Top Ramen Salad: The Ultimate Crunchy Cabbage Salad Recipe

Ramen noodle salads have become a staple at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings thanks to their irresistible crunch, vibrant flavors, and ease of preparation. This Top Ramen Salad features crumbled ramen noodles, crisp cabbage, toasted nuts, and a simple yet savory vinaigrette, delivering a combination of textures and tastes that always delight.

What Makes Top Ramen Salad So Good?

• Crunch factor: The dried ramen noodles add unbeatable texture.
• Balanced flavors: A tangy, slightly sweet vinaigrette ties the salad together.
• Versatility: Easily adaptable with various veggies and toppings.
• Quick to assemble: Minimal prep, no cooking required beyond toasting nuts or seeds.
• Perfect for a crowd: Great for sharing at parties or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 packages (3 ounces each) ramen noodles (chicken or original flavor), uncooked and crumbled
• 1 small head green cabbage, shredded (or substitute with coleslaw mix)
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup sunflower seed kernels
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for toasting nuts and noodles)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Seasoning packets from ramen noodles
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crunchy Topping

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the crushed ramen noodles (discarding any large chunks), almonds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds.
3. Toast the mixture, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat, cool completely, and set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad Base

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and green onions.
2. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors.

3. Make the Vinaigrette

1. Whisk together vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and the seasoning packets from the ramen noodles until sugar dissolves and mixture is well blended.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Serve

• Just before serving, pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
• Fold in the cooled crispy noodle-nut mixture for maximum crunch.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

Tips for the Best Ramen Noodle Salad

• For extra convenience, use pre-shredded coleslaw mix.
• To maintain crunch, keep the toasted topping and dressing separate until serving.
• If making ahead, toss the cabbage and vinaigrette together, then stir in the noodles and nuts just before serving.
• Customize with add-ins like shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, or broccoli slaw.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount of seasoning packet if you prefer a less salty salad.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Why Use Uncooked Ramen Noodles?

Uncooked ramen noodles bring a signature crunch to this salad. When toasted, they transform into nutty, golden nuggets that hold up even after being tossed with dressing. Their unique texture sets this salad apart from traditional leafy green salads.

Ideas to Make It Your Own

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a main dish salad.
• Switch up the veggies: Add red cabbage, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced snap peas for color and crunch.
• Try different nuts: Cashews, peanuts, or pine nuts can add a unique flavor.
• Brighten with fruit: Mandarin orange segments or diced mango provide a sweet and tangy twist.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

• To make ahead: Prep and store cabbage mixture, crunchy topping, and vinaigrette separately. Combine just before serving.
• Storage: If dressed and mixed, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Note: the noodles will soften over time.
• Keep toasted noodle-nut mixture in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect side for barbecued meats, burgers, or grilled fish.
• Ideal for potlucks, picnics, and lunchboxes.
• Add protein for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
• Brighten a holiday table with this crowd-pleasing dish.

Nutritional Highlights

• Vegetable-rich, especially with added cabbage and optional veggies.
• Source of healthy fats from nuts and seeds.
• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free ramen and tamari.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Top Ramen Salad ahead of time?

Yes! For the freshest crunch, store the toasted topping and dressing separately from the cabbage mixture. Combine everything just before serving.

How do I keep ramen noodle salad from getting soggy?

Toss the dressing and crunchy mixture with the cabbage only right before serving. If leftovers soften, the salad is still tasty but loses some of its signature crunch.

Can I use different types of ramen?

Absolutely. Any flavor of ramen works, but chicken or original is most traditional. Discard or use the seasoning packet as desired.

What can I substitute for nuts if there’s an allergy?

Omit nuts or use extra seeds such as roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds. For more crunch, add crispy fried onions or chow mein noodles.

Is Top Ramen Salad gluten-free?

Standard ramen noodles contain wheat, but gluten-free instant noodles can be substituted for a gluten-free version. Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Expert Tips for Success

• Taste the vinaigrette before adding to the salad and adjust sweetness, tanginess, or salt as needed.
• Lightly crushing the ramen noodles into small pieces creates the best texture.
• Toast nuts, seeds, and noodles gently to avoid burning and bring out their flavor.
• Customize to your taste—this salad is highly adaptable.

More Salad Inspiration

• Try variations like broccoli and ramen noodle salad for added greens and nutrients.
• Swap out cabbage for chopped kale for a heartier base.
• Mix in diced red bell pepper or shredded carrots for colorful crunch.

Summary: Why You’ll Love This Top Ramen Salad

This beloved ramen salad is irresistibly crunchy, colorful, and packed with bold flavors. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit for any gathering. Whether served as a side or main, the blend of crispy noodles, fresh veggies, toasted nuts, and tangy dressing creates a memorable dish that disappears fast from any table.

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman