Description
The Crispy Tofu and Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, crunchy salad featuring crispy fried tofu, cool cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion, all tossed together in a flavorful homemade peanut dressing. This combination of textures and flavors offers a light yet filling meal, perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. The peanut dressing provides a rich and savory depth, while the tofu adds protein and crunch, making the salad not only delicious but also nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
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2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
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1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying tofu)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peanut Dressing:
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1/4 cup peanut butter (preferably natural, unsweetened)
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1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
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2-3 tbsp warm water (to thin the dressing to your desired consistency)
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Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tofu
The first step in creating this Crispy Tofu and Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing is to ensure your tofu is crispy. Pressing the tofu properly is key to achieving that satisfying crunch.
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Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
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Place a heavy object on top, such as a cast-iron skillet, and leave it for about 10-15 minutes to drain excess moisture.
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Once pressed, cut the tofu into small cubes.
Next, heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive or vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the tofu cubes and fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. Season the tofu with salt and pepper while frying. Once done, remove the tofu from the pan and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the tofu is frying, you can prepare the salad ingredients. Thinly slice the cucumbers, red bell pepper, and red onion. Combine these in a large mixing bowl, and add the fresh cilantro and sesame seeds (if using).
3. Make the Peanut Dressing
Now for the delicious peanut dressing that will bring everything together.
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In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
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Stir until smooth.
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Gradually add warm water, stirring continuously until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. You may need more or less depending on how thick you like it.
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Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, more honey for sweetness, or red pepper flakes for spice.
4. Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to put everything together! Add the crispy tofu to the salad bowl with the cucumbers, red bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the salad immediately, garnished with extra cilantro, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes if desired. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours if you prefer it chilled.
Notes
This salad is perfect for meal prep or a light, refreshing lunch. You can customize it by adding shredded carrots, edamame, or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. For extra crunch, toss in some crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds just before serving. The peanut dressing also works great as a dip or sauce for other dishes!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Crispy Tofu and Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing