Description
This Crunchy Coleslaw with Ramen and Almonds is the ultimate picnic and potluck salad—easy to make, irresistibly crunchy, and packed with bold, tangy flavor. A few pantry staples turn a simple coleslaw mix into something unforgettable.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the tangy dressing.
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or avocado oil) – Gives the dressing richness and smooth texture.
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar – Provides a zingy, bright flavor to the salad.
- 1 packet seasoning from the Ramen noodles – Infuses the dressing with savory chicken flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – A little spice to round out the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – Toasted for extra nuttiness and crunch.
- ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds – Brings a rich, nutty crunch to every bite.
- 1 (3-ounce) package chicken-flavored Ramen noodles – Crushed and added for ultimate crunch.
- 1 (14 to 16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix – A convenient base of shredded cabbage and carrots.
Optional Add-Ons
- Shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber – Add color and freshness.
- Shredded chicken or tofu – Boosts the protein content for a heartier salad.
Substitutions and Shortcuts
- Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free Ramen or crispy rice noodles.
- Vegan option – Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup and omit chicken-flavored seasoning packet.
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a mason jar or small container, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ cup vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons white vinegar, the Ramen seasoning packet, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Shake until well combined.
- Toast the Nuts and Seeds: Spread 2 tablespoons sesame seeds and ½ cup almonds on a paper plate. Microwave for 1½ minutes, stirring once halfway. Watch closely to avoid burning. Let cool.
- Crush the Noodles: Place the Ramen noodles into a zippered bag and crush using a rolling pin until broken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Pack to Go (Optional): If prepping in advance, store dressing, nuts/seeds, and crushed noodles separately. Keep coleslaw mix in a sealed bowl or bag.
- Assemble Before Serving: Just before serving, combine coleslaw mix with the dressing, toasted almonds/sesame seeds, and crushed Ramen. Toss well and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make ahead tip: Prep all components in advance but combine right before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
- Storage: Once mixed, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, though they will lose some crunch.
- Flavor twist: Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the dressing for a deeper umami note.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes (toasting nuts)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Keywords: crunchy ramen salad, ramen noodle coleslaw, easy potluck salad, coleslaw with almonds, asian slaw with ramen noodles, crunchy ramen cabbage salad