Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu
This Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu is a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The tofu is pan-fried until golden brown, giving it a slightly crispy exterior and a tender interior. The noodles are cooked according to package directions and then combined with the tofu, shredded carrots, chopped red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. A simple dressing made with soy sauce and rice vinegar is whisked together and poured over the salad. The salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for later.
This recipe was inspired by a dish that I had at a local Vietnamese restaurant. I loved the combination of flavors and textures in the salad, and I knew that I had to recreate it at home. After some experimentation, I came up with this recipe, which is a close approximation of the original dish. I've made a few modifications to the original recipe to make it easier to prepare at home, but the overall flavor profile is the same.
Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu Asian Noodle Salad with Tofu
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 block extra-firm tofu
  • 1 package (8 ounces) ramen noodles
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions
  1. Press the tofu between two heavy objects for 15 minutes to remove excess water.
  2. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and pan-fry until golden brown on all sides.
  3. Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions.
  4. Combine the noodles, tofu, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro in a large bowl.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and rice vinegar.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Why It Works
  • The tofu is pan-fried until golden brown, which gives it a slightly crispy exterior and a tender interior.
  • The noodles are cooked according to package directions, which ensures that they are cooked through but still have a slight chew to them.
  • The vegetables are fresh and crisp, and they add a nice crunch to the salad.
  • The dressing is simple but flavorful, and it brings all of the ingredients together.