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Crunchy Asian Sesame Broccoli Ramen Salad

Asian sesame broccoli ramen salad - featured image

A quick and easy crunchy salad featuring fresh broccoli, toasted ramen noodles, and a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 300g)
  • 1 (3-ounce) package uncooked instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (black and white mixed preferred)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts (optional)
  • 3 sliced green onions
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and cut broccoli into small florets (about 3 cups). Set aside.
  2. Open the ramen noodles package, discard the seasoning packet, and crush the noodles roughly by hand or with the back of a spoon.
  3. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed noodles and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.
  4. In the same skillet, toast sesame seeds and nuts over medium heat until lightly browned and aromatic, about 2-3 minutes. Add to the bowl with toasted noodles.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust sweetness or tang as desired.
  6. Add broccoli florets, sliced green onions, and shredded carrots (if using) to the bowl with ramen and seeds. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  7. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and broccoli to absorb the dressing.

Notes

Toast ramen noodles over medium heat stirring frequently to avoid burning. For extra crunch, add toasted noodles just before serving if preparing ahead. Fresh garlic and ginger are preferred for best flavor. Blanch broccoli briefly if softer texture is desired. Store salad and crunchy noodles separately to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli salad, ramen salad, sesame salad, crunchy salad, Asian side dish, quick salad, potluck recipe