I’m already dreaming of those hot August River trips—long days on the water and warm evenings when cooking feels like too much. That’s when I turn to the super simple, no-cook menu I designed specifically for summer nights. This recipe is one of my go-to favorites from my cookbook featuring tasty meals with absolutely no cooking required. Yep, you read that right—not a single burner or flame needed! Grab the cookbook and make your next trip even easier: LINK to BUY ON AMAZON
Chinese Chicken Salad
(Crunchy, Flavorful & Easy – Vegetarian Option Available!)
Chinese Chicken Salad—crunchy, tangy, and packed with flavor. Once the summer heat hits give this one a try. It is one of my favorites!
Servings: 4 hearty portions
Ingredients
- 2 packages Top Ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded)
- ¾ to 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 7–8 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup grated carrots (about 1 large carrot)
- 12.5 to 20 oz. canned chicken, drained
- 6 Tbsp. sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable or olive oil
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ cup white wine vinegar
- 1 ½ tsp. black pepper
- ¾ cup slivered or sliced almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables & Noodles:
- Core and thinly slice the cabbage.
- Chop the green onions.
- Grate the carrot.
- While the Top Ramen noodles are still in their package, carefully crush them into small bite-sized pieces. Discard the seasoning packets (too salty!).
- Mix the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, green onions, carrots, and crushed ramen noodles.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, salt, vinegar, and black pepper until fully emulsified (about 1–2 minutes).
- Combine & Marinate:
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well.
- Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the noodles to soften slightly.
- Add the Chicken & Almonds:
- Just before serving, fold in the drained chicken and slivered almonds. Toss lightly and serve immediately.
Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the chicken for a delicious vegetarian version!