Looking for a delicious, healthy, and meal prep-friendly recipe that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than this Tofu Tahini Lunch Salad! Packed with vibrant mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crispy tofu, this Asian-inspired salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Whether you're trying to eat healthier or simply want a quick and satisfying lunch option, this recipe is your ticket to flavorful meal prep success. Dive into the world of easy cooking and discover how to whip up this delightful salad in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Firm tofu, cubed
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Tahini
- Lemon juice
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Press tofu to remove excess moisture: Wrap tofu block in clean kitchen towel, place a heavy skillet on top for 15 minutes to extract water, then cube into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Prepare marinade by whisking together tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray with cooking oil. Add tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve golden-brown crispy edges.
- Pour half of the prepared tahini marinade over tofu while cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly and coat the cubes evenly.
- Remove tofu from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- In a large salad bowl, layer mixed greens as the base, then arrange sliced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Gently place cooled marinated tofu cubes on top of the salad.
- Drizzle remaining tahini dressing over the entire salad just before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Tips
- Press the Tofu: Don’t skip the pressing step! Removing excess moisture from the tofu helps it achieve that coveted crispy texture when cooked. Using a heavy skillet for pressing works wonders!
- Customize the Marinade: Feel free to tweak the tahini marinade by adding spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor kick. Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect blend!
- Perfectly Cooked Tofu: Keep an eye on the tofu while it cooks. You want it to be golden brown and crispy on the outside, so make sure to turn it occasionally for even cooking.
- Layering is Key: When assembling your salad, layer the mixed greens first, then add the cucumber and tomatoes. This not only looks appealing but also helps to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
- Serving Suggestions: For added texture and flavor, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. It elevates the dish and makes it even more visually appealing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
