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Crunchy Cabbage Ramen Noodle Salad

A bowl of Crunchy Cabbage Ramen Noodle Salad brings together crisp vegetables, buttery toasted noodles, and a creamy sesame dressing. This easy side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the salad
  • 2 packages ramen noodles Any flavor works, just discard the seasoning packets.
  • 1/3 cup almond slices or sunflower seeds Sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
  • 2 tbsp melted butter Can substitute with neutral cooking oil.
  • 1/2 small cabbage, thinly sliced Can substitute with coleslaw mix or broccoli slaw.
  • 1 small carrot, thinly sliced Shredding is optional.
  • 1 piece green onion, finely chopped
For the dressing
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar Can substitute with apple cider or white wine vinegar.
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise Use your preferred brand.
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard Yellow mustard can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper if desired.
  2. Break the ramen noodles into bite-sized pieces and place them on the baking pan. Add almond slices or sunflower seeds and drizzle with melted butter. Toss to coat.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown, stirring once if necessary. Let cool for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, rice wine vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly
  1. In a large bowl, combine thinly sliced cabbage, carrot, green onion, and cooled toasted noodle mixture.
  2. Drizzle dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately for best crunch.

Notes

For leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Store the dressing and toasted topping separately for best texture. This salad is best enjoyed soon after dressing.