Description
This vibrant Tofu Salad with Savory Dressing is a refreshing, nutritious dish featuring crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful baked tofu, all tossed in a tangy miso-based dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this salad combines textures and tastes for a satisfying vegan meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce
- 1/2 English cucumber
- 3-4 green onions
- 1 cup carrot, shredded
- 2/3 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 batch Easy Baked Tofu (approximately 14 ounces firm tofu)
- 1-2 Tbsp. Thai basil (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar, unseasoned
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. tamari
- 2 tsp. white miso
- 2 tsp. pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. freshly grated ginger
- 1 tsp. sesame seeds
Instructions
- Make the tofu: Begin by preparing the Easy Baked Tofu as per the recipe instructions. This typically involves pressing the tofu, marinating it, and baking it in the oven until golden and firm.
- Prepare the veggies: While the tofu bakes, wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Thinly slice the cucumber into half-moon shapes and slice the green onions; add them to the bowl. Add the shredded carrots as well.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, tamari, white miso, pure maple syrup, garlic powder, freshly grated ginger, and sesame seeds. Whisk thoroughly until the miso dissolves completely and the dressing has a smooth consistency.
- Combine: Once the tofu is finished baking and has cooled slightly, add it to the salad bowl. Sprinkle the roasted peanuts over the top. Pour the dressing evenly over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine all the flavors. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side.
- Garnish: For additional flavor and color, garnish the salad with fresh Thai basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for the best freshness and texture.
Notes
- Press the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water for better baking results.
- If Thai basil is unavailable, substitute with fresh cilantro or mint for a different herbal note.
- For added crunch, toasted sesame seeds or additional roasted peanuts can be sprinkled on top.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste, adding more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dressing or more tamari for saltiness.
- This salad is best consumed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
