Hey, friends!
Looking for a fresh and tasty dish? I’ve got something special for you today!
I’m excited to share my easy-to-make tofu salad.
It’s packed with flavor and crunch, plus it’s super healthy!
Whether you’re a tofu lover or just curious, this salad is a game-changer.
Let’s dive in!
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Extra firm tofu can be replaced with tempeh for a nuttier flavor and higher protein content. Crumble the tempeh and adjust cooking time as it may cook faster than tofu. For a non-vegan option, diced chicken breast can be used, maintaining similar protein levels.
Soy sauce can be substituted with coconut aminos for a soy-free, lower-sodium alternative. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe, but consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave nectar. Use slightly less honey or agave as they are sweeter than maple syrup. For a sugar-free option, try stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the quantity to taste. These substitutions maintain the recipe’s sweetness while accommodating different dietary preferences.
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35-55 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 600-700
- Protein: 45-55 g
- Fat: 35-40 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
For the tofu and marinade:
- 1 tsp cornflour
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (I use Lee Kum Kee brand for authentic flavor)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savoy flavors)
- 16 oz extra firm tofu (pressed well to remove excess water)
For the salad:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved for easier eating)
- 6 cups romaine lettuce (chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups cucumber (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (thinly sliced for better distribution)
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 medium avocado (ripe but firm, diced right before serving)
- 1/4 cup pickled ginger
- 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
For the dressing and garnish:
- 1 portion of tahini dressing
- additional sesame seeds
- chopped chives (for a fresh, savory garnish)
Step 1: Press the Tofu
Begin by pressing the tofu for 20 minutes.
Ideally, use a tofu press, but if you don’t have one, you can still achieve the same effect by standing the tofu on a plate, placing another plate on top, and then stacking something heavy on it, such as a heavy pot or some books.
This will help remove excess moisture from the tofu.
Step 2: Prepare Marinade Sauce and Marinate Tofu
In a bowl or measuring jug, whisk together soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce to create a flavorful sauce.
Leave the cornstarch aside for later use.
Once the tofu has finished pressing, cut it into cubes and place them in a glass dish.
Pour the marinade sauce over the tofu cubes, ensuring both sides are well-covered.
Place the dish in the fridge and let the tofu marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Tofu
After the tofu has marinated, heat a frying pan and add a little sesame oil.
Remove the tofu from the marinade and fry the cubes in the pan until they turn golden brown.
Meanwhile, add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the leftover marinade sauce and mix well.
Pour this thickened sauce over the fried tofu cubes in the pan, stirring until the sauce coats the tofu and thickens further.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad Ingredients
While the tofu is frying, start assembling your salad.
In a large salad bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
Layer with sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and chopped red bell pepper.
Follow with grated carrot, chopped green onion, pickled ginger, chopped basil, and sesame seeds.
Toss the ingredients together to mix evenly.
Step 5: Add Tofu and Dressing to Salad
Once the tofu is cooked and coated in sauce, add it to the salad bowl.
Toss everything together gently to combine.
Prepare your preferred salad dressing, then pour it over the top and toss the salad once more to ensure even coating.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your salad by topping it with chopped avocado, an additional sprinkle of sesame seeds, and some chopped chives.
Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful meal!
