Tahini Pesto Tofu Salad
Crispy tofu tossed with a bright tahini–basil pesto, served over a crunchy salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, herbs, and greens.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook (tofu): 10–15 minutes
Total: 20–25 minutes
INGREDIENTS
1. Crispy Tofu
1 block firm or extra-firm tofu
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
2. Tahini Pesto Dressing
(Creamy + herby + Mediterranean)
¼ cup tahini
1 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp olive oil
2–3 tbsp lemon juice
2 cloves garlic
2 tbsp water (to thin)
1 tbsp pine nuts OR walnuts
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
3. Salad Base
2 cups lettuce or mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ avocado, sliced
Fresh parsley or basil for topping
Optional: 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds or toasted almonds
INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1 — Prepare the Tofu
1. Press tofu for 10 minutes to remove moisture.
2. Cut into cubes.
3. Toss with olive oil, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder.
4. Cook using any method:
A. Pan-Fry (easiest)
Add tofu to a hot pan and fry 8–10 minutes until golden.
B. Air Fryer
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes, shake halfway.
C. Oven
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping once
STEP 2 — Make the Tahini Pesto
Blend or whisk together:
- tahini
- basil
- olive oil
- lemon juice
- garlic
- pine nuts/walnuts
- water
- salt
- chili flakes (optional)
Blend until smooth, creamy, bright green.
Add water if too thick.
STEP 3 — Build the Salad
1. Add greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and avocado to a large bowl.
2. Toss lightly with 1–2 tbsp of the tahini pesto.
STEP 4 — Add Crispy Tofu
1. Add tofu on top of the salad.
2. Drizzle with more tahini pesto.
3. Garnish with herbs and seeds.
TIPS
Add quinoa or farro for a filling meal.
Add roasted chickpeas for extra crunch.
For a lighter pesto: replace tahini with Greek yogurt (not vegan).
Add roasted sweet potato for a warm bowl version.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Can I meal prep it?
Yes — keep dressing and tofu separate until serving.
Can I replace tofu?
Yes — use chicken breast, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Can I make the pesto spicier?
Add ½ tsp chili paste or extra chili flakes
Nutrition information
Calories: 390–450
Protein: 20–24g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 6g