Crunchy Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad (gluten-free & refined sugar-free!)

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad is your classic potluck favorite made gluten-free! It’s loaded with crisp coleslaw mix, crunchy gluten-free ramen noodles, toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds all tossed in a sweet sesame dressing sweetened with monk fruit instead of refined sugar.

If you’re looking for an easy salad that’s packed with crunch, flavor, and nostalgia, this Crunchy Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad is about to become your new (old) favorite. Made with crunchy coleslaw mix, gluten-free ramen noodles, sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and a sweet and tangy dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, holiday gatherings, meal prep, or busy weeknight dinners.

This salad comes together in minutes, requires no cooking beyond lightly toasting the crunchy toppings, and tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to mingle. It’s naturally dairy-free and can easily be made vegan and gluten-free by using gluten-free ramen noodles and liquid aminos.

Whether you’re headed to a backyard barbecue, Memorial Day picnic, Fourth of July gathering, or simply need a fresh side dish for dinner, this crunchy cabbage salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and cookouts
• Naturally dairy-free
• Easily made gluten-free using gluten-free ramen noodles and liquid aminos/Tamari
• Loaded with texture and crunch
• Great for meal prep
• Crunchy, savory, tangy, sweet, and nutty all in one bite

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad

Coleslaw Mix. A convenient shortcut made with shredded greed and red cabbage and carrots that creates the perfect crunchy salad base. I like this one.

Gluten-Free Ramen Noodle Cakes. The star ingredient that adds irresistible crunch and texture. Be sure to use certified gluten-free ramen noodles.

Sunflower Seeds. Toasted raw sunflower seeds bring richness, texture, and healthy fats to the salad.

Sliced Almonds. Light, crunchy, and slightly sweet, sliced almonds pair perfectly with the sesame dressing.

Sesame Seeds. Add subtle nutty flavor and a little extra crunch. You want regular/raw sesame seeds, not toasted sesame seeds, since we will be toasting them in the oven.

Green Onions. Provide a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.

For the Dressing

Avocado Oil. A neutral-flavored oil that creates a smooth dressing. I love using avocado oil in both my sweet and savory recipes.

Monkfruit Sweetener. Monkfruit sweetener adds sweetness to the dressing without adding refined white sugar like a lot of other ramen noodle salad recipes call for, keeping this recipe refined sugar-free!

Rice Vinegar. Provides the perfect tangy balance. I used this one.

Liquid Aminos. Liquid aminos, a replacement for soy sauce, adds savory umami flavor while keeping the dressing gluten-free. You can also use Tamari gluten-free soy sauce.

Sesame Oil. A little goes a long way to create that classic Asian-inspired flavor.

Garlic Powder. Brings savory flavor to the dressing without overpowering the other ingredients.

Black Pepper. Adds flavor.

Products Used In This Recipe

How to Make Crunchy Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Add the sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds to a baking sheet. Break the gluten-free ramen noodle cakes into small pieces and add those to the baking sheet.

Bake for 5 minutes, toss and then bake an additional 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a jar or small bowl, whisk together:

• Avocado oil
• Rice wine vinegar
• Liquid aminos
• Monk fruit sweetener
• Sesame oil
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Coleslaw mix
• Green onions
• Toasted sunflower seeds, sliced almonds, sesame seeds and ramen noodles

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.

Step 4: Serve

For best flavor, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving. Toss again just before serving.

Tips for Success

• Add the ramen noodles right before serving if you want maximum crunch.
• Toasting the nuts and seeds enhances their flavor.
• Make the dressing up to 3 days in advance.
• Double the recipe for parties and cookouts.

Variations

Add Protein

Turn this side dish into a complete meal by adding:

• Crispy baked tofu
• Edamame
• Chickpeas
• Grilled vegan chicken

Try mixing in:

• Snap peas
• Mandarin oranges

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

💡 Keep in mind that the ramen noodles will soften over time as they absorb the dressing. If preparing ahead, store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare all the ingredients and dressing separately, then toss together shortly before serving for the best texture.

Is ramen noodle salad gluten-free?

Traditional ramen noodles contain wheat. To keep this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free ramen noodles. You will also need to use liquid aminos or Tamari gluten-free soy sauce, as traditional soy sauce is not gluten-free.

Can I make this salad nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply replace the sliced almonds with pumpkin seeds or additional sunflower seeds.

What should I serve with this ramen noodle cabbage salad?

This salad pairs perfectly with veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, baked beans, potato salad, sandwiches, and summer cookout favorites. It’s also a great meal all on its own served with plant-based chicken or crispy tofu!

This Crunchy Ramen Noodle Cabbage Salad is one of those timeless recipes that never goes out of style. With its irresistible crunch, sweet and tangy dressing, and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for everything from family dinners to summer celebrations. Once you try this gluten-free version, you’ll understand why it’s been a potluck favorite for generations.

Let me know how you like this easy Asian-inspired salad down below in the comments section, as well as giving it a 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ so that others can discover a gluten-free version of a classic! Tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make it! Happy crunching!

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