Healthy Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

This crunchy ramen noodle salad is a healthy twist on the classic potluck favorite, lightened up and loaded with plant-based protein. It’s perfect for cookouts, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner!

Ramen noodle salads were a classic at potlucks when I was growing up. But most of them were made with lots of oil, a hefty amount of sugar, and almost no protein. So obviously I had to make some changes! This salad is crunchy, colorful, and packed with plant-based protein. Tossed with toasted ramen and almonds, crisp cabbage, and edamame, it’s coated in a simple vinaigrette that ties everything together. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks and picnics!

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Ramen Noodles: Uncooked ramen adds serious crunch. Discard the seasoning packet and break the noodles into bite-sized pieces.
• Almonds: Almonds add extra texture and a nutty flavor. You can use slivered or sliced. This is also a great way to add some healthy fats and protein.
• Cabbage: A pre-shredded bag of coleslaw mix makes prep easy! You can use regular shredded cabbage if you prefer.
• Edamame: Steamed and shelled edamame adds plant-based protein. I like using frozen, shelled edamame because it’s quick to prepare.
• Green Onions: These add a pop of savory flavor and freshness.

For the Dressing:

• Rice Vinegar & Soy Sauce: The tangy, savory base of the dressing. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: This adds natural sweetness. I used maple syrup to keep this recipe vegan.
• Sesame & Avocado Oil: Sesame oil adds flavor, while the avocado or olive oil helps to balance it out.
• Ginger & Garlic: Fresh ginger and a touch of garlic powder add additional flavor.

What’s the Best Kind of Ramen for a Salad?

You can use any kind of ramen you like. We won’t use the seasoning packet so the flavor doesn’t matter. I prefer using Ocean’s Halo ramen noodles, which are made with just wheat and salt. They’re a little more expensive, but I like the clean ingredients. You can find them at Kroger, Whole Foods, and other major grocery stores.

How to Thaw Frozen Edamame

I like using shelled frozen edamame because it’s quick and easy. For this recipe, the edamame doesn’t need to be heated fully; it just needs to be thawed. You can either steam it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or you can rinse it in a colander under warm water until thawed.

How to Store Leftovers

If already dressed, the salad will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the noodles will soften over time. For best results, store the salad, dressing, and crunchy topping separately and mix as needed.

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