Tired of the same old salad routine? Craving something quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor? Then get ready to be amazed! This Broccoli Salad with Ramen Noodles recipe is a game-changer, offering a delightful fusion of crunchy textures and savory tastes. It's an easy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun, healthy lunch. Forget boring salads – this is a delicious dish that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8-ounce) package ramen noodles, seasoning packet discarded
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
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 (or other nut butter)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
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Cook the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, but discard the seasoning packet. Rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent sticking and drain well. Set aside.
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Steam or Blanch the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking; you want them to retain some bite. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the broccoli cooks, chop the carrots, red bell pepper, and red onion.
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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, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ramen noodles, broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper, red onion, and sesame seeds.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately or chill for later.
Cooking Tips for the Best Broccoli Salad:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will be mushy and unpleasant. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add more honey or maple syrup. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add more rice vinegar.
- Add protein: To make this a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Get creative with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as shredded cabbage, edamame, or snow peas.
Variations:
- Spicy Broccoli Ramen Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Peanut-Free Option: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.
- Vegan Option: Ensure your soy sauce and honey are vegan-friendly. Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative to honey.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used. Calorie count is estimated to be around 300-350 calories per serving. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients. This healthy meal is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a delicious and nutritious choice. This easy recipe is also a great source of quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights.
This Broccoli Salad with Ramen Noodles recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!