Tired of the same old coleslaw? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and unexpectedly delicious? Then get ready to be amazed by this Ramen Noodle Coleslaw! This unique recipe combines the satisfying crunch of coleslaw with the umami punch of ramen noodles, creating a delightful fusion dish perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or even a unique appetizer. It's surprisingly easy to make, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Amazing Dish
This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adjust the quantities based on how much you're making. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- 8 ounces ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (a mix of green and red is visually appealing)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (optional, but highly recommended!)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
This recipe is incredibly simple and comes together in minutes. Let's get cooking!
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, but be sure to discard the flavor packet. Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Drain well.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and green onions.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Bring it Together: Add the cooked ramen noodles to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the noodles and vegetables, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds (if using) and serve immediately or chill for later. This slaw tastes great both ways!
Tips and Tricks for Ramen Noodle Coleslaw Success
- Noodle Choice: While regular ramen noodles work perfectly, you can experiment with different types of noodles like udon or even thin spaghetti for a different texture.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like shredded cucumbers, edamame, or even bean sprouts for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it Ahead: This coleslaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually meld nicely.
Delicious Variations to Explore
- Spicy Ramen Noodle Coleslaw: Add a pinch of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Peanut Ramen Noodle Coleslaw: Replace the sesame oil with peanut oil and add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the dressing.
- Creamy Ramen Noodle Coleslaw: Add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
This is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
This ramen noodle coleslaw is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and surprising texture combination make it a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy!