Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Broccoli Slaw Ramen Noodle Salad is the perfect solution for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. It's packed with vibrant veggies, crunchy noodles, and a zesty dressing that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast. It's one of those best recipes that's both healthy and incredibly tasty, making it a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ramen noodles (discard the flavor packet)
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup roasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions. Rinse under cold water to prevent sticking and drain well. Set aside.
-
Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and maintain a vibrant color. Drain well.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ramen noodles, blanched broccoli, shredded carrots, red cabbage, red onion, and cilantro.
-
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly.
-
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy immediately or chill for later!
Tips & Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Spice it Up: For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
- Make it Creamy: Add a tablespoon or two of peanut butter or tahini to the dressing for a creamier texture.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or edamame.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) would be around:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Broccoli Slaw Ramen Noodle Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its fresh ingredients and flavorful dressing make it a delightful and healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Enjoy!