If you are on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful salad that combines crunch, sweetness, and a hint of tang, this Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe is an absolute must-try. With its irresistible texture from broccoli slaw, crunchy ramen noodles, and a nutty mix of almonds and sunflower seeds, it’s a delightful twist on a classic slaw that brings color and excitement to any meal. The dressing adds a perfect balance that ties everything together, making it a crowd-pleaser for casual dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a fresh, no-cook dish that shines.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this dish, and luckily, this recipe calls for simple, accessible items that each bring their own unique touch. From the crisp broccoli slaw to the crunchy ramen pieces, and the slightly sweet, tangy dressing, every component plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- Broccoli slaw mix: The star base with a fresh, crisp bite and beautiful green color.
- Ramen noodles (2 packages, seasoning discarded): Provides unexpected crunch and lightness when crushed into small pieces.
- Sliced almonds (1/2 cup): Adds nuttiness and a delicate crunch for texture contrast.
- Sunflower seeds (1/2 cup): Brings earthiness and extra crunch that complements the almonds perfectly.
- Green onions (4, thinly sliced): Lends mild sharpness and a vibrant pop of green for freshness.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Smooths out the dressing with a neutral base that lets other flavors shine.
- Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup): Adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness and lifts the entire slaw.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances acidity with a subtle sweetness for harmony.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Infuses umami depth and a savory note to round out the dressing.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and highlighting all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ramen Noodles
Start by carefully crushing the ramen noodles into small, bite-sized pieces — not too fine, so they maintain that satisfying crunch. Set them aside because you’ll be mixing them into the salad only later, preserving their crisp texture.
Step 2: Combine the Slaw Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the broccoli slaw mix, crushed ramen noodles, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions. This blend offers a beautiful mix of textures and visual appeal that’s going to make every forkful exciting.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves and the dressing emulsifies. This dressing is the magic touch that brings vibrant flavor and a well-balanced zing to the slaw.
Step 4: Toss and Let It Meld
Pour the dressing over the combined slaw mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated. For the best flavor, let the slaw rest for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, while the ramen noodles soften slightly yet stay delightfully crunchy.
How to Serve Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe with a sprinkling of extra toasted almonds or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to add a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the nutty and tangy flavors.
Side Dishes
This slaw shines as a refreshing side next to grilled chicken, baked tofu, or your favorite barbecue spread. It also pairs perfectly with classic picnic foods like burgers or sandwiches, adding a crisp, zesty balance to heavier dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the slaw in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or atop crisp endive leaves as individual bites. You can also use it as a crunchy topping on tacos or even mix it into a grain bowl for added texture and flavor dimensions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain the crunch of the ingredients and the freshness of the dressing.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh vegetables and crunchy noodles, which will lose their texture after thawing. Enjoy it fresh whenever possible to get the full satisfying crunch and flavor.
Reheating
Since this is a cold, no-cook salad, reheating is not necessary. Simply give it a good stir before serving again, and consider adding a fresh handful of crushed ramen noodles if some crunch has softened over time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of slaw mix?
Absolutely! While broccoli slaw is great for its texture and flavor, you can experiment with cabbage slaw or a mix of shredded carrots and cabbage if you like. Just keep in mind that broccoli slaw’s unique crunch is part of what makes this recipe shine.
Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be vegan by ensuring your soy sauce is vegan-friendly (most are). It’s a great plant-based option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture.
What can I substitute for the ramen noodles?
If you’re avoiding ramen noodles or want a gluten-free option, try crispy rice noodles or crushed corn chips for that crunch, though the flavor will shift slightly. Just add them right before serving to keep their texture crisp.
How long can I let the slaw sit before serving?
For optimal flavor, letting the slaw sit 15 to 30 minutes works perfectly, allowing the dressing to meld with the ingredients without sogginess. You can leave it a few hours ahead but consider adding the ramen noodles just before serving for the best crunch.
Can I add other vegetables or toppings?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even chopped apples add wonderful flavor and color. For a little extra richness, try adding crumbled feta or a handful of dried cranberries for sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe is one of those rare finds that feels wonderfully fresh, satisfying, and effortless to make. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, it brings a bright crunch and bold flavor that everyone will love. I truly hope you give this recipe a whirl and find it as addictive and delightful as I do!
Print
Crunchy Ramen Broccoli Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crunchy and flavorful broccoli slaw salad featuring broken ramen noodles, nuts, and a tangy dressing. This easy no-cook side dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or quick weeknight meals, combining crisp textures with a savory-sweet dressing.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 (16-ounce) bag broccoli slaw mix
- 2 packages ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ramen Noodles: Crush the uncooked ramen noodles into small bite-sized pieces and set them aside for later use.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the broccoli slaw mix, crushed ramen noodles, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and thinly sliced green onions. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat every ingredient with the flavorful dressing.
- Let it Rest: Allow the slaw to sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and lets the ramen noodles soften slightly while maintaining a crunchy texture.
Notes
- For the crunchiest texture, add the crushed ramen noodles just before serving instead of mixing them in earlier.
- Try substituting vegetable oil with toasted sesame oil for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- You can swap sunflower seeds with chopped pecans or cashews for a different nutty profile.
- This slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance but keep the noodles separate until serving.
