Thai-style Grilled Tofu Salad with Peanuts and Herbs
Thai-style grilled tofu salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine right to your table. Combining the nutty taste of grilled tofu with fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here's how to create this refreshing, healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- Optional: sliced red chili for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Tofu
Drain the tofu and press it to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into thick slices or cubes. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice. Marinate the tofu in this mixture for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Grilling the Tofu
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated tofu for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden and slightly crispy. Once grilled, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before slicing it into smaller pieces.
Step 3: Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Gently toss in the grilled tofu, fresh cilantro, and mint. If you like some heat, you can add sliced red chili at this point.
Step 4: Garnishing
Top the salad with chopped roasted peanuts for added crunch and flavor. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the salad for an extra kick of taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Thai-style grilled tofu salad can be served as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish. Pair it with jasmine rice or alongside other Thai dishes such as spring rolls or curry for a complete feast. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding sliced mango or pineapple to enhance the tropical flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad is not only bursting with flavors but also offers numerous health benefits. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, while the variety of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals. The healthy fats from peanuts and sesame contribute to heart health, making it a well-balanced dish.
Conclusion
Experience the delightful taste of Thai cuisine with this grilled tofu salad, which is packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether you're a tofu enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this dish will surely satisfy your cravings while keeping it healthy and nutritious.