Crunchy Chinese Cole Slaw
A crunchy, flavorful Chinese coleslaw featuring toasted sesame seeds, almonds, fresh herbs, and a savory ramen-inspired dressing, perfect as a side or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break up the uncooked ramen noodles into small pieces.
- Combine the broken noodles with toasted sesame seeds, sliced almonds, shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, and chopped green onions in a large bowl.
- Toss all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add the prepared dressing to the mixture.
- Toss well to coat and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, add the ramen noodles just before serving. If you want a milder flavor, consider replacing the sesame seeds with sunflower seeds. You can also substitute the cabbage with kale for a different taste. To enhance the dish, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame oil. This slaw pairs well with any of your favorite chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crunchy cole slaw as a side dish at barbecues or potlucks, as it complements grilled meats exceptionally well. It pairs beautifully with Sam'S Stir-Fry, offering a delightful contrast in textures. You can also serve it as a light lunch topped with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may soften over time, so it's best to eat the slaw within a day or two for optimal crunch. If reheating, consider warming the dressing separately and tossing it with the slaw just before serving to freshen up the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Chinese Cole Slaw contains roughly 690 calories, with 25g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this slaw in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours ahead of time. However, it's best to add the ramen noodles and dressing just before serving to maintain their crunchiness. If you prepare it too far in advance, the noodles may become soggy.
What dressing works best with this slaw?
A light sesame or ginger-based dressing complements the flavors of this slaw perfectly. You could make a simple dressing with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. This will enhance the flavors without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it primarily consists of vegetables, nuts, and ramen noodles. Just ensure that the ramen noodles do not contain any meat-based flavorings. For a vegan option, check the noodle packaging and use a plant-based dressing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).