Crunchy, savory, and tossed in a toasted sesame dressing—this slaw is the perfect side or light meal.
Let’s Talk Ramen Slaw 🌿🍜
This cold ramen salad is one of my go-to dishes, especially in warm weather or for potlucks.
It’s crunchy, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
The toasted almonds and sesame seeds give it that perfect nutty crunch, and the sweet-salty dressing ties everything together.
You just toss and serve—it doesn’t get easier.
What You’ll Need
Slaw
- 1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1 packet ramen noodles, crushed (discard seasoning)
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Dressing
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger

Why I Love This Recipe ❤️
This one’s been a staple at family cookouts and friend get-togethers. I first had a version of this at a picnic, and I went home determined to make it my own. Now, I make it almost weekly!
- It’s easy to make ahead
- No cooking required
- The crunchy texture is amazing
- Sweet + salty + tangy = flavor heaven
- Feeds a crowd or keeps well for days

Servings + Time
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (just to toast)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science 🧪)
- Ramen noodles absorb the dressing slightly, softening just a bit but keeping crunch.
- Coleslaw mix stays crisp longer than leafy greens.
- Sesame oil is packed with flavor, so just a little goes a long way.
- Toasting the almonds and noodles brings out their natural nuttiness and depth.
Common Mistakes 😬
- Using the ramen seasoning packet – it’s too salty and not needed.
- Not crushing the noodles – you want small crunchy bits, not big chunks.
- Adding dressing too early – wait until just before serving for max crunch.
- Skipping toasting – it really boosts flavor!
What to Serve With 🍗
- Grilled teriyaki chicken
- Asian BBQ ribs
- Salmon or shrimp
- Potstickers or spring rolls
- Fresh fruit or watermelon wedges
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Just keep the dressing and crunchy bits separate until ready to serve.
Do I have to toast the almonds and noodles?
Highly recommend it. It adds flavor and better texture.
Can I use bagged shredded carrots instead of slaw mix?
Sure, just add some shredded cabbage to keep it balanced.
👨🍳 Let’s Make It!
Step 1: Toast the Almonds & Crushed Ramen
Add ½ cup sliced almonds and 1 packet of crushed ramen noodles to a dry skillet. Toast over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and fragrant. Then remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon ground ginger until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 (16 oz) bag of coleslaw mix, 3 thinly sliced scallions, and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds. Gently toss.

Step 4: Add the Toasted Crunch
Pour in the toasted almond and ramen mixture into the slaw and gently toss again.

Step 5: Drizzle & Toss
Pour the dressing over the whole slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle extra scallions or sesame seeds on top if you like.

Pro Tips 🌟
- Break the ramen into small bits before toasting for perfect crunch.
- Use pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time—no chopping!
- Toast everything in one pan but stir constantly so it doesn’t burn.
- Keep dressing separate until serving if making ahead.
- Double the dressing if you like extra flavor or are using more slaw.
Tools You’ll Need 🛠️
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk
- Skillet
- Salad tongs
- Measuring cups & spoons
Substitutions & Variations 🔁
- Swap almonds for sunflower seeds or chopped cashews
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for vegan version
- Add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make it a meal
- Spice it up with a dash of sriracha in the dressing
- Try Napa cabbage for a softer crunch
Make-Ahead Tips
- Toast the almonds and noodles, and store them in an airtight container
- Mix the dressing and refrigerate
- Toss everything together right before serving
Leftovers & Storage 🥡
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge
- Good for up to 3 days
- The noodles will soften over time, but it’s still tasty
- Add a splash of fresh dressing or vinegar before eating again to freshen it up
Let’s Wrap It Up 🎉
That’s it! Crunchy, savory, and loaded with texture—this Asian Sesame Ramen Slaw is a total crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try and make it your own. When you do, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or if you made any fun changes!
Happy cooking 🥢💛