Why You’ll Love this Oriental Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a vibrant and crunchy salad that’s packed with flavor, you’ll absolutely love this Oriental Salad recipe.
I can’t get enough of the delightful combination of textures and tastes. The crispy napa cabbage pairs perfectly with the toasted almonds and sesame seeds, creating a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Plus, the dressing brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates the dish. It’s a fantastic side for any meal or a rejuvenating lunch on its own.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this salad a regular part of your menu!
Ingredients of Oriental Salad
When it comes to whipping up a salad that’s not only delicious but also brings a delightful crunch, the Oriental Salad is definitely a winner. You’ll find that it doesn’t take a million ingredients to create something spectacular. In fact, you probably have many of these components hanging around in your pantry or fridge.
The beauty of this salad lies in the balance of textures and flavors, plus it’s so easy to make. Let’s plunge into what you’ll need to gather before you get started.
Ingredients for Oriental Salad:
- 1 head of napa cabbage
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, but why not?)
- 2 packages of Mr. Noodle soup mix
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1/3 cup sesame seeds
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
Now, before you get all your ingredients out, it’s worth noting a few things about them. For instance, if you’re not a fan of napa cabbage, you could absolutely substitute it with another crunchy green, like iceberg or romaine lettuce.
And those Mr. Noodle packets? They’re not just for soup; they add a fantastic crunch when baked. Just be mindful of the salt levels in the soy sauce and the soup mix; you might want to adjust the added salt accordingly, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
The dressing is where the magic happens—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious. So, get ready to toss all these ingredients together and create something truly scrumptious!
How to Make Oriental Salad
When it comes to making the Oriental Salad, the process is as delightful as the final dish itself. First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees. While that’s warming up, grab that head of napa cabbage and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Place those lovely greens in a big salad bowl, and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, slice up the 2 green onions and toss them in for some extra flavor.
Now, here’s where it gets fun: take the 2 packages of Mr. Noodle soup mix, and instead of just boiling them for soup, break them up in a medium bowl. It’s kind of like a stress relief exercise, right? Just think about all those dinner dilemmas as you crush those noodles into smaller bits.
Next, let’s add some crunch to the mix. To those broken noodles, throw in 1 cup of slivered almonds and 1/3 cup of sesame seeds. Now, pour in 1/3 cup of melted butter—this is where the magic happens! Mix everything up well and spread that glorious mixture onto a cookie sheet. Pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes. Just enough time to do a little dance around the kitchen or maybe even tackle that pile of dishes you’ve been avoiding.
While the noodle mixture is baking to perfection, it’s time to whip up the dressing. In a medium saucepan, combine 2/3 cup of olive oil, 1/3 cup of vinegar, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/8 teaspoon of salt, and 4 tablespoons of soy sauce. Heat it gently until it just starts to boil—then take it off the heat and stir it frequently until it cools down.
Once everything is ready, it’s assembly time. Arrange that lovely napa cabbage in your salad bowl, sprinkle the baked noodle mixture over the top, and pour the cooled dressing all over. Give it a gentle toss, and voilà! You’ve created a colorful, crunchy, and utterly tasty Oriental Salad that’s sure to impress. Just remember, serve it immediately for the best crunch. Enjoy!
Oriental Salad Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Oriental Salad is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a crunchier texture, swap napa cabbage for romaine or add some shredded carrots. If you’re looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or tofu works great.
For a nutty flavor, try using walnuts instead of almonds. You can even experiment with the dressing; adding a splash of orange juice or switching to rice vinegar can change the flavor profile entirely.
Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch!
What to Serve with Oriental Salad
Oriental salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a delightful protein boost. It also complements Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki or stir-fried vegetables perfectly.
If I’m hosting a casual gathering, I often pair it with spring rolls or dumplings, creating a revitalizing and satisfying spread.
For a lighter option, I’ll serve it with a simple miso soup.
No matter the occasion, this salad adds a fresh crunch that enhances any menu, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Additional Tips & Notes
Serving Oriental salad alongside your favorite dishes is just the beginning.
To elevate the flavors, consider adding shredded carrots or diced bell peppers for extra crunch. If you’re looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or tofu works beautifully.
I like to prepare the dressing a day ahead; it allows the flavors to meld perfectly. For extra texture, try substituting the almonds with cashews or walnuts.
And remember, serve the salad immediately after adding the dressing to keep the noodles crispy.
Finally, adjust the sweetness to your taste; a little less sugar can balance the vinegar nicely. Enjoy!