Crispy Asian Tofu Salad with Zesty Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this delectable Crispy Asian Tofu Salad, perfect for lunch or dinner! Infused with aromatic ginger, garlic, and scallions, this salad combines crispy, golden tofu bites with a refreshing mix of greens. The soy sauce and sesame oil marinade adds a burst of umami flavor, while optional lemongrass infuses a subtle citrus note. It’s not just a great meat substitute; it's a satisfying dish that works beautifully on its own or as a hearty addition to any meal. Drizzle with balsamic or rice vinegar for an extra zing, and enjoy a bowl that's not only scrumptious but also nutritious. Just remember—don’t peek while cooking to ensure maximum crispiness!
N/A
Servings
100
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
organic extra firm tofu
14 ounces (drained, pressed, and sliced)
soy sauce
3 tablespoons (whisked into marinade)
scallion
1-2 (sliced thin (white and green parts))
garlic cloves
2 (smashed with back of knife)
fresh ginger
1 inch (sliced)
dried lemongrass
1 teaspoon (optional, can use fresh lemongrass (1 tablespoon))
sesame oil
1 teaspoon (whisked into marinade)
salt and pepper
to taste (added to marinade)
Instructions
1
In a 9x9 inch square baking dish, whisk together soy sauce, sliced scallion, smashed garlic, fresh ginger, lemongrass (if using), sesame oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
2
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice it in half lengthwise for two thinner slabs. Blot with a paper towel to ensure it’s dry.
3
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and coat it with non-stick spray. Gently place tofu slabs in the skillet and allow them to grill undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
4
Once crispy, transfer the tofu into the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated. Using a sharp knife, cut each slab into 16 squares by first slicing three times lengthwise and then three times widthwise.
5
Gently toss the tofu in the marinade, making sure it's evenly coated. Let it marinate for a maximum of 30 minutes, removing garlic and ginger slices before serving.
6
Serve the crispy tofu warm, at room temperature, or chilled atop a bed of fresh greens, and drizzle with vinegar dressing of your choice.
Nutrition Information
5.5g
Fat
5g
Carbs
8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein source for this recipe?
The primary protein source is 14 ounces of organic extra firm tofu.
Is the Crispy Asian Tofu Salad vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan-friendly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as gluten-free, though you should ensure your soy sauce is a gluten-free variety.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 100 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of this dish?
This recipe contains 5.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in the salad?
Each serving contains 5g of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this salad provide?
This recipe provides 8g of protein per serving.
What type of tofu is best for this recipe?
Organic extra firm tofu is recommended because it holds its shape and crisps up well.
How should I prepare the tofu before cooking?
You should drain, press out excess moisture, and slice the tofu into thin slabs.
How do I ensure the tofu gets maximum crispiness?
Blot the tofu dry with paper towels and allow it to grill undisturbed in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade consists of soy sauce, scallions, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and optional lemongrass.
How do I prepare the garlic for the marinade?
The garlic cloves should be smashed with the back of a knife.
How should the ginger be prepared?
The fresh ginger should be sliced before being added to the marinade.
Can I use fresh lemongrass instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried lemongrass with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemongrass.
What is the purpose of the sesame oil?
Sesame oil is used in the marinade to provide a rich, nutty umami flavor.
Do I marinate the tofu before grilling?
No, in this recipe, you grill the tofu first and then transfer the crispy slabs into the marinade.
How long should the tofu marinate?
The tofu should marinate for a maximum of 30 minutes.
Should I remove the aromatics before serving?
Yes, you should remove the garlic and ginger slices from the marinade before serving the dish.
How should the tofu be sliced for serving?
After grilling, cut each slab into 16 squares by slicing three times lengthwise and three times widthwise.
What temperature should the salad be served at?
It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
What should the tofu be served on?
The crispy tofu should be served atop a bed of fresh greens.
What kind of dressing is recommended for this salad?
A drizzle of balsamic or rice vinegar is recommended for an extra zing.
What pan is best for frying the tofu?
A non-stick skillet coated with non-stick spray is recommended for grilling the tofu.
How many scallions are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 scallions, thinly sliced.
What size baking dish should be used for the marinade?
A 9x9 inch square baking dish is ideal for whisking and holding the marinade.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, because it can be served chilled or at room temperature, it makes a great lunch or dinner addition.
Does this recipe contain salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper are added to the marinade to taste.
Is this a meat substitute recipe?
Yes, the crispy tofu serves as a satisfying and hearty meat substitute.
How many grams of fiber are in this dish?
The fiber content is not specified for this particular recipe.
What flavor profile does this salad have?
It features a savory, umami flavor profile with citrus notes from lemongrass and zing from vinegar.