Szechuan Tofu Salad

Szechuan Tofu Salad is a vibrant and spicy dish that combines crispy tofu with a refreshing mix of vegetables, all tossed in a zesty Szechuan dressing. Perfect for a late-night snack, this vegan salad is packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu - 250 grams
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Cucumber - 1 medium, diced
• Carrot - 1 medium, julienned
• Green onions - 2, chopped
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Sesame seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Szechuan peppercorns - 1 teaspoon, toasted and ground
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Chili oil - 1 tablespoon
• Maple syrup - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Salt - to taste

Steps

1. Press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess moisture for about 15 minutes.
2. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and fry the tofu cubes until golden and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
4. While the tofu is cooking, prepare the salad dressing by whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground Szechuan peppercorns, and salt in a bowl.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced red bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, green onions, and cilantro.
6. Once the tofu is cooked, add it to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, making sure everything is coated.
8. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 20 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from tofu, promoting muscle health.
• Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.

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