Tofu Noodle Salad is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, tender tofu, and savoury noodles tossed in a zesty dressing. It is perfect for a light and healthy meal, packed with flavours and textures to satisfy and energize you. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is an excellent choice for any occasion.
About the Recipe
Tofu Noodle Salad combines the best of Asian-inspired flavours in one refreshing dish. This salad is tasty and nutritious, with crisp capsicum, sweet carrots, and protein-rich tofu. The dressing, made with lime peel, rice wine vinegar, and a hint of red chilli, adds a tangy kick that perfectly complements the ingredients. This versatile recipe can be customized to suit different tastes, making it a favourite for many.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Tofu Noodle Salad for its fresh, vibrant flavours and versatility. It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tender tofu, and savoury noodles, all combined with a zesty dressing, creates a satisfying and light dish. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying a delicious meal.
Cooking Tips
Press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking for the best results. This helps the tofu absorb more flavour and achieve a better texture. Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavour, adding a delicious crunch to the salad. You can also customize the salad by adding your favourite vegetables or using a different type of noodle.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This Tofu Noodle Salad serves 2-3 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Serve it fresh for the best taste, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If storing, keep the dressing separate and add it before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Tofu Noodle Salad
Ingredients
- 1 Capsicum (chopped, seeds removed)
- 1 Carrot (peeled, sliced or finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste
- 125 g Plain tofu (cubed)
- 125 g Plain Noodles (cooked as per packet instructions)
- 3 tsp Dark Soy Sauce
- Spring Onions (handful, sliced)
- Coriander Leaves (handful, chopped)
- 1 tsp Sesame Seeds (toasted)
- Oil (as required)
For the Dressing:
- 1 Lime Peel
- 1/3 cup Rice Wine Vinegar
- 1 Red Chili (chopped)
- 1 tsp Sugar
Instructions
- Mix all the dressing ingredients in a pan.
- Place it over medium flame and bring to a boil.
- Set aside for 10 minutes, then transfer to a bowl.
- Heat a little oil in a pan over medium flame.
- Sauté the capsicum and carrots for a minute.
- Add ginger garlic paste and stir-fry for a minute.
- Remove and transfer to a large bowl.
- Add more oil to the pan and cook the tofu for a minute.
- Add the reserved vegetables back to the pan.
- Add the cooked noodles.
- Add soy sauce, spring onions, and dressing, then mix well.
- Garnish with coriander leaves and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I press tofu properly?
To press tofu:
- Wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel and place it on a flat surface.
- Put a heavy object on top, like a cast-iron skillet or a stack of books.
- Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to remove excess water.
This step is essential to achieve a firmer texture and allow the tofu to absorb more flavours during cooking. Pressing tofu is especially important in recipes like Tofu Noodle Salad, where the tofu needs to hold its shape and texture.
Can I use a different type of noodle for this salad?
Absolutely! You can use any noodle you prefer for this Tofu Noodle Salad. Rice noodles, soba noodles, or even whole wheat noodles work well. The key is to cook the noodles according to the package instructions and rinse them with cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Different noodles can add a unique texture and flavour to the salad, making it even more enjoyable.
What can I add to this salad to make it more filling?
Add protein sources like grilled chicken, shrimp, or edamame to make the tofu noodle salad more filling. You can also incorporate more vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or snap peas. Adding a handful of nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, can provide extra crunch and nutrition. Customizing the salad with your favourite ingredients ensures it meets your dietary needs and preferences.
How long can I store this salad in the refrigerator?
Tofu Noodle Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and add it before serving for the best taste and texture. This helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables and prevents the noodles from becoming soggy. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy the salad’s fresh flavours even if prepared beforehand.
Is Tofu Noodle Salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Tofu Noodle Salad can be made gluten-free with gluten-free noodles and soy sauce. Check the labels to ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Many supermarkets offer gluten-free alternatives for noodles and sauces. This simple adjustment makes the salad accessible to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, allowing everyone to enjoy its delicious flavours.
