Why Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw Works

If you’re searching for a vibrant side dish that delivers crunch, tang, and a burst of flavor, look no further than Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw. This delightful salad combines crunchy broccoli, classic ramen noodles, and a zesty dressing, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. It’s fresh, easy to make, and perfectly balances textures and tastes to keep your taste buds dancing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy Delight: The combination of fresh broccoli and crispy ramen noodles creates an addictive texture you’ll crave.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: Sweet, tangy, and savory notes from the dressing make every bite exciting.
• Versatile Side: Complements everything from grilled meats to sandwiches with ease.
• Customizable: Add seeds, nuts, or other veggies to personalize it for your palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe requires simple, everyday ingredients that each play an essential role: the broccoli brings crisp freshness, ramen noodles offer a satisfying crunch, and the dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.

• Broccoli florets: Use fresh, bite-sized pieces for vibrant crunch and nutrition.
• Ramen noodles: Uncooked instant ramen adds a crisp, salty component when broken into small pieces.
• Slivered almonds: These provide extra texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced to add a mild, fresh bite.
• Sesame seeds: For a toasty finish and visual appeal.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that balances the tang of the dressing.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a gentle acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the vinegar’s tanginess.
• Soy sauce: Gives a salty umami kick to the dressing.

Variations for Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw

This dish is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or to shake things up based on what you have on hand.

• Spicy twist: Add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegan version: Substitute mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and ensure ramen noodles are egg-free.
• Extra veggies: Toss in shredded carrots, red bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and crunch.
• Nut swap: Use pecans, walnuts, or cashews instead of almonds to change the nutty profile.
• Herbal freshness: Add chopped cilantro or fresh mint leaves for an herbal lift.

How to Make Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw

Step 1: Prep the Broccoli

Wash and chop fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets to ensure every forkful has the perfect crunch.

Step 2: Break the Ramen Noodles

Without cooking, crush the ramen noodles into small pieces; this helps them stay crispy when mixed into the slaw.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

Whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce until smooth and well-blended for a flavorful base.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss broccoli, broken ramen noodles, slivered almonds, green onions, and sesame seeds with the dressing, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Let the cole slaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the noodles to soften slightly without losing crunch.

Pro Tips for Making Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw

• Use fresh broccoli: Crisp and firm florets make for the best texture in the slaw.
• Don’t cook ramen noodles: Keeping them raw preserves their crunch and adds an irresistible texture.
• Let it rest: Chilling the salad improves flavor melding and slightly softens the ramen for the perfect bite.
• Adjust sweetness: Tweak the amount of sugar based on your preference for a balanced dressing.
• Toast nuts and seeds: Lightly toasting almonds and sesame seeds enhances their aroma and taste.

How to Serve Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving to add vibrant color and fresh flavor punch.

Side Dishes

This oriental-inspired cole slaw pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken, teriyaki beef skewers, or alongside pulled pork sandwiches for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in mini mason jars or colorful bowls for picnics or potlucks, or pile high in lettuce cups for a fun, bite-sized appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavors deepen, but note that the ramen noodles might soften over time.

Freezing

This cole slaw is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing as the texture of broccoli and crunchy noodles will change drastically.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t necessary or advised due to the raw vegetables and crispy noodles; serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use cooked ramen noodles instead of raw?

Raw ramen noodles provide the signature crunch that makes this cole slaw special, so cooked noodles are not recommended as they will become soggy and lose texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional ramen noodles contain gluten, but you can swap them for gluten-free crispy noodles or crushed rice crackers to keep it gluten-free.

How long can I store Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw?

For the best taste and texture, store it in the refrigerator for up to three days; beyond that, the noodles will lose crunch and broccoli may soften too much.

Can this slaw be made ahead for a party?

Yes! Prepare it a few hours in advance and chill before serving; just keep in mind the noodles soften slightly over time but remain delicious and flavorful.

What can I add to make it more filling?

Incorporate cooked chicken, tofu cubes, or edamame into the slaw for added protein to turn it into a light, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Oriental Ramen Broccoli Cole Slaw is truly a game-changer in the world of side dishes—bursting with texture, flavor, and simplicity. Its bright, crunchy essence makes every meal feel special, and best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. Give it a try soon and watch it become a favorite go-to dish you’ll love sharing with friends and family!

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