If you’re searching for a salad that bursts with texture and flavor, look no further than this delightful Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe. It masterfully combines crisp broccoli slaw, crunchy ramen noodles, toasted nuts, and a tangy-sweet dressing that hugs every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving a fresh, satisfying side, this recipe delivers a beautiful balance of crunchy, nutty, and zesty notes that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe is simple but essential, working together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. From the crispness of the broccoli slaw mix to the toasty crunch of almonds and sunflower seeds, every item adds a unique character to this vibrant dish.
- Broccoli slaw mix: The crunchy vegetable base that’s fresh, vibrant, and full of fiber.
- Ramen noodles (2 packs): Crushed for that unmistakable crispy texture without the seasoning packets.
- Sliced almonds (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, toasted crunch that complements the noodles perfectly.
- Sunflower seeds (1/4 cup): Delivers an earthy flavor and enhances the texture variety.
- Green onions (3, thinly sliced): Brings a mild sharpness and fresh green color.
- Neutral oil (1/3 cup): Such as vegetable or canola, it emulsifies the dressing and keeps flavors balanced.
- Apple cider vinegar (3 tablespoons): Lends brightness and a subtle tanginess to the dressing.
- Honey or sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness to soften the vinegar’s bite.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Provides savory depth and umami richness.
- Sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a delicate, toasty aroma that rounds out the dressing.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential seasonings to enhance overall taste.
How to Make Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Base
Start by gently crushing the ramen noodles into small bite-sized pieces. Place these broken noodles into a large mixing bowl, then add in the broccoli slaw mix, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions. This creates the textural heart of your slaw, offering a combination of crisp and crunchy components that keep every mouthful exciting.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, thoroughly whisk together the neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory, designed to coat the slaw ingredients just right without weighing them down.
Step 3: Toss and Let It Marinate
Pour the dressing over the broccoli slaw mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Let the slaw rest for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to marry beautifully while the ramen noodles soften just enough to be pleasant, but still maintain that addictive crunch.
How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe, consider sprinkling additional toasted almonds or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. A few extra slivers of green onion can add a fresh pop of color and enhance the oniony flavor, making your dish look as vibrant as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This slaw is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or even a simple veggie burger. Its crisp texture contrasts beautifully with smoky, juicy mains, making it an ideal companion to any summer cookout or casual meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe in individual mason jars for a charming picnic or potluck presentation. You can also use it as a crunchy topping on tacos or mix it with shredded rotisserie chicken to create a vibrant, crunchy wrap filling. The possibilities are endless when you embrace this slaw’s lively texture and delicious flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind the ramen noodles may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within that timeframe to fully appreciate the delightful texture.
Freezing
This slaw is not ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables and crunchy noodles do not retain their texture after thawing. For the best experience, prepare it fresh or store refrigerated leftovers instead.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook, cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Enjoy the slaw chilled or at room temperature to savor the perfect balance of flavors and crunchiness.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or cashews can be great substitutes depending on your preference. Toast them lightly to enhance their flavor and maintain the crunchy texture.
Is there a gluten-free option for the ramen noodles?
Yes, you can substitute the regular ramen noodles with gluten-free crunchy rice noodles or crispy chickpea noodles to keep that satisfying crunch without gluten.
How long can I prepare this slaw in advance?
It’s best to prepare the slaw no more than one day ahead for optimal crunch and freshness. If you want to make it earlier, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.
Can this slaw be made vegan?
Definitely! Simply use maple syrup or agave in place of honey, and make sure your soy sauce is vegan-friendly—most are, but it’s good to double-check.
What if I don’t have broccoli slaw mix? Can I substitute something else?
You can use finely shredded cabbage or a combination of shredded carrots and cabbage if you don’t have broccoli slaw mix. The goal is to maintain a crisp, fresh vegetable base.
Final Thoughts
The Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a secret treasure for every occasion where you want something fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. It’s straightforward, quick to put together, and endlessly satisfying. I encourage you to dive in and make this recipe your go-to crowd-pleasing side—it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe box!
Print
Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw is a refreshing and textured side dish combining crisp broccoli slaw, crunchy ramen noodles, and a nutty mix of almonds and sunflower seeds. Tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing with apple cider vinegar and soy sauce, this easy no-cook salad is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or as a bright accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Slaw Mix
- 1 (12-ounce) bag broccoli slaw mix
- 2 packs ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola)
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ramen and Slaw: Crush the ramen noodles into small pieces by hand and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the broccoli slaw mix, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions to the bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or sugar), soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Toss and Marinate: Pour the dressing over the broccoli slaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the ramen noodles to soften slightly while maintaining their crunch.
Notes
- For extra flavor and crunch, toast the almonds and sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant before adding them to the slaw.
- This slaw is perfect for potlucks and BBQs, offering a delightful crunchy side dish that complements many main courses.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; the noodles may soften further but will remain tasty.
