Description
A refreshing and flavorful cucumber and tofu salad tossed in a savory sesame-soy dressing. Packed with crunch, protein, and a subtle spicy kick, it’s a perfect light meal or vibrant side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 14 ounces firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 large cucumber or 2 small, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: If using a skillet, heat it over medium heat. If using an air fryer, preheat to 375°F.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and chili flakes to create the dressing.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Add a touch of oil to your skillet or air fryer tray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Dish: Toss the tofu cubes in a little bit of the dressing, then cook until golden and crispy (about 6 to 8 minutes). Meanwhile, place the sliced cucumbers and green onions in a large bowl.
- Cook to Perfection: Once the tofu is crisped and caramelized, let it cool slightly before adding it to the cucumbers.
- Finishing Touches: Pour the remaining dressing over everything, toss gently, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temp. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
Notes
- Use Persian or English cucumbers for less moisture and better crunch.
- Press tofu well to remove water for crispier texture.
- Letting the salad sit before serving enhances flavor.
- Add lime juice or crushed nuts for extra brightness and crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber tofu salad, vegan tofu salad, sesame tofu salad, refreshing tofu salad, Asian cucumber salad