There’s just something irresistibly satisfying about a salad that manages to be bold, colorful, crunchy, and comforting all at once. This crunchy ramen noodle slaw salad is exactly that—a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that brings excitement to every bite. Whether you’re making it for a laid-back family dinner, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something fresh and fun, this dish never fails to impress.
I first had a version of this salad at a friend’s backyard barbecue, and I’ll never forget how quickly it disappeared. It wasn’t just me going back for seconds—everyone was. That was the moment I knew I had to recreate it at home. Over time, I’ve played with different ingredient combinations, added a few of my own tweaks, and found the version that’s now a go-to favorite in our household. It’s especially perfect when you want something quick and easy, yet still full of flavor and texture.
What makes this salad so special is how little effort it takes to get something genuinely crave-worthy. The ramen noodles, toasted until golden and crisp, provide an unexpected but delightful crunch. Roasted slivered almonds add richness and depth. The prepackaged coleslaw and broccoli slaw mixes save tons of prep time but still bring color and crunch. And then there’s the dressing—a simple mix of ramen seasoning packets, soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar that brings everything together in the most flavorful way.
This salad is the definition of a crowd-pleaser. It’s sweet, tangy, salty, and savory. It works just as well as a side dish as it does the star of the meal. Best of all, it’s make-ahead friendly, which means it’s ready when you are. So if you’ve never tried ramen noodle slaw before, or if you’re looking for the perfect version, you’re in for a treat.
Why You’ll Love This Crunchy ramen salad Recipe
One of the best things about this ramen noodle slaw is how deceptively simple it is. With just a handful of ingredients—most of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge—you can create a dish that’s totally packed with flavor and texture.
To begin with, it’s incredibly easy to throw together. You don’t need any fancy equipment, unusual ingredients, or complicated steps. Everything comes together in one big bowl, and the hardest part is probably toasting the almonds—which, honestly, takes less than ten minutes.
Another reason to love this dish is how incredibly versatile it is. You can serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken or turkey kebabs, or as a light vegetarian option on its own. It holds up beautifully in the fridge, which makes it a great make-ahead dish for parties, gatherings, or even work lunches.
Texture is another big win here. Between the crunchy slaw mix, the toasty almonds, and the broken-up ramen noodles, each bite is a medley of crisp, tender, and toasty. There’s something about that contrast that keeps you going back for more. And when you let it sit in the fridge for a few hours? Everything melds together, yet somehow still keeps its crunch.
Then there’s the flavor. The homemade dressing—crafted from ramen seasoning packets, soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar—is tangy, sweet, savory, and just a little addictive. It’s the kind of flavor that doesn’t overpower, but instead enhances every bite. And because you’re using the ramen seasoning, you get that umami-rich depth that people can’t quite put their finger on, but absolutely love.
And let’s not forget how family-friendly this salad is. Kids love the crunch and familiar flavors, and adults love how balanced and satisfying it is. You can even adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or tang depending on your preference. This flexibility makes it a favorite for just about anyone.
Lastly, it’s a dish that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, packing it for a picnic, or putting it on the dinner table next to roasted chicken, it invites second helpings and happy conversations.
Health Benefits
At first glance, this salad might seem more indulgent than health-focused. But don’t be fooled—there are plenty of benefits packed into this colorful bowl of goodness. With a few mindful choices and fresh ingredients, this crunchy ramen slaw delivers more than just flavor.
First off, let’s talk about the slaw base. Using a mix of coleslaw and broccoli slaw means you’re getting a hearty serving of cruciferous vegetables. These veggies—cabbage, broccoli stems, and sometimes shredded carrots—are not only full of fiber, but also rich in vitamins C and K. Fiber helps support digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, while vitamin C is great for your immune system, and vitamin K supports healthy bones.
Next, the roasted slivered almonds add more than just crunch. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and vitamin E. Including a handful in this salad boosts its nutritional profile, offering heart-healthy benefits and helping you stay energized throughout the day.
Even the ramen noodles, which are typically considered a processed food, can be used in moderation as a source of carbohydrates that provide quick energy. Since they’re used here in a broken, toasted form rather than as the main base of a meal, their presence is more about texture and crunch than bulk. And because the salad is balanced with veggies, proteins, and healthy fats, it becomes a more well-rounded dish.
Another highlight is the dressing. While it does include sugar and seasoning packets, you can easily control the amount. Rice vinegar adds tang without adding fat or calories, and soy sauce provides sodium and umami flavor—though you can always opt for a low-sodium version to keep things heart-healthy.
If you’re looking to increase the nutritional benefits even further, there are lots of easy tweaks. Try adding sunflower seeds or raw peanuts for extra protein and zinc. Or toss in some edamame, shredded grilled chicken, or chickpeas to turn it into a more complete meal.
When you view the salad as a whole, it’s actually a very balanced dish. It combines raw vegetables, healthy fats, a bit of carbohydrate, and a satisfying crunch that leaves you feeling nourished and happy.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of this Crunchy ramen salad
This recipe is not only delicious and easy—it’s also quick. Whether you’re planning ahead or putting it together at the last minute, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly it comes together.
Total Preparation Time:
– 15 minutes active prep
– 3 hours minimum chill time (can be made up to 24 hours ahead)
Servings:
– Serves 8 to 10 as a side dish
– Serves 4 to 6 as a main dish
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 8 servings):
– Calories: Approximately 280
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 26g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: Varies based on seasoning packet; approx. 400-600mg
Please note that the exact nutritional values will vary based on the brand of ingredients used and whether you include optional toppings like sunflower seeds or sesame seeds.
Because of its high veggie content and good balance of carbs and fats, this salad makes a great choice when you’re looking for something satisfying but still light. And since it stores well, it’s also a great make-ahead option for meal prepping or planning a party menu.
Ingredients List of this Crunchy ramen salad
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crunchy ramen noodle slaw salad. The ingredient list is short and simple, and most items are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup slivered almonds – roasted for crunch and nutty flavor
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – adds tangy brightness
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for umami and saltiness (low-sodium works great too)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar – balances the tang and salt
- 1 package (16 oz) prepackaged coleslaw mix – classic shredded cabbage and carrots
- 1 package (12 oz) prepackaged broccoli slaw mix – for extra crunch and color
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (chicken or beef flavor) – break them into small pieces and reserve the seasoning packets for the dressing
Optional Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – for extra nuttiness
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds – add protein and crunch
- 2 tablespoons chopped raw peanuts – another delicious texture element
Optional Add-ins for Customization:
- Grilled chicken, shredded
- Edamame or chickpeas
- Sliced green onions or chopped cilantro for freshness
Now that your ingredients are lined up, let’s get into how to bring it all together in just a few simple steps.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Crunchy ramen salad
This crunchy ramen noodle slaw salad is wonderfully easy to prepare, and each step builds on the next to create a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether this is your first time making it or you’re a seasoned cook, the following step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process with helpful tips along the way.
Step 1: Toast the Slivered Almonds
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, spread the slivered almonds in an even layer on a baking sheet. Toasting them brings out their natural oils and enhances the nutty flavor, giving the salad an irresistibly warm depth.
If you want to take things to the next level, this is also the perfect time to toast the broken ramen noodles. Just place them on the same baking sheet as the almonds, keeping them separated so they toast evenly. You don’t need to add any oil. Let the dry noodles and almonds roast for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through to avoid burning.
You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a light golden brown and smell fragrant and slightly sweet. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Set them aside for later.
Tip: Keep a close eye on the almonds during the last few minutes. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Now let’s move on to the heart of this recipe: the dressing. It’s what ties all the textures together and gives the slaw its signature sweet-savory kick.
In a medium bowl or mason jar, combine the two seasoning packets from the ramen noodles with the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Whisk or shake vigorously until the sugar dissolves completely and the seasoning is evenly distributed.
At this point, the dressing will be strong—salty, tangy, and slightly sweet—but don’t worry. Once it’s mixed with the slaw and noodles, the flavors mellow out and balance beautifully.
Optional Tip: If you prefer your dressing a bit lighter, start with only one seasoning packet and add more to taste. You can also add a teaspoon of sesame oil for extra richness or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Slaw Base
In a very large mixing bowl—one that gives you plenty of room to toss—combine the prepackaged coleslaw mix and the broccoli slaw mix. These slaws offer different textures and colors, which not only make the salad more interesting to eat but also prettier to look at.
If your coleslaw mix includes large pieces of cabbage, feel free to give them a quick chop to make the salad easier to eat. You want everything to be bite-sized so that each forkful contains a good mix of all the elements.
Note: If you prefer to make your own slaw from scratch rather than use prepackaged mixes, you can combine 2 cups shredded green cabbage, 1 cup shredded red cabbage, 1 cup grated carrots, and 1 cup julienned broccoli stems.
Step 4: Add Crunch Elements
Now it’s time to fold in the toasted ramen noodles and almonds. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently incorporate them into the slaw mix, being careful not to crush them too much. You want the pieces to stay large enough to add that satisfying crunch in every bite.
If you’re using sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts, go ahead and add them now as well. These extras are totally optional, but they do contribute to the richness and complexity of the salad.
Optional Add-In Variation: This is a great time to mix in any protein if you’re turning this slaw into a main course. Grilled chicken, tofu, or edamame can all be tossed in with the slaw mixture at this stage.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing evenly over the slaw and toss thoroughly to coat. The goal is to distribute the dressing so that every piece of cabbage, broccoli, almond, and noodle gets a little flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get in there with clean hands if a spoon isn’t cutting it—sometimes the best mixing is done by hand.
Once everything is mixed and coated, taste a small bite. If needed, adjust the seasoning. You might find you want a little more sugar if you prefer it sweeter, or another splash of soy sauce if you love a deeper umami hit.
Step 6: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Now here’s the secret to what makes this salad truly great: chilling it. This is not a salad you want to serve immediately. For the best flavor and texture, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours. Overnight is even better.
As it chills, the dressing soaks into the cabbage and slaw, softening it just slightly while still keeping it crisp. The ramen noodles also soak up a little flavor while keeping their signature crunch. This resting period allows all the individual ingredients to meld into one cohesive, flavorful salad.
Tip: If you’re worried about the noodles getting too soft, you can reserve them and add just before serving for maximum crunch.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches Before Serving
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad another good toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. If you saved any noodles or nuts for garnish, sprinkle them over the top now.
For extra flair and freshness, you can also add some chopped green onions or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. These little additions bring a fresh, bright finish that elevates the entire dish.
Optional Additions for Serving Time:
– Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nuttiness
– Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness
– Top with thinly sliced green onions or red chili for color and a hint of spice
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the salad into individual bowls or serve it family-style in a large serving dish. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for warm-weather gatherings, lunches, or as a cool contrast to hot dishes.
This salad truly shines when paired with other summer favorites like grilled halal chicken skewers, seasoned rice, or stuffed grape leaves. Its crunch and bold flavor stand out, yet it plays well with a wide variety of other foods.
Now that you’ve mastered this part of the recipe, let’s talk about how to present it at the table in a way that’s just as inviting as its flavor.
How to Serve this Crunchy ramen salad
When it comes to serving this crunchy ramen noodle slaw, there are so many fun and delicious ways to enjoy it. Thanks to its unique blend of textures and bold flavors, it works wonderfully in a variety of meals and occasions.
First and foremost, this salad is a fantastic side dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken kebabs, beef burgers, or even spiced turkey patties. Its cool, crunchy nature makes it the perfect companion to anything hot and savory. Because it’s light yet satisfying, it balances heavier main dishes without stealing the spotlight.
Another great way to serve this dish is as a vegetarian main. With a few added proteins—like chickpeas, grilled tofu, or boiled edamame—it transforms into a colorful and nutritious lunch or light dinner. You can even toss it with cold rice noodles or serve it wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun and hands-on presentation.
For more casual gatherings, scoop the salad into small cups or bowls and serve it as a party appetizer. This presentation is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family-style meals. The individual servings make it easy for guests to enjoy the salad without needing a fork and knife.
If you’re meal prepping, portion the slaw into airtight containers and enjoy it as a grab-and-go lunch throughout the week. Because it holds up well in the fridge, you won’t have to worry about soggy greens or wilted textures.
Now that you know how to serve it, let’s look at what to serve it with to really bring out the best in this dish.
Pairing Suggestions for this Crunchy ramen salad
This crunchy ramen noodle slaw salad is delightfully versatile, which makes it a dream to pair with all kinds of dishes. Its sweet, tangy, and savory flavor profile, paired with an unbeatable crunch, complements both simple meals and more elaborate spreads. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or prepping a full menu for guests, these pairing ideas will help you build a balanced, satisfying meal.
Let’s start with proteins. Because the salad is light and fresh, it pairs wonderfully with grilled, roasted, or stir-fried meats. Grilled halal chicken is a classic match, especially when seasoned with soy, garlic, or ginger to echo the Asian-inspired flavors in the dressing. Sliced beef steak, particularly if it’s marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, works beautifully too. If you prefer something even simpler, roasted turkey breast or chicken drumsticks make excellent partners.
For a vegetarian option, this salad is lovely alongside grilled tofu or a veggie stir-fry. The crunch from the slaw adds texture to softer foods, making the meal more interesting. You could also serve it with crispy falafel or vegetable patties. Adding a scoop of hummus or a creamy tahini sauce on the side balances the tanginess of the slaw with a bit of richness.
Looking to serve this at a gathering or potluck? Make it part of a cold salad spread with dishes like quinoa salad, cucumber yogurt salad, or chickpea tabbouleh. The variety of textures and flavors will make your table feel vibrant and inviting. It’s also delicious alongside a bowl of warm soup—like miso, vegetable, or even chicken noodle—as a crunchy, refreshing counterpoint.
If you’re thinking more globally, consider pairing it with simple steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables, or add it to a plate of chicken satay with peanut sauce. The sweet-salty flavor of the slaw ties everything together nicely.
This salad also pairs well with soft, warm breads like naan, flatbread, or pita. The bread helps round out the meal, especially if you’re using the slaw as a main course with added protein.
For drinks, keep things fresh and light. Sparkling water with lime, iced green tea, or cucumber-infused water are all lovely, refreshing options that let the food shine. If you’re serving it during colder weather, a warm cup of green tea or jasmine tea works beautifully.
No matter how you serve it, this ramen noodle slaw holds its own. It can be the quiet star of the table or a crunchy supporting act—and it never disappoints.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions of this Crunchy ramen salad
One of the best things about this ramen noodle slaw salad is how well it keeps. Unlike traditional leafy green salads that wilt within a few hours, this one is built to last. In fact, it gets even better after it rests in the fridge for a while, as the dressing soaks into the cabbage and slaw without making them soggy. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat (if applicable) your salad to enjoy it at its best.
Storage in the Refrigerator
Once you’ve made the salad and tossed it with the dressing, transfer it to an airtight container or cover your mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cabbage and broccoli slaw will hold their crunch surprisingly well, and the flavors will continue to develop over time.
For the best texture, give the salad a good toss before serving. If it seems a little dry, you can refresh it with a splash of rice vinegar or soy sauce to wake up the flavors again.
Keeping the Crunch Intact
If you’re meal prepping or planning ahead for an event, consider keeping some of the toasted ramen noodles and almonds separate and mixing them in right before serving. This helps ensure maximum crunch, especially if the salad will be sitting for more than a day.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of cabbage and broccoli slaw doesn’t hold up well after freezing and thawing—they tend to become mushy and lose their fresh crunch. The dressing can be made ahead and frozen in a jar if you like, but the slaw itself is best made fresh or kept refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. There is no need to reheat it. However, if you’ve added cooked protein (like grilled chicken or tofu), you can warm those separately before mixing them into the chilled slaw. Just be sure not to heat the slaw itself, as it will wilt and lose its texture.
Pro Tip for Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers and want to switch things up, you can use the salad as a filling for lettuce wraps, wraps, or even as a topping for rice bowls. It makes a great component for a quick lunch and adds texture to just about anything.
With that in mind, let’s explore some common mistakes to avoid when making this dish, so you can ensure the best results every single time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid this Crunchy ramen salad
Even though this salad is super simple to make, a few small missteps can affect the flavor or texture. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you make the best version of this dish every single time.
Using raw ramen noodles without toasting
One of the biggest mistakes is skipping the toasting step for the ramen noodles. Toasting them gives them a delicious nutty flavor and extra crunch. Raw, untoasted noodles can be too hard and taste bland. A quick trip to the oven makes all the difference.
Overdressing the salad
While the dressing is full of bold flavors, using too much of it can overwhelm the salad and make it soggy. Start by pouring in a portion of the dressing, tossing well, and tasting. You can always add more if needed. Remember, the vegetables will release a bit of moisture as the salad chills, so a little dressing goes a long way.
Not allowing time to chill
This salad truly benefits from time in the fridge. If you serve it immediately after mixing, the flavors haven’t had a chance to develop and blend. A chill time of at least three hours helps marry the ingredients and creates that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.
Adding all crunchy elements too early
If you’re planning to serve the salad the next day, add some of the almonds and ramen noodles just before serving. This keeps them from softening too much and maintains that irresistible crunch.
Not breaking the ramen noodles into small enough pieces
Large chunks of ramen can be difficult to eat and don’t distribute well through the salad. Use your hands or a rolling pin to crush the noodles into bite-sized pieces before toasting.
Not tasting and adjusting seasoning
Everyone’s flavor preference is different, so taste your salad before serving and adjust the sweetness, tanginess, or salt level. If it tastes too salty, add more coleslaw or a splash of vinegar to balance it out.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be able to create a consistently delicious ramen noodle slaw that your friends and family will ask for again and again.
Pro Tips
Even though this salad is a breeze to make, a few expert-level tips can elevate it from “really good” to “absolutely unforgettable.” Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner at home or prepping it for a big event, these pro tips will help you nail it every single time.
1. Drain excess moisture from your slaw mix if needed
While most prepackaged slaw mixes are pretty dry, sometimes they can release water, especially if they’ve been sitting in the fridge for a few days. If your mix looks overly wet or soggy, give it a quick pat with a paper towel or drain it in a colander. This helps prevent the dressing from getting watered down and keeps the salad crisp.
2. Customize your crunch
The base recipe calls for slivered almonds and broken ramen noodles, but there’s plenty of room to play here. Toasted sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or even crispy fried shallots can add a whole new dimension. Just make sure to toast your nuts or seeds before adding them to amplify their flavor.
3. Make the dressing in advance
The dressing for this salad actually gets better the longer it sits. If you have time, mix it up the day before and keep it in a jar in the fridge. Just shake it up before using. This not only saves time on the day you assemble the salad, but it also deepens the flavor.
4. Add herbs for freshness
Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions bring a pop of freshness and color that can brighten up the whole dish. Add them right before serving to keep them vibrant.
5. Use low-sodium soy sauce for more control
Since the ramen seasoning packets already contain a good amount of salt, using low-sodium soy sauce in the dressing helps you control the final saltiness of the salad. You can always adjust later, but it’s harder to fix a dish that’s too salty.
6. Mix ingredients in layers for even flavor
Instead of dumping everything into the bowl at once, try building your salad in layers: half the slaw, some noodles, almonds, dressing, then repeat. This makes it easier to mix everything thoroughly without clumping or crushing the noodles too much.
7. Taste, adjust, and balance
Every batch of ramen seasoning is slightly different, and everyone’s taste preferences vary. Always taste the salad before chilling, and again before serving. If it needs a bit more sweetness, add a pinch of sugar. Too salty? Add extra slaw mix or a splash of vinegar to bring it back into balance.
8. Chill in a shallow container for quicker marination
If you’re in a bit of a time crunch, spread the salad out in a shallow container instead of piling it in a deep bowl. This allows the dressing to soak in more quickly, giving you great flavor in less time.
9. Double the dressing and store the extra
If you’re the kind of person who loves a lot of dressing, or you plan to add extra veggies or proteins, consider doubling the dressing recipe. Keep the extra in the fridge for up to a week—it’s delicious on other salads, cold noodles, or even grilled vegetables.
10. Bring to room temperature before serving
Although the salad is stored in the fridge, letting it sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving brings out the flavors more vividly. Cold tends to mute flavors slightly, so this small step makes a big impact.
With these pro tips, you’ll be ready to make this salad with confidence, creativity, and consistency. Now let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions, just in case you’re wondering about substitutions, storage, or serving ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of noodle instead of ramen?
Yes, you can. While instant ramen noodles give this salad its signature texture and nostalgic flavor, you can also use dry soba noodles or rice noodles, toasted in a similar way. Just be sure to break them into small pieces and toast until golden.
What can I use if I don’t want to use the seasoning packets?
If you’re avoiding MSG or want to skip the ramen flavor packets, you can make your own simple seasoning blend. Mix together garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of ground ginger, some sea salt, and a little sugar to mimic that savory-sweet flavor. Add a splash of sesame oil to the dressing for extra richness.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes better when made a few hours in advance. Aim for at least 3 hours of chilling time, or up to 24 hours if you’re planning ahead. Just keep in mind that for the crunchiest texture, add some of the toasted noodles and almonds right before serving.
Is this salad gluten-free?
As written, no—most ramen noodles contain wheat. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free ramen (available at most health food stores) and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Double-check your seasoning packets, or use a homemade spice blend to be safe.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Yes, and it’s a great idea. Grilled chicken, shredded turkey, tofu, chickpeas, or edamame all pair perfectly with this slaw. Just mix them in with the slaw or serve them on top for a more composed presentation.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3 days. After that, the noodles start to lose their crunch and the vegetables may get too soft.
Can I freeze the salad?
No, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The cabbage and slaw mixes lose their crunch and become watery when thawed. However, the dressing can be made ahead and frozen if needed.
Can I reduce the sugar in the dressing?
Definitely. Feel free to cut the sugar down to 1–2 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet dressing. The salad will still taste great—just a little tangier and more savory.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
A regular or low-sodium soy sauce works well. Avoid dark soy sauce, which can be too intense for this salad. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, go with tamari.
Do I have to use both coleslaw and broccoli slaw?
Not necessarily. You can use just one or the other, but the combination provides a nice variety in texture and color. If you’re only using one type, consider adding in some grated carrot or thinly sliced red cabbage for visual interest.
With these answers in your back pocket, you’re more than ready to tackle this recipe with confidence. Let’s wrap it all up with a quick recap and an invitation to make it your own.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This crunchy ramen noodle slaw salad is more than just a quick side dish—it’s a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed favorite that brings fun, texture, and color to any table. From the nutty crunch of toasted almonds to the tangy-sweet dressing that ties everything together, each bite is a perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
It’s one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again because it’s just so versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a backyard barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or making a batch for weekday lunches, it never disappoints. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences—make it vegetarian, add some heat, go gluten-free, or toss in your favorite protein to make it a meal.
And what really makes this salad shine is how approachable it is. There’s no complicated technique, no rare ingredients, and no need to be a kitchen expert. With a few pantry staples, a bag of slaw, and some ramen noodles, you’ve got everything you need to make a dish that feels fresh, exciting, and full of flavor.
So, here’s your challenge: try it out this week. Grab the ingredients, follow the steps, and don’t be afraid to make it your own. And once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add anything extra? Was it a hit at dinner? Did the kids go back for seconds?
If you do make this salad, share your results with friends and family—or post a photo and tag me. It’s always a joy to see how others bring their own twist to a recipe and make it part of their lives.
This ramen noodle slaw isn’t just easy and delicious—it’s a new classic waiting to happen. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite.
PrintCrunchy Ramen Salad – Easy, Flavorful, Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8–10 servings (side dish) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy and flavorful ramen noodle slaw salad combines coleslaw and broccoli slaw with toasted almonds, crunchy ramen, and a tangy, sweet soy dressing. Perfect for parties, picnics, and potlucks!
Ingredients
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1 cup slivered almonds (roasted)
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1/4 cup rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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3 tablespoons sugar
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1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix
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1 (12 oz) bag broccoli slaw mix
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2 packs ramen noodles (chicken or beef flavor)
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Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, chopped peanuts
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread almonds (and crushed ramen noodles if using) on a baking sheet. Toast for 8–10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
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In a bowl or jar, mix ramen seasoning packets with vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Shake or whisk until sugar dissolves.
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In a large bowl, mix coleslaw, broccoli slaw, toasted noodles, and almonds.
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Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
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Chill for at least 3 hours before serving. Top with sesame seeds or nuts if desired.
Notes
– For extra crunch, reserve half the almonds and noodles to add just before serving.
– Add grilled chicken or tofu to turn it into a meal.
– Adjust seasoning by tasting the dressing before mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook, Chilled
- Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion