If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and filling meal, this tofu salad recipe is the perfect choice. The crisp vegetables, rich flavors from the dressing, and crispy tofu create a harmonious combination that will leave you feeling satisfied without being too heavy.
The dressing, with its tangy lime notes and sweet maple syrup, ties everything together in a delightful way. Plus, it’s a wonderfully versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your preferences.
1. Tofu Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the Tofu
- 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- Juice of 5 large limes
- Zest of 2 large limes
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/2 + 1 cup + 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Salad
- 3 cups salad greens (I recommend a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup kale, chopped and stemmed
- 1/4 cup edamame, cooked
- 1 large bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup peanuts or cashews (depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the ginger, garlic, maple syrup (or honey), lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking by adding more maple syrup or lime juice if needed. Set aside so the flavors can meld.
Crispy Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into cubes. In a shallow bowl, toss the tofu cubes with cornstarch, soy sauce, and maple syrup until evenly coated. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the tofu until it’s golden and crispy on all sides, around 7-10 minutes. Set aside once cooked.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, kale, edamame, bell pepper, cucumber, and your choice of peanuts or cashews. Give everything a good toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
Add the Tofu: Gently fold the crispy tofu cubes into the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. Garnish with fresh cilantro and extra nuts if desired.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best texture, or store the salad in the fridge if you’re preparing it ahead of time. The dressing will keep well for several days, so you can make it in advance and store it separately.
2. Tips for Perfect Tofu Salad
Press the Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture from the tofu helps it crisp up nicely when sautéed and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Crispy Tofu: To achieve perfectly crispy tofu, make sure to coat it evenly in cornstarch and cook it on medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking to ensure the tofu becomes golden and crisp without burning.
Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier dressing, feel free to adjust the lime juice or maple syrup levels. The key is balancing the sweetness from the syrup with the acidity from the lime and soy sauce.
Use Fresh Veggies: For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh, crunchy vegetables. Crisp bell peppers, cucumbers, and edamame add the right balance to the creamy tofu and the tangy dressing.
Make It Your Own: This recipe is super customizable. Add more veggies like shredded carrots, avocado, or radishes. If you like more protein, consider adding chickpeas, grilled tempeh, or extra edamame.
3. Serving Suggestions
On Its Own: This tofu salad is a complete meal. The crispy tofu provides enough protein to keep you full, while the crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing add layers of flavor. It’s perfect as a light lunch or dinner.
With Grains: If you want a heartier meal, serve this salad over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. The grains soak up the dressing and make the dish even more filling.
As a Side: This tofu salad makes a great side dish for grilled meats or other plant-based dishes. Pair it with a veggie burger or alongside a bowl of soup for a balanced meal.
Wrap It Up: If you prefer a handheld meal, try turning this salad into a wrap by rolling it up in large lettuce leaves or a tortilla. Add extra sauce for a flavorful lunch or dinner option.
I’ve always been a fan of tofu salads because they combine textures and flavors in such a delightful way. The crispy tofu, crunchy veggies, and tangy-sweet dressing come together to create a fresh, satisfying meal. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is—you can adjust the dressing and ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant meal that’s both filling and nourishing, give this tofu salad recipe a try. It’s a dish that brings together the best of plant-based eating and can easily become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!
