Whether it’s the nostalgia or undeniable convenience, most of us would agree that a package of instant ramen noodles is one of our favorite quick comfort foods. They can be totally satisfying on their own, but have you considered upgrading your instant ramen? Read on for our favorite hacks to help you cut the sodium and transform that bowl of noodles into a healthy and satisfying meal. We’ve also included five simple recipe ideas to get you started.
Healthy Ramen Soup Recipes
A Word on Sodium…
Traditional packaged ramen is high in sodium—about 800 mg per serving—with nearly all of the sodium coming from the flavor packet. If you’re attempting to cut back on salt, try using half of the packet and add flavor with other ingredients, like spices or fresh herbs. Check out our flavor boosting suggestions below for more ideas! You can also look for varieties made with less sodium. We’re fans ofThai Kitchenpackaged instant noodle soups, which come in more reasonably at about 550 mg sodium per serving.
To keep the salt in check, some recipes serve 2, while others serve 1! You’ll see the serving sizes listed below each recipe image.
How to Turn a Package of Instant Noodles into a Complete Meal
Carolyn A. Hodges, R.D.
Bulk it up with vegetables
Add a source of protein
A package of ramen doesn’t contain much protein, so adding some of your own will help turn your bowl into a satisfying meal. Keep things simple—think canned beans, frozen edamame or cooked shrimp. Leftover cooked chicken or cubed tofu works great, too. And don’t forget about eggs, one of our favorite convenient proteins. We use them in both theEgg Drop Soup with Instant Noodles, Spinach & ScallionsandSesame Instant Ramen Noodles with Broccoli & Soft-Boiled Egg.
Read More:10 Foods with More Protein Than an Egg
Boost flavor and freshness
You likely have a number of flavor-boosting ingredients in your pantry and spice cabinet. If you’re trying to reduce the sodium, swap out some of the seasoning packet for dried herbs and spices. Garlic powder, curry powder, dried ginger and red pepper flakes all work well. Add fresh herbs like cilantro, scallions and parsley just before serving for a pop of freshness. Toss cooked and drained noodles with toasted sesame oil or add canned coconut milk to the broth for added richness (like we do inCoconut Shrimp Curry with Instant Ramen Noodles).
Looking for more?See how to amp upcanned soupandfrozen raviolito make them healthy meals!
5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Instant Ramen Noodles
Take that quick bowl of instant noodles to the next level with these five extra-easy and fast recipes ideas. Refer to package label for water amounts and cook times.
Pasta e Fagioli with Instant Ramen Noodles
Serves:2
Quick sautéed vegetables, canned tomatoes, dried oregano and canned beans transform ramen noodles into this classic Italian favorite in minutes.
Sesame Instant Ramen Noodles with Broccoli & Soft-Boiled Egg
Serves:1
Jazz up basic ramen noodles with toasted sesame oil, cooked broccoli and a jammy soft-boiled egg.
Egg Drop Soup with Instant Noodles, Spinach & Scallions
Coconut Shrimp Curry with Instant Ramen Noodles
A splash of coconut milk and some curry powder elevate ordinary ramen soup into a memorable bowl of noodles. Add protein with cooked shrimp or cubed tofu and a pop of freshness with cilantro and lime juice.
See More:Healthy Curry Recipes
Spicy Garlic Instant Noodles with Edamame & Red Peppers
Spice up a package of instant noodles with fresh garlic and red pepper flakes for heat, plus edamame for added protein.
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