This Crispy Sesame Tofu Salad with Miso Dressing is as fresh as you can get. It's packed with raw veggies, baked crispy sesame tofu, and roasted cashews- all with loads of Asian flair.
1/3cupwhole raw cashews - (can also buy pre-roasted to save time)
12ouncesspring mix lettuce - chopped
4small/Roma tomatoes - cut into small slices
3/4cupedamame, shelled - thawed if frozen
OIl-Free Miso Dressing: (makes about 1/2 cup dressing)
1tablespoonwhite/yellow miso
1/2teaspoonground ginger
1 tablespoonrice vinegar
1tablespoonlow-sodium tamari - (or soy sauce)
2tablespoonswater
2teaspoonsmaple syrup - (or agave nectar)
2tablespoonssweet chile sauce
1tablespoonpeanut butter - optional
Instructions
Make the Crispy Sesame Tofu. You can make this in advance and refrigerate for easier prep. Transfer to an airtight container and place in the fridge to cool. Otherwise, start baking the tofu and remove from heat when done.
Meanwhile, in a large dry skillet over medium heat, add the raw cashews. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cashews start to brown. Be careful not to burn. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate (you can skip this step if using roasted cashews).
Next, make the Miso Dressing: In a small bowl, add the miso, ginger, rice vinegar, tamari, water, maple syrup, sweet chile sauce and peanut butter. Stir with a whisk and set aside.
To arrange the salad, add the lettuce to individual plates. Next, add the tomato slices, edamame, cashews and the crispy sesame tofu. Serve with the miso dressing (about 2 tablespoons per salad).
It's recommended to serve this salad immediately. If preparing in advance, store the dressing, salad, and baked tofu separately in airtight containers in the fridge and combine before serving.
Notes
The Crispy Sesame Tofu takes about 45 minutes to make. You can prepare the rest of the salad and dressing while the tofu is baking. Or, make the Crispy Sesame Tofu in advance for easier prep.
It's recommended to chop the lettuce, which makes it easier to eat (and is less messy).
This salad also goes great with the addition of avocado slices, sprouts or sugar snap peas.