Grilled Tofu with Cucumber
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite go to meals when I want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Grilled tofu with cucumber comes together in just 45 minutes and costs very little to make. The tofu gets wonderfully charred on the grill while soaking up a punchy ginger and garlic marinade, and the cool, crisp cucumber salad provides the perfect contrast. Tofu is packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, making it such a smart choice for keeping you full and energized. It's a dish that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 2 blocks (14 oz each)extra-firm tofu(pressed and cut into 1-inch thick slabs)
- 2english cucumber(spiralized or cut into thin ribbons)
- 3 tablespoonssoy sauce
- 1 tablespoonfresh ginger(minced)
- 2 tablespoonsrice vinegar
- 2 tablespoonssesame oil
- 1 tablespoonhoney
- 2garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsolive oil(for cooking)
- 3 tablespoonssesame seeds(white and black mixed)
- 2green onions(thinly sliced)
- 1lime(cut into wedges)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Wrap pressed tofu blocks in paper towels and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut each block into 8 slabs about 1 inch thick.
Tip: Pressing tofu ensures it gets crispy when cooked rather than steaming.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced ginger, and garlic to create the glaze.
Tip: Prepare the glaze while the tofu is pressing to save time.
- 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Tip: Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for best results.
- 4
Working in batches, carefully place tofu slabs in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Tip: Don't flip too early—let each side develop a golden crust before turning.
- 5
Pour the prepared glaze over the cooked tofu in the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the glaze caramelizes slightly.
Tip: The sauce will thicken and coat the tofu beautifully if you let it reduce slightly.
- 6
Arrange cucumber ribbons on a serving platter and top with the glazed tofu.
Tip: You can serve this warm or at room temperature depending on preference.
- 7
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tip: The fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors just before eating.
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