Ramen Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw mix: A blend of shredded cabbage and carrots that forms the crunchy base of this salad.

Crushed ramen noodles: Uncooked noodles broken into small pieces to add a crispy texture.

Sunflower seeds: Small seeds that add a nutty crunch and extra nutrition.

Toasted sliced almonds: Thin almond slices that are toasted to bring out their flavor and crunch.

Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions chopped finely for a mild onion taste and color.

Olive oil: A smooth, fruity oil used to make the dressing.

White vinegar: A tangy vinegar that brightens the dressing.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.

Soy sauce: A salty, savory sauce that gives the dressing a little depth.

When you’re mixing the dressing for this Ramen Coleslaw Recipe, whisking the ingredients together until they’re smooth and combined is a key step. Here’s a simple way to do it without making a mess:

1. Use a medium-sized bowl so the dressing has enough room to move around without spilling.
2. Hold the whisk firmly and start slowly, stirring in small circles to bring the ingredients together.
3. Gradually speed up your whisking to create a smooth, even mixture.
4. Tilt the bowl slightly toward you so the dressing pools in one spot, making it easier to whisk everything evenly.
5. Keep your wrist loose and use your whole arm to whisk, not just your fingers, to avoid splashing.

Whisking like this helps the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce blend into a creamy dressing that coats the coleslaw mix perfectly. If you don’t whisk well, the oil and vinegar might separate, and your salad won’t taste as balanced or fresh.

I remember the first time I made a dressing, I whisked too fast right away and ended up with drops all over the counter. It was a bit of a mess but taught me to start slow. Now, I actually enjoy whisking—it feels kind of like a mini workout! Plus, if you don’t have a whisk, a fork works just fine for this recipe. Just be patient and keep stirring until everything looks smooth and shiny. That little bit of extra care makes your Ramen Coleslaw taste even better.

• Coleslaw mix - Substitute with shredded cabbage and carrots: If you don't have a pre-packaged mix, you can easily create your own by shredding fresh cabbage and carrots. This provides the same crunchy texture and fresh taste.

• Ramen noodles - Substitute with crushed instant noodles: Any brand of instant noodles can be used if you discard the seasoning packet. They provide the same crunch when uncooked.

• Sunflower seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds offer a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great alternative.

• Toasted sliced almonds - Substitute with toasted pecans: Pecans provide a rich, buttery flavor and similar crunch, making them a good substitute for almonds.

• Green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor that can replace green onions, adding a similar fresh taste to the dish.

• Olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-tasting oil that can be used in place of olive oil for the dressing, maintaining the desired consistency.

• White vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor, which can complement the other ingredients well.

• Sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and a bit of depth to the dressing, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that offers a similar umami flavor, making it a suitable substitute.

• To keep your ramen coleslaw fresh and crisp, transfer it to an airtight container. This will prevent any unwanted moisture from sneaking in and making your coleslaw soggy.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help maintain the crunchiness of the ramen noodles and the freshness of the vegetables.

• If you plan to enjoy your coleslaw over several days, consider storing the dressing separately. This way, you can add it just before serving to keep everything as crisp as possible.

• For those looking to prepare in advance, you can freeze the coleslaw mix without the dressing. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• When you're ready to serve, thaw the coleslaw mix in the refrigerator overnight. Add the dressing once thawed to ensure the flavors are vibrant and fresh.

• Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the vegetables, so it's best to enjoy your ramen coleslaw fresh when possible for the ultimate crunch and flavor.

• Gently warm the ramen coleslaw in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, but be careful not to overcook, as you want to maintain the crunch of the coleslaw mix and almonds.

• Use a microwave-safe dish to reheat the coleslaw. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.

• For a quick refresh, toss the coleslaw in a hot pan with a splash of olive oil and a dash of soy sauce. This will revive the flavors and add a touch of warmth without losing the delightful crunch.

• If you prefer a cold option, let the coleslaw sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to come alive again without the need for heat, perfect for a quick and easy side dish.

• Large mixing bowl: Use this to combine the coleslaw mix, crushed ramen noodles, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, and chopped green onions.

• Separate bowl: This is needed to whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce for the dressing.

• Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing ingredients until they are well combined.

• Measuring cups: Use these to accurately measure the olive oil, white vinegar, and sugar.

• Knife: Required for chopping the green onions.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions.

• Spoon or spatula: Useful for tossing the coleslaw mixture with the dressing to ensure even coating.

Pre-crush the noodles: Crush the ramen noodles in advance and store them in an airtight container. This saves time during preparation.

Use pre-toasted nuts: Buy toasted sliced almonds and sunflower seeds to skip the toasting step.

Pre-mix the dressing: Whisk the olive oil, white vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Chop in bulk: Chop extra green onions and store them in the fridge for future recipes.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.