Cabbage Salad Supreme (Uses Top Ramen Noodles)

I remember the first time I tried this salad. It was at a family reunion, and frankly, I wasn’t thrilled about another cabbage dish. But the moment I tasted the crunchy, savory-sweet combination of the cabbage, ramen, and sesame seeds, I was hooked. It’s become a staple at my own gatherings ever since, often converting even the most skeptical “cole slaw haters” into enthusiastic fans. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, cleverly combined, can create something truly special.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for toasting)
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Yield: Approximately 8 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (easily made vegan)

Ingredients

• 1/2 head cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped fine
• 0.5 (3 ounce) package Top Ramen noodles, crumbled (discard seasoning packet or save for another use)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons slivered almonds, toasted (optional)

Dressing:

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon Accent seasoning (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons vinegar

Ingredient Notes:

• For a vegan version, ensure your vegetable oil is plant-based and omit the Accent seasoning, as it may contain animal products.
• You can substitute other types of nuts for the slivered almonds, such as pecans or walnuts.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar.
• Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your personal preference.
• The Top Ramen noodle flavor is up to you, but chicken or oriental flavors tend to work well.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small skillet or baking sheet
• Whisk or fork

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Thinly slice the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline. Finely chop the green onions. Crumble the half-package of Top Ramen noodles into small pieces.
2. Next, toast the sesame seeds. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until they are golden brown and fragrant. This should only take a few minutes; watch them carefully to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can toast them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
3. If using, toast the slivered almonds in the same manner as the sesame seeds – either in a dry skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly.
4. In the large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, chopped green onions, crumbled Top Ramen noodles, toasted sesame seeds, and toasted almonds (if using). Mix gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Now, prepare the dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, pepper, Accent seasoning (if using), salt, sugar, and vinegar. Whisk until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the dressing is well emulsified.
6. Add the dressing to the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients. (Important Note: While it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the noodle’s crunchiness, you can dress the salad earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. The noodles will soften, but the salad will still be delicious. Just remember to stir well before serving.)

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast the sesame seeds and almonds ahead of time to save time when assembling the salad. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
• For a more intense sesame flavor, use toasted sesame oil in the dressing in addition to the toasted sesame seeds. Start with a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) and add more to taste.
• If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-toasted sesame seeds and almonds.
• To prevent the cabbage from becoming too watery, remove the core before slicing it.
• If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar to the dressing. If you prefer a tangier salad, add more vinegar.
• For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Consider adding other vegetables, such as shredded carrots, red bell pepper, or edamame.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Cabbage Salad Supreme immediately after dressing for the best texture. It’s a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or potlucks.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the noodles will soften over time, so the salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you anticipate leftovers, consider dressing only the portion you plan to serve immediately and storing the undressed salad and dressing separately. Do not freeze this salad, as the cabbage and noodles will become soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	243 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	184 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	20.5g	31%
Saturated Fat	2.7g	13%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	603.8mg	25%
Total Carbohydrate	14.7g	4%
Dietary Fiber	3.6g	14%
Sugars	10.1g	N/A
Protein	2.4g	4%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Ensure the vegetable oil is plant-based and omit the Accent seasoning. You may need to add a touch more salt or nutritional yeast for umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is not naturally gluten-free due to the Top Ramen noodles. You can try substituting with gluten-free rice noodles that have been lightly crushed. However, the texture will be different.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium ramen noodles or significantly reduce the salt in the dressing.
• Added Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing.
• Fruit Enhancement: Incorporate dried cranberries, mandarin orange segments, or diced apple for a sweeter and more vibrant flavor profile.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the individual components (sliced cabbage, chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and dressing) ahead of time and store them separately. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to combine everything just before serving to prevent the noodles from getting soggy.

Q: What can I substitute for Accent seasoning?
A: If you don’t have Accent seasoning or prefer not to use it, you can omit it altogether or substitute it with a pinch of MSG, a dash of soy sauce, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added umami flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A: While Top Ramen noodles provide a specific texture and flavor, you can experiment with other types of crunchy noodles, such as chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips. However, the taste and texture of the salad will be different.

Q: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The noodles will soften over time, so the texture will not be as good as when it’s first made.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the cabbage and noodles will become soggy and unappetizing upon thawing.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Salad Supreme is more than just a simple salad; it’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the dressing to your liking. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your friends and family. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to introduce even the most reluctant cabbage eaters to the joys of a well-made salad. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal, or bring it to your next potluck and watch it disappear!