This recipe elevates the humble ramen noodle to a gourmet experience by incorporating the rich, delicate flavor of salmon. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. This recipe is adaptable to your taste and what you have on hand, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Salmon:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Ramen:
- 8 oz dried ramen noodles (choose your favorite flavor, but a low-sodium option is recommended)
- 4 cups chicken or fish broth (vegetable broth works well for vegetarians)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (adjust to your taste)
- 2 tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine – adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (balances the sweetness of the mirin)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish – optional)
- Sriracha or other chili sauce (optional, for extra spice)
- Chopped scallions, cilantro, or other herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillet.
Step 2: Cook the Ramen Noodles
- While the salmon is baking, cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them in water for a few minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Broth
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken or fish broth, soy sauce, mirin, and rice vinegar.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked ramen noodles to the simmering broth. Toss gently to coat.
- Once heated through, divide the noodles into bowls.
- Top with the baked salmon fillet, flaked into bite-sized pieces.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and any other desired toppings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, or edamame to the broth along with the noodles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for an extra kick, or serve with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce on the side.
- Different Protein: Substitute the salmon with chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork for a different flavor profile.
- Hard-Boiled Egg: A perfectly cooked hard-boiled egg adds richness and protein.
This Salmon and Ramen Noodle recipe is a delicious and adaptable dish that can be customized to your liking. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect bowl! Enjoy!
