Elevate your weeknight meals with this High Protein Stir-Fried Spinach, a quick and nutrient-packed dish bursting with flavor. Perfect for vegetarians and health-conscious food lovers, this recipe combines tender spinach, crispy tofu, and protein-rich chickpeas, all stir-fried in fragrant sesame oil with garlic, ginger, and a touch of heat from red chili flakes. Tossed with coconut aminos for a wholesome, gluten-free umami twist, and finished with toasted sesame seeds, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes and offers a balanced blend of plant-based proteins and vibrant greens. Serve it solo for a light yet satisfying meal or pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for extra heartiness. Packed with essential nutrients, this high-protein spinach stir-fry is as delicious as it is healthy!
Start by pressing the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and place a heavy object, like a skillet, on top for 10–15 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into small cubes.
Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add the tofu to the skillet and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red chili flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and stir to coat them in the aromatics. Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes to heat through.
Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan in batches, stirring frequently as it wilts. Once all the spinach is added and wilted, return the crispy tofu to the pan.
Drizzle the mixture with coconut aminos (or gluten-free soy sauce) and stir well to combine. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Season the stir fry with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Serve hot as a standalone dish or alongside steamed rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
Calories |
710 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.9 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1337 mg | 58% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.7 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.5 g | 73% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.1 g | ||
| Protein | 48.3 g | 97% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1748 mg | 134% | |
| Iron | 18.7 mg | 104% | |
| Potassium | 832 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.