonds and sunflower seeds for extra flavor.
For best results, I recommend serving this salad right away to enjoy maximum crunchiness. However, if you need to prepare it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. The ingredients will stay fresher that way, and you’ll preserve that signature crunch that makes this salad so addictive.
And don’t worry about measuring with scientific precision—this recipe is forgiving and adaptable to your taste preferences. Want more crunch? Add more noodles. Prefer a less sweet dressing? Reduce the sugar a bit. Cooking is about making yourself happy in the kitchen, after all. For an even more gourmet experience, consider using premium soup equipment to prepare variations with homemade broths instead of the packaged seasoning.
Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad Substitutions and Variations
Looking to customize this vibrant ramen cabbage salad to suit your taste or pantry situation?
I’ve got plenty of ideas for you. Swap the chicken-flavored ramen for beef or vegetable flavor, or try using rice vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a milder tang.
No almonds? Peanuts or cashews work beautifully. You can add shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or edamame for extra color and nutrition.
Want protein? Toss in some rotisserie chicken or tofu. For a sweeter version, try honey instead of sugar, or add a dash of sesame oil for nuttier depth.
What to Serve with Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad
When planning a meal around this vibrant Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad, you’ll want complementary dishes that balance its bold flavors and crisp texture.
I love pairing it with grilled teriyaki chicken or salmon for protein, creating a satisfying Asian-inspired feast.
For a vegetarian option, try serving alongside veggie potstickers or a simple miso soup. The salad’s tangy-sweet profile also works beautifully with sticky rice or even as a topping for bánh mì sandwiches.
Need something casual? This salad transforms into the perfect side for backyard burgers or hot dogs, adding that unexpected crunch factor everyone craves.
Final Thoughts
After enjoying this Crunchy Asian-Style Ramen Cabbage Salad numerous times, I’ve come to appreciate how it brings together simplicity and bold flavor in one colorful dish.
The contrast of crunchy noodles with crisp cabbage creates that satisfying texture we crave in a good salad. Plus, it’s so adaptable—add chicken for protein or swap in different nuts based on what’s in your pantry. For a more indulgent dinner option, you could always complement this light dish with a rich Fettuccine Alfredo that features a velvety parmesan sauce.
What I love most? It’s perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually improve as they mingle in the fridge, maybe even better on day two.
A true potluck champion that never disappoints.
If you’re looking for another adaptable dish that allows for customizable garnishes, try a White Chicken Chili that offers a lighter alternative to traditional beef versions while still delivering hearty flavors.
