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Cold Ramen Noodle Salad
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5 from 2 votes

Cold Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe

This Cold Ramen Noodle Salad combines shredded cabbage, crunchy toasted ramen noodles, almonds, and a bright sesame soy dressing for a crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad that’s a colorful classic for potlucks and picnics.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Potluck Favorite
Servings: 8
Author: Reed Dunn

Ingredients

For the salad

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1 large carrot shredded
  • ½ red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 4 green onions diced (green parts only)
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • 2 3-ounce packets ramen noodle soup
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the dressing

  • 1 lime juiced
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • tablespoons brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Toast the Ramen Noodles

  • Use your hands to crush the ramen noodles inside the package into small pieces. Discard the seasoning packets or save them for another use.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
  • Add the crushed ramen noodles to the dry skillet and toast, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes, until lightly golden.
  • Add the sesame seeds and continue toasting for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden.
  • Remove from heat and set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Salad

  • In a large bowl, add the green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrot, red bell pepper, green onions, and sliced almonds.
  • Toss to combine.

Make the Dressing

  • Add all dressing ingredients to a jar with a lid.
  • Shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds until well combined.

Assemble and Serve

  • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
  • Sprinkle the cooled toasted ramen noodles and sesame seeds over the top.
  • Toss again until evenly combined and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Recipe shortcut: Instead of shredding cabbage and carrot, you can substitute two 16-ounce bags of coleslaw mix for a quick and easy shortcut.
  • Serve fresh: This Cold Ramen Noodle Salad is best served shortly after tossing. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Over time, the toasted ramen noodles will absorb the dressing and lose their crunch.
  • Optional add-ins: You can customize this ramen noodle salad by adding: grilled shrimp, canned tuna, sunflower seeds, or fresh chopped cilantro.