Crispy Ramen Noodle Salad

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Crispy Ramen Noodle Salad! Packed with flavor and crunch, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of crispy ramen noodles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy peanut satay dressing creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
2. Quick prep time: With minimal cooking involved, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
3. Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch of this salad to enjoy throughout the week or bring to potlucks and picnics.

Ingredient Notes:

For the salad –

• Packets of instant ramen noodles, flavor packets discarded: These noodles provide the crispy texture that sets this salad apart. Feel free to use any brand of instant ramen noodles.
• Tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor to the salad.
• Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Red cabbage, cucumber, carrots, red chili, scallions, Thai basil, cilantro, roasted peanuts, sesame seeds: These fresh ingredients add color, crunch, and a variety of flavors to the salad.
  For the peanut satay dressing –
• Natural peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, sweet chili jam (or honey), water: Combine these ingredients for a creamy and tangy dressing that ties the salad together.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the instant ramen noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and toss with sesame oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the noodles with cooked chicken, red cabbage, cucumber, carrots, red chili, scallions, Thai basil, cilantro, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, sweet chili jam, and water to make the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve the salad topped with extra peanuts and sesame seeds.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds before adding them to the salad.
• Customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options.
• Store the dressing separately if making the salad ahead of time to prevent sogginess.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. For a spicier dressing, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.
2. Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and sesame oil before cooking for added flavor.
3. Garnish the salad with a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing kick.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Crispy Ramen Noodle Salad with grilled shrimp skewers or a side of fresh summer rolls for a complete and satisfying meal. Serve with a cold glass of iced tea or a fruity cocktail for a refreshing touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain the crispy texture of the noodles, store the dressing separately and toss right before serving. To reheat, gently toss the salad in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving for the best results.
2. Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe? While the crispy ramen noodles are recommended for this salad, you can substitute with cooked soba noodles or rice noodles if preferred.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Yes, simply omit the chicken or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
4. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dressing? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili jam or add additional chili flakes to suit your spice preference.

Conclusion:

With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this Crispy Ramen Noodle Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out today and let us know how you enjoyed this delicious and versatile dish!

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