Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This Asian slaw recipe using ramen noodles is a delicious and healthy meal that comes together in minutes. Forget complicated recipes; this quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual get-together. It's the best of both worlds: homemade cooking with minimal effort, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 packages (3 oz each) ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, but discard the flavor packet. Rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent sticking and drain well.
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Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ramen noodles, shredded carrots, red cabbage, green cabbage, cilantro, and green onions.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter, ginger, and garlic until smooth and creamy.
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Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top. Serve immediately or chill for later. This slaw tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld in the refrigerator for a while!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra crunch, lightly toast the peanuts in a dry skillet before chopping.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing to your preference. You can always add more later if needed.
- If you don’t have all the vegetables listed, feel free to substitute with whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, or edamame would all be delicious additions.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variations on this Easy Recipe:
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate a sriracha mayo or some chili garlic sauce for extra heat.
- Vegan Option: Ensure your soy sauce and honey/maple syrup are suitable for vegan diets.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates from the noodles and vegetables, healthy fats from the sesame oil and peanuts, and protein from the peanuts (if you choose to add protein, nutritional values will vary). It's a relatively low-calorie meal option, perfect for those watching their weight. Exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This Asian slaw with ramen noodles is a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual lunch. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and its easy preparation ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime you want. Give it a try and let us know what you think!