Ramen Coleslaw Recipe

Coleslaw mix: A pre-packaged mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, providing a crunchy base for the salad.

Ramen noodles: Instant noodles that add a unique texture; discard the seasoning packet.

Sliced almonds: Thinly sliced almonds that add a nutty flavor and extra crunch.

Sunflower seeds: Seeds that contribute a subtle nutty taste and additional texture.

Green onions: Chopped for a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Olive oil: Used as a base for the dressing, adding richness and smoothness.

Apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the dressing.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dressing, balancing the tanginess of the vinegar.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the dressing.

When preparing the coleslaw mix, ensure that the ramen noodles are crushed into small, even pieces to provide a consistent crunch throughout the dish. To enhance the flavor and texture, lightly toast the sliced almonds and sunflower seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown. This will bring out their natural oils and add a deeper, nuttier flavor to the coleslaw. When making the dressing, whisk the olive oil and apple cider vinegar vigorously to create a well-emulsified mixture that will coat the coleslaw evenly. Allowing the coleslaw to refrigerate for at least an hour is crucial as it gives the flavors time to meld and the ramen noodles to soften slightly, creating a perfect balance of textures.

• coleslaw mix - Substitute with shredded cabbage and carrots: You can easily create your own mix by shredding fresh cabbage and carrots, which will provide a similar texture and flavor.

• crushed, discard seasoning ramen noodles - Substitute with crushed instant noodles: Any brand of instant noodles can be used, just make sure to discard the seasoning packet.

• sliced almonds - Substitute with chopped walnuts: Walnuts offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.

• sunflower seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds provide a similar texture and a slightly different but complementary flavor.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chopped chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and similar health benefits, making it a suitable replacement.

• apple cider vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar has a mild acidity and subtle sweetness that can mimic the flavor profile of apple cider vinegar.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and can be used in a slightly lesser amount due to its higher sweetness intensity.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and offers a similar umami flavor.

• To store your ramen coleslaw, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw mix will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Beyond this period, the crushed ramen noodles may start to lose their crunch.
• If you plan to make the ramen coleslaw ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately. Combine the coleslaw mix, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and green onions in one container, and the dressing in another. Mix them together just before serving to keep the noodles crunchy.
• For freezing, note that coleslaw mix and ramen noodles do not freeze well due to their high water content and texture. Freezing can make the vegetables soggy and the noodles mushy.
• If you must freeze, only freeze the dressing. Pour the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce mixture into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the dressing in the refrigerator overnight. Shake or whisk it well before combining with the fresh coleslaw mix and other ingredients.
• Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness and avoid any guesswork.

• For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place the ramen coleslaw in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• If you prefer a more even and gentle reheating, opt for the stovetop. Transfer the coleslaw to a non-stick skillet and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the almonds and sunflower seeds.
• For those who enjoy a slightly crispy texture, use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the coleslaw evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the coleslaw is heated and slightly crispy.
• If you have an air fryer, this can be a fantastic option. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the coleslaw in the air fryer basket in a single layer and heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating and a bit of extra crunch.
• For a more traditional approach, use a steamer basket. Place the coleslaw in a heatproof dish that fits into your steamer basket. Steam over boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and flavor of the dressing.

• Large mixing bowl: For combining the coleslaw mix, crushed ramen noodles, sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and chopped green onions.

• Small mixing bowl: For whisking together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce to create the dressing.

• Whisk: To thoroughly mix the dressing ingredients until well combined.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the soy sauce precisely.

• Knife: For chopping the green onions.

• Cutting board: To provide a safe surface for chopping the green onions.

• Refrigerator: To chill the coleslaw mixture for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.

• Serving spoon: For tossing the coleslaw mixture with the dressing and serving.

Use pre-chopped ingredients: Buy coleslaw mix and pre-sliced green onions to save chopping time.

Pre-crushed ramen: Purchase pre-crushed ramen noodles or crush them in advance and store in an airtight container.

Batch toast nuts and seeds: Toast almonds and sunflower seeds in bulk and store for future use.

Make dressing ahead: Whisk the dressing ingredients together and refrigerate in a jar for quick assembly.

Use a large mixing bowl: A larger bowl makes it easier to toss and evenly coat the coleslaw mixture with the dressing.