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If you crave a salad that combines irresistible crunch, vibrant freshness, and a perfectly balanced tangy dressing, then you are going to adore the Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe. This delightful dish brings together crispy noodles, crunchy toasted almonds, and crisp Chinese cabbage with layers of flavor from sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels light yet satisfying, and it’s so simple to prepare—making it a treasured recipe to keep on hand for gatherings or a fresh weekday lunch that totally wows.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe is easier than you think. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the salad’s legendary texture and flavor — from the crisp crunch of the cabbage to the nutty aroma of toasted almonds and the irresistible snap of crispy noodles.
- Chinese cabbage (wombok): Provides a fresh, crisp base with mild sweetness perfect for shredding.
- Chang’s crispy noodles: Use the fine, delicate noodles—these bring the signature crunch without overpowering the salad.
- Green onions: Thinly sliced on the diagonal to add a subtle sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
- Slivered almonds: Lightly toasted to develop a warm, nutty flavor that complements the noodles perfectly.
- White vinegar: The acidic zing that balances the savory and sweet elements.
- Sugar: A hint of sweetness—white or brown works—to round out the dressing.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami depth; use all-purpose or light soy for brightness but avoid dark soy to keep dressing light.
- Sesame oil: Toasted, brown sesame oil imparts an irresistible nutty richness that ties the flavors together.
- Olive oil: Adds smoothness and body to the dressing without heaviness.
How to Make Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Almonds to Perfection
Start by gently toasting the slivered almonds over medium heat in a dry skillet until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step releases their natural oils and intensifies their nutty flavor. Be sure to remove them promptly to avoid burning, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Whip Up the Simple Dressing
Combine white vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and olive oil in a jar. Shake it vigorously until the sugar dissolves completely. This dressing is delightfully balanced with tang, sweetness, and savory notes, and it can happily rest in your fridge for up to three weeks, ready whenever you crave this salad.
Step 3: Shred the Chinese Cabbage
Slice the Chinese cabbage lengthwise down the middle to make handling easier, especially if using a large one. Then thinly slice into fine shreds, focusing mostly on the leafy top half which is tender and crisp. Reserve the thick white ribs for another use—they shine beautifully in stir fries.
Step 4: Toss the Salad Components Together
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, toasted almonds, and sliced green onions. Pour the fresh dressing over the mixture and toss everything well so every strand and nut is coated with that luscious flavor.
Step 5: Add the Crispy Noodles Just Before Serving
To keep those delicate crispy noodles wonderfully crunchy, toss them in only right before serving. This final step ensures they maintain their snap, making every bite a fantastic textural experience.
How to Serve Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, consider sprinkling on some chopped fresh cilantro or a few extra toasted almonds right before serving. Thinly sliced red chili or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can also add exciting layers of flavor without overpowering the salad’s balance.
Side Dishes
This crispy noodle salad pairs beautifully with lighter mains like grilled chicken, seared fish, or even tofu. It also complements Asian-inspired entrees such as teriyaki beef or sesame-glazed salmon, offering a refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad layered in a glass bowl for a special occasion so the colorful ingredients shine through. Alternatively, build individual portions in small lettuce cups, adding a fun and interactive element to your meal. Even arranging the salad on a large platter with crispy noodles sprinkled like confetti invites appetites to dive right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe, store the salad mixture (without crispy noodles) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the crispy noodles separate and add them just before serving to preserve their crunch.
Freezing
This salad does not freeze well because the fresh cabbage and crispy noodles lose their texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a short refrigerated timeframe.
Reheating
Since this dish is served cold and relies on crisp textures, reheating is neither necessary nor recommended. If the salad has been chilled, simply allow it to come to room temperature before adding the crispy noodles for optimal enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this salad?
Yes, while Chinese cabbage (wombok) is traditional because of its tenderness and mild flavor, Napa cabbage or even green cabbage can work. Just be sure to slice it finely and adjust the dressing slightly if your cabbage variety is stronger or tougher.
Where can I find Chang’s crispy noodles?
Chang’s crispy noodles are usually available at Asian grocery stores or specialty food shops. If you can’t find the fine crispy noodles, try substituting with thin fried rice noodles, but avoid chunky versions to maintain the perfect texture balance.
Is the dressing very strong in flavor?
The dressing strikes a lovely balance—bright and tangy from the vinegar, slightly sweet, and rich from sesame and soy. It’s flavorful without being overpowering, enhancing the crunch and freshness without masking them.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use a soy sauce that doesn’t contain fish ingredients. It’s a fresh, plant-based dish full of texture and flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this salad?
Thanks to its simple, no-cook ingredients, you can have the Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe ready in around 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you want something fresh but quick.
Final Thoughts
Chang’s Crispy Noodle Salad Recipe is one of those rare salads that everyone loves—crunchy, tangy, fresh, and super satisfying all at once. Once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and again, whether for casual meals or impressive gatherings. Don’t hesitate: grab those ingredients and give it a whirl—you’re in for a real treat!
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