If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to bring to your next summer cookout, barbecue, picnic, or potluck, my Crunchy Ramen Cabbage Salad needs a spot on your menu. It combines crisp shredded cabbage, crunchy ramen noodles, toasted almonds, green onions, and sesame seeds with a sweet and tangy homemade dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
What makes this salad so popular is the incredible combination of textures. Every bite is loaded with crunch from the cabbage, ramen noodles, almonds, and sesame seeds, while the simple dressing adds just the right balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s one of those recipes that disappears quickly whenever it’s served.
This salad is also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have it ready in minutes. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and pairs well with everything from grilled chicken and burgers to barbecue ribs and pulled pork.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add shredded carrots, mandarin oranges, edamame, grilled chicken, or even sunflower seeds for additional flavor and texture. It’s a versatile recipe that works for almost any occasion.
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This Crunchy Ramen Cabbage Salad brings back so many childhood memories. My grandmother and mother both made a version of this salad when I was growing up, and it was hands-down my favorite salad—honestly, it was the only salad I would willingly eat! The crunchy ramen noodles, toasted almonds, and sweet tangy dressing made it feel more like a treat than a side dish. Over the years, I’ve made a few modifications to the original family recipe by swapping in some cleaner ingredients, but it still has the same nostalgic flavors and textures that I remember from childhood. This salad has been a staple at family gatherings, cookouts, and holiday meals for many years, and I’m so excited to share our family’s version with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and cookouts
- Loaded with crunchy texture
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Easy to customize
- Great make-ahead side dish when the dressing is stored separately
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 bag shredded cabbage
- 8 green onions (diced)
- 2 packages organic chicken-flavored ramen noodles (crushed/broken up; chicken flavor specifically for the seasoning packets. I use the brand Mike’s Mighty Good as a clean option)
- 4 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 8 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds
Dressing
- 6 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 tablespoons monk fruit (or coconut sugar/sweetener of choice)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1 ramen chicken seasoning packet (see note below – I use the brand Mike’s Mighty Good as a clean option)
Note: If you cannot find a cleaner ramen option, substitute approximately ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning for the seasoning packet.
Instructions
- In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar, salt, pepper, olive oil, and ramen seasoning packet (if using). Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, green onions, dry crushed ramen noodles, toasted sesame seeds, and toasted slivered almonds.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the ramen noodles will soften as the salad sits. For the best texture, store the dressing separately until ready to serve.
Dietary Notes
- Soy-Free (verify ingredients on ramen brand used)
- Dairy-Free
- Refined Sugar-Free (when using monk fruit sweetener)
Recipe Tips
- For maximum crunch, break the ramen noodles into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the salad.
- Toast the almonds and sesame seeds before mixing them into the salad for even more flavor.
- If preparing ahead of time, store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.
- Use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or steak.
- Pair with a light soup for a satisfying lunch.
- Bring it to summer cookouts, potlucks, or picnics.
- Enjoy with sparkling water, lemonade, or a crisp white wine.
FAQ’s
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. For the best texture, store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.
What is the best ramen to use?
I like Mike’s Mighty Good Ramen because it uses cleaner ingredients, but any ramen noodles will work.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or edamame are all great additions if you’d like to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
Can I use coleslaw mix instead of shredded cabbage?
Yes. A bagged coleslaw mix works perfectly and makes this recipe even quicker to prepare.
Check Me Out on Social Media!
I post all my recipes on social media as well and you can stay up to date on what I am up to! Also, I love seeing people try my recipes! When make these, snap a picture, and share it to your socials. Tag @cookingkatielady and #cookingkatielady so I can admire your masterpiece and share with others!
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Crunchy Ramen Cabbage Salad
Description
If you're looking for the perfect side dish to bring to your next summer cookout, barbecue, picnic, or potluck, this Crunchy Ramen Cabbage Salad needs a spot on your menu. It combines crisp shredded cabbage, crunchy ramen noodles, toasted almonds, green onions, and sesame seeds with a sweet and tangy homemade dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
Salad
Dressing
Instructions
-
In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar, salt, pepper, olive oil, and ramen seasoning packet (if using). Set aside.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, green onions, dry crushed ramen noodles, toasted sesame seeds, and toasted slivered almonds.
-
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Note
Did you make this recipe?
The next time you make it, snap a picture, and share it to your socials. Tag @cookingkatielady and #cookingkatielady so I can admire your masterpiece and share with others!:)
Please note that my nutrition label is approximate and can have slight rounding.
Note: If you cannot find a cleaner ramen option, substitute approximately ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning for the seasoning packet.
