Tired of the same old salad? Craving something crunchy, flavorful, and surprisingly healthy? Then look no further! This Ramen Noodle Slaw recipe is a game-changer. It's a delightful fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and the satisfying crunch of ramen noodles, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion, or even a light and delicious meal on its own. It's one of those easy recipes that's incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your side dish game! This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces ramen noodles (discard the flavor packet)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
- 1/2 cup shredded red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
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:
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions. Rinse them under cold water immediately to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
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Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
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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, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
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Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the noodles soften slightly and absorb the dressing better. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Ramen Noodle Slaw:
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Follow package directions carefully and rinse them immediately under cold water.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder slaw, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Get creative with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as shredded broccoli, snap peas, or edamame.
Variations:
- Peanut Noodles Slaw: Substitute peanut butter for the sesame oil in the dressing for a creamy peanut flavor.
- Spicy Slaw: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
- Citrus Slaw: Add the zest and juice of one lime or lemon to the dressing for a bright and tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients used. This is an estimate and should be considered an approximation.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35 grams
This ramen noodle slaw is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish!