Tired of the same old salad routine? Craving something flavorful, fresh, and surprisingly easy to make? Then get ready to dive into this vibrant Asian Ramen Slaw! This recipe takes the satisfying crunch of coleslaw and elevates it with the umami-rich flavors of Asia. It's a fantastic healthy meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a light lunch. This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional slaw, showcasing the versatility of ramen noodles. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (3 ounces) ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (a mix of green and red is visually appealing)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ramen Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, but discard the flavor packet. Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set aside to drain completely. This step is crucial for a good texture.
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Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Assemble the Slaw: Add the drained ramen noodles to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the noodles and vegetables, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill & Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the taste and makes the slaw even more refreshing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Asian Ramen Slaw:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Follow the package directions carefully to avoid mushy noodles. Rinsing them is key to achieving that perfect texture.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder slaw, omit the red pepper flakes. Conversely, add more for an extra kick!
- Get creative with veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like shredded broccoli, snap peas, or edamame.
Variations:
- Protein Power: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs beautifully with the Asian flavors.
- Peanut Butter Twist: For a richer, creamier dressing, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter.
- Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lime juice to the dressing for a bright, tangy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used. This is an estimate:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
This Asian Ramen Slaw is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy and delicious meal on the table quickly. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a true crowd-pleaser, whether you're serving it to family or friends. Enjoy!