Noodle Salad
A vibrant and crunchy noodle salad featuring crisp slaw, tender ramen noodles, toasted almonds, and fresh green peppers, all tossed in a tangy, sweet, and savory dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light summer meals, it offers a refreshing mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
- In a small bowl, mix vegetable oil, vinegar, sugar, Accent, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, slaw, almonds, chopped green onions, chopped green pepper, and sunflower kernels if using.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, add the sunflower kernels right before serving. You can substitute the ramen noodles with soba noodles or any pasta of your choice for a different flavor. Consider using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. For added freshness, toss in some shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers. This dish is great for potlucks or picnics!
Serving Suggestions
This noodle salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for grilled meats. Pair it with a refreshing drink like Frozen Daiquiris for a summer gathering. It also complements dishes like French Fried Hot Dogs or even Jan'S Cherry Cheesecake for a complete meal. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can lose its crunch, so if you plan to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more dressing to revive the flavors. However, it’s best served cold, so enjoy it straight from the fridge!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle Salad contains roughly 168 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 noodle salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and add the dressing only when you're ready to serve to maintain the noodles' texture. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this noodle salad can easily be made vegan by ensuring the ramen noodles and dressing do not contain any animal products. Use a plant-based sugar and check the vegetable oil for any additives. It's a colorful, nutritious option for anyone following vegan recipes.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost. Marinated grilled chicken pairs especially well, and you can toss in the protein just before serving. This will make the salad more filling and suitable as a main dish.
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).