Print

Spicy Tofu Salad Bowls Recipe

4.8 from 605 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Spicy Tofu Salad Bowl featuring crispy pan-fried tofu, fresh crunchy vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing. This easy-to-make recipe combines a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Seasoning

  • 8 oz tofu
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 2 tbsp oil (for frying)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Vegetables

  • 1 small head romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
  • ½ English cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 small head red cabbage, shredded
  • 12 green onions, sliced
  • ½ cup carrot, shredded

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp tamari
  • 2 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp honey
  • ¼ tsp garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Garnish

  • ¼ cup roasted peanuts
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu: Drain the tofu well by pressing out as much moisture as possible. Pat it dry with a clean towel, then slice into bite-sized ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  2. Prep the vegetables: Roughly chop the romaine lettuce, thinly slice the cucumber, shred the red cabbage and carrots, and slice the green onions. Combine all the veggies in a large salad bowl.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, tamari, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame seeds until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
  4. Cook the tofu: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until they turn golden and crispy on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and dashes of hot sauce to add a spicy kick. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
  5. Assemble the salad: Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables, then add the cooked tofu cubes. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors.
  6. Serve: Plate the salad bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, roasted peanuts, and lime wedges for an extra fresh and crunchy finish. Enjoy while the tofu is still warm!

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu is essential to achieve crispy texture.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
  • Can be made vegan by using maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
  • Serve immediately for best texture, as the tofu may soften if left too long in the dressing.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but may lose some crispiness.

Keywords: spicy tofu salad, tofu salad bowl, crispy tofu recipe, healthy tofu salad, vegetarian salad, Asian tofu salad