Crunchy Noodle Salad Recipe
A delightful salad that brings together crispy noodles, savory sesame seeds, and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for any get-together. Inspired by a memorable football party dish and a school recipe from New Jersey, this crunchy noodle salad has become a fan favorite at many gatherings. With its irresistible crunch and burst of flavors, it’s an ideal addition to your next party or casual dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect combination of convenience and taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Napa cabbage | 2 cups |
| Scallion (green onions) | 1 stalk |
| Sesame seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| White vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Almonds (sliced) | 1/2 cup |
| Ramen noodles (uncooked) | 1 package (discard seasoning packet) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 717.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 58.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 40.7 mg |
| Sodium | 278.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 47.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugar | 34.1 g |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Napa cabbage: Begin by removing the thick, heavy veins from the cabbage, leaving just the tender parts. Shred the cabbage finely into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl.
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Add the scallions: Slice the scallions thinly and add them to the shredded cabbage. This will give your salad a fresh, vibrant flavor.
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Prepare the ramen noodles: Take your uncooked ramen noodles and break them into small pieces. Be sure to discard the flavoring packet, as it won’t be needed in this recipe. Set aside.
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Toast the noodles and almonds: In a medium frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the broken ramen noodles, sliced almonds, and sesame seeds. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture turns golden brown and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the sugar and white vinegar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. You’ll use this to coat the salad and give it a tangy, sweet flavor that perfectly balances the crunch of the noodles.
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Assemble the salad: When you’re ready to serve, add the toasted noodle mixture to the cabbage and scallions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together lightly. Important: Only mix the dressing into the salad just before serving to preserve the crunch of the noodles.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, and watch as your guests go back for seconds! The combination of textures and flavors is sure to be a hit at any event.
Tips for Making the Best Crunchy Noodle Salad
- Freshness is key: Make sure the cabbage is fresh and crisp to get the best texture for this salad.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, you can add a little more sugar to the dressing.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately and mix them just before serving to keep the noodles from becoming soggy.
- Add-ins: Feel free to personalize the salad with additional ingredients like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cilantro for a unique twist!
This Crunchy Noodle Salad is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, making it a perfect side dish or a light main course. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner, a football party, or a festive gathering, this dish is bound to impress. The combination of fresh cabbage, crunchy noodles, and a tangy dressing creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Let Love With Recipes be your go-to source for this delightful recipe and many others that are sure to bring joy to your kitchen!
