OK, I know this is an art and design blog, but as a mom of two kids with allergies, I feel morally obligated to share new recipes when I find good ones. This is one I modified from an old favorite. A few years ago, a friend introduced to me “Soccer Salad” with Ramen noodles and almond slivers, and I was immediately hooked on the slightly sweet, tangy flavor, and wonderful crunch from the broccoli and ramen noodles. Fast forward a few years to kids who can’t eat nuts, but love to eat anything with chopsticks, and I’ve modified an old favorite side dish into a new allergy-friendly and kid-friendly full meal. Enjoy!
Asian Chicken Slaw
1 bag broccoli slaw (I like Trader Joe’s)
1 pkg chicken flavored Ramen noodles
5 green onions, chopped small
2 T. olive oil
3 T. white vinegar
2 T. sugar
1/2 t. ground ginger
1 cup shredded roast chicken (great way to use leftovers!)
2 T. Ken’s Lite Asian Sesame dressing
Cilantro for garnish
In a small bowl, mix chicken and Ken’s Asian Sesame dressing. Set aside.
Before opening the package of Ramen noodles, gently pound them with a rolling pin or bottom of a heavy cup. Try not to pop the package or you’ll have Ramen bits all over your kitchen. My kids think this is hilarious. I do not.
In a large bowl, gently toss the broccoli slaw mix, the crushed Ramen noodles (hold on to the sauce mix packet for the next step), and the chopped green onions.
In another small bowl, combine oil, vinegar, sugar, ginger, and the powder from the Ramen sauce packet. Add a smidge of salt and pepper if you tend to salt your food. Mix well and pour over the slaw mix in the large bowl. Add the chicken to the large bowl. Toss well to evenly coat everything with dressing. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
Notes:
1. This salad (as many do) tastes even better the next day. If you don’t like your Ramen noodles slightly soft, reserve them and add them at the end when you serve the salad.
2. If you’ve never taught your kids to use chopsticks, try it! It’s like a meal and a game all in one!