Sesame Cucumber Tofu Salad
Crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors, this Sesame Cucumber Tofu Salad is the perfect combination of health and indulgence. Featuring tender, golden-brown cubes of pan-fried tofu, crunchy cucumber slices, and a tangy soy-sesame dressing infused with a touch of garlic and honey (or maple syrup for a vegan twist), this vibrant salad is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds and optional fresh cilantro, it’s an ideal dish for a light lunch, savory side, or make-ahead meal. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this quick and easy salad is a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or casual gatherings. Savor the fresh ingredients and irresistible umami notes in every bite of this Sesame Cucumber Tofu Salad.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 medium-sized cucumber
- 2 stalks green onions
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons, chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Press the tofu to remove excess moisture by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and placing a heavy object on top for about 10 minutes.
While the tofu is pressing, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons if they’re larger. Place them in a large mixing bowl and toss with 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Let sit for 10 minutes to release excess water, then drain and pat dry.
Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pan-fry the tofu cubes for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping to cook all sides evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), and finely minced garlic to make the dressing.
Add the cucumbers, tofu, chopped green onions, and optional cilantro to the mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss to combine.
Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds for garnish and serve immediately. Alternatively, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy your Sesame Cucumber Tofu Salad as a light main dish or a flavorful side!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
213 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.5 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g | 9% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 550 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.7 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.0 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.5 g | ||
| Protein | 16.8 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 374 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 3.2 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 327 mg | 7% | |
*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.
