Nappa Chinese Cabbage Salad
A crisp, flavorful Chinese cabbage salad featuring toasted sesame, almonds, and crunchy ramen noodles, perfect as a light side dish or appetizer with Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt oleo in a pan and sauté sesame seed, crushed ramen noodles, and sliced almonds until light brown.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Toss the cooled mixture with chopped nappa Chinese cabbage and sliced green onions.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar in the salad dressing. If nappa cabbage is unavailable, green cabbage can be a suitable substitute. You can also add grated carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color. This salad can be made ahead of time, but add the crunchy topping just before serving to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Consider serving it alongside Denise'S Stir-Fry for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it with tofu or alongside other Asian-inspired dishes to create a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To rehydrate the noodles, you can add a splash of water and microwave for a few seconds. However, for optimal crispiness, it's best to serve the salad fresh, adding the crunchy topping just before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nappa Chinese Cabbage Salad contains roughly 171 calories, with 6g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad components ahead of time. However, to keep the noodles and almonds crunchy, add them just before serving. The cabbage and green onions can be mixed and stored in the fridge, but wait to add the sautéed topping until ready to eat.
What can I substitute for ramen noodles?
If you don't have ramen noodles, you can use any crispy noodle type, such as chow mein noodles or even crushed cornflakes for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are crunchy to add that desired texture to the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can be easily made vegan by using plant-based margarine instead of oleo. Additionally, check that the ramen noodles are free from egg, as some brands may contain animal products. This salad is a great addition to any vegan recipes collection.
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).