Looking for a refreshing and flavorful dish to add to your repertoire of Vietnamese-inspired recipes? Look no further than this delightful Vietnamese Lemongrass Tofu Salad. Bursting with zesty lemongrass flavors and crunchy textures, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish. Tofu, known for its versatility and ability to absorb flavors, takes center stage in this recipe, creating a satisfying and healthy dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
**Ingredients:**
– 14 oz block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
– 2 stalks of lemongrass, white parts only, finely minced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red chili, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegan option)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mixed salad greens
– Fresh herbs (such as mint, cilantro, and Thai basil) for garnish
– Crushed peanuts for topping
– Lime wedges for serving
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, red chili, soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Add the cubed tofu and gently toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tofu and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a serving platter or bowl, arrange the mixed salad greens as the base. Top with the cooked lemongrass tofu.
4. Decoratively arrange the cucumber slices, julienned carrots, bell pepper slices, and cherry tomatoes around the tofu.
5. Garnish the salad with fresh herbs and crushed peanuts.
6. Serve the Vietnamese Lemongrass Tofu Salad with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad before eating.
This Vietnamese Lemongrass Tofu Salad is a lovely balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal. The aromatic lemongrass infused into the tofu provides a fragrant and citrusy note, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and color to the salad. Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite herbs and additional toppings for a personalized touch.
Enjoy the vibrant and refreshing flavors of this salad that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you are a tofu aficionado or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of healthy ingredients and bold flavors. Add this Vietnamese Lemongrass Tofu Salad to your menu rotation for a taste of Southeast Asia right in your own home.
