There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh, crunchy salad that brings together vibrant colors, bold flavors, and delightful textures all in one bowl. This Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe perfectly balances crispy vegetables, tender noodles, and a savory sesame dressing to create a dish that feels both comforting and refreshingly light. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a potluck favorite, this recipe delivers an explosion of flavor and freshness that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of ingredients that add color, crunch, and layers of flavor. Each element plays a role in creating a perfectly balanced dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
- Ramen noodles: The base of our salad, providing a tender, chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with crisp vegetables.
- Shredded carrots: Add natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of orange that brightens up the bowl.
- Shredded cabbage: Offers a satisfying crunch and a neutral flavor that balances the dressing.
- Red bell pepper: Thinly sliced for a juicy, slightly sweet snap, plus a gorgeous pop of red.
- Green onions: Bring a mild, fresh onion flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Snap peas: Trimmed and halved, these add crispness and a fresh, green sweetness.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped for a fragrant, herbal note that complements the Asian-inspired dressing.
- Roasted peanuts: Crushed and optional, but highly recommended for an irresistible crunch and nutty depth.
- Sesame dressing: The soul of the salad; creamy, nutty, and tangy, tying everything together beautifully.
How to Make Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the ramen noodles according to package instructions, but be sure to discard the seasoning packets—they’re not needed here. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them from getting mushy and helps the noodles stay perfectly tender for your salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the noodles are cooling, gather your fresh vegetables. Shred the carrots and cabbage, thinly slice the red bell pepper, chop the green onions, and trim and halve the snap peas. This mix of crisp, colorful veggies brings a fantastic contrast to the soft noodles and ensures every bite is full of texture and flavor variety.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded carrots, cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, snap peas, and chopped cilantro. Then add the cooled ramen noodles into the mix. Gently toss everything together to help the flavors and textures come together without breaking the noodles apart.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the luscious sesame dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture, then toss again until everything is evenly coated. This dressing brings a perfect umami punch with hints of nuttiness and tang that make this salad so irresistible.
Step 5: Add the Crunch
If you’re using crushed roasted peanuts, sprinkle them on top last for a delightful crunch and an extra burst of flavor. This little touch makes the salad feel special and adds a satisfying textural contrast.
Step 6: Let the Flavors Marry
Allow the salad to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This pause lets the dressing soak into the noodles and vegetables, melding everything into a harmonious blend of tastes that will have you reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe even further. Consider extra chopped cilantro for a burst of greenery, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to amplify the nutty flavors, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright, citrusy kick that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with many dishes. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a light but filling meal. It also works well as a vibrant side for BBQ gatherings or Asian-inspired feasts where you want to add a refreshing contrast to richer main dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve this Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe in individual small bowls or pretty mason jars to showcase its colorful layers. You can also plate it on a platter topped with extra peanuts and herbs for a family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the crushed peanuts separate until ready to serve to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
This fresh salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the crunchy vegetables and noodles. Freezing will affect the texture, making the salad soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheating is generally not recommended, as the textures and flavors are best when the salad is served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it warmer, allow it to come to room temperature before eating but avoid microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen noodles are traditional and give that perfect texture, you can substitute cooked soba or even thin spaghetti if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked and cooled before adding to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just check that your sesame dressing doesn’t contain any animal-based ingredients if choosing store-bought.
How spicy is this salad?
This salad is mild by default, but you can easily add some sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes to heat things up according to your taste preferences.
Can I make the dressing from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade sesame dressing often tastes fresher and more vibrant. Combining ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger creates a delicious dressing that complements the salad perfectly.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro or don’t have any on hand, fresh parsley or mint can be a lovely substitute that still adds a bright herbal note to the salad.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so joyful about putting together an Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor—the kind of dish that invites sharing and savoring with friends and family. Give it a try next time you want a fuss-free meal that doesn’t skimp on personality. I promise it’ll become one of your new favorites in no time!
Print
Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Easy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful dish that combines tender ramen noodles with fresh vegetables and a savory sesame dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish, it offers a delightful mix of textures and a refreshing, tangy taste inspired by classic Asian flavors.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 2 packs ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
Vegetables
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Toppings and Dressing
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed (optional for added crunch)
- 1/2 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare Noodles: Boil a pot of water and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, shredded cabbage, chopped green onions, snap peas, and cilantro.
- Mix Noodles and Vegetables: Add the cooled ramen noodles to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
- Add Dressing: Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and mix until everything is well coated.
- Add Peanuts: If using, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Let Flavors Meld: Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or tofu.
- Use gluten-free ramen noodles to make this salad gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of sesame dressing to taste for a lighter or stronger flavor.
- This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but noodles may absorb dressing and become softer.
