Miso-Marinated Tofu Salad with Sesame Dressing

Tiffany Manners

This Miso-Marinated Tofu Salad is a vibrant, umami-rich dish inspired by Japanese flavors. The tofu is gently marinated in a miso-based sauce, ensuring every bite is infused with deep, savory notes. A crisp, refreshing salad complements the tofu, while a nutty sesame dressing ties everything together. Light yet satisfying, this dish is perfect for a nutritious meal.

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Prep Time 40

Cook Time 15

Total Time 55

Course Salad

Cuisine East / Southeast Asian

Servings bowls

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking tray
Oven
Knife
Cutting board
Small Saucepan

Ingredients

For the Miso Marinade:

2 tbsp white miso paste use high-quality miso for the best depth of flavor
1 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium if preferred
1 tbsp mirin adds subtle sweetness
1 tsp sesame oil toasted sesame oil for rich flavor
1 block firm tofu around 200g, pressed to remove excess moisture

For the Sesame Dressing:

2 tbsp tahini smooth and rich for creamy texture
1 tbsp rice vinegar balances the richness
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
1 tbsp water to adjust consistency
1 tsp grated ginger freshly grated for an aromatic kick

For the Salad:

2 cups mixed greens arugula, baby spinach, or mizuna
½ cup carrot julienned or shredded
½ cup cucumber thinly sliced
1 tbsp sesame seeds toasted for extra nuttiness

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu: Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into thick slices or cubes.
Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil until well combined.
Marinate the Tofu: Coat the tofu with the miso marinade and let it rest for at least 20 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Bake the Tofu: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the marinated tofu on a lined baking tray and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and slightly caramelized.
Make the Sesame Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), water, and grated ginger until smooth.
Assemble the Salad: Arrange the mixed greens, julienned carrots, and sliced cucumber in a bowl. Place the baked tofu on top.
Finish and Serve: Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, chill the marinated tofu overnight before baking.
You can also pan-fry the tofu for a crispier texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 26gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 1769mgPotassium: 454mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 11787IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 346mgIron: 5mg

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