Creamy and Savory Tofu Spinach Salad Recipe
Nutritious Tofu Spinach Salad: An Easy Recipe for Beginners
Introducing our ‘Tofu Spinach Salad,’ a delightful combination of fresh spinach and silky smooth tofu that creates a fantastic harmony. It’s wonderfully savory with a delicate texture, and easy enough for anyone to make with simple ingredients, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. This healthy dish, rich in nutrients and enjoyable for the whole family, is a must-try!
Essential Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh spinach
- 1/2 block soft tofu
- A little scallion, finely chopped
- 1-2 Tbsp tuna extract (for umami)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the fresh spinach. Thoroughly wash the spinach under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pay close attention to the root area, as dirt can often get trapped there.
Step 2
In a pot, add plenty of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Boiling water with salt helps the spinach retain its vibrant green color and brings the water to a boil slightly faster. It’s a useful tip!
Step 3
While the water is heating up, let’s prepare the tofu. Gently press the tofu to remove excess water using paper towels. Removing moisture is key to ensuring the dressing adheres well and prevents the salad from becoming watery. Next, place the tofu in a zip-top bag and mash it with your hands. It’s best to leave some small chunks for a pleasant texture, rather than mashing it completely smooth.
Step 4
Once the water is boiling rapidly, add the washed spinach and blanch it for just about 30 seconds. Spinach can become mushy and lose nutrients if overcooked, so a quick blanch is essential!
Step 5
Immediately after blanching, transfer the spinach to a bowl of cold water to rinse lightly. This helps maintain the spinach’s crisp texture. After rinsing, squeeze out as much water as possible with both hands, then transfer the spinach to the bowl with the mashed tofu.
Step 6
Now it’s time to mix everything together deliciously! To the bowl with the spinach and tofu, add the finely chopped scallions, 1-2 tablespoons of tuna extract for that savory depth, 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil for nutty aroma. Gently toss everything together until the seasoning is evenly distributed. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top will make it even more appealing!
