Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado

There is something about a vibrant, colorful salad that feels instantly energizing, especially when it is packed with fresh, crisp vegetables, creamy avocados, and flavorful smoked tofu. This Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado is exactly that kind of dish. It is the perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and a burst of flavors, all tied together with a zesty sesame-ginger dressing. Whether you are planning a quick weekday lunch, a refreshing dinner, or even a side dish for a casual gathering, this salad fits the bill beautifully.

When I first made this salad, I was looking for something light but satisfying, something that felt indulgent without being heavy. I remember pulling out every colorful vegetable I could find from my fridge, combining them with some leftover smoked tofu, and tossing everything together with a quick homemade dressing. The result was magic. It quickly became one of those recipes that I keep coming back to, no matter the season.

This salad is special because it balances so many wonderful textures and flavors in one bowl. You get the crispness of fresh veggies, the creaminess of ripe California avocados, the deep smoky notes from the tofu, and the bright, tangy zing from the sesame-ginger dressing. Every bite feels like a celebration of freshness. Plus, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect even for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in under thirty minutes, and it tastes like something you would order from your favorite Asian-fusion restaurant.

What I also love about this salad is how customizable it is. You can easily swap out vegetables depending on what you have at home, and you can even change up the dressing to suit your mood. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe welcomes everyone. And, thanks to the hearty smoked tofu and healthy fats from the avocado, it is as filling as it is flavorful. So, let’s dive in and bring this colorful, nourishing salad to life in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why you will absolutely fall in love with this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep and no complicated cooking techniques, even beginner home cooks can master this recipe without stress. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and often already in your kitchen or easy to find at any local grocery store.

Another reason you will love this salad is its fantastic flavor profile. The smoked tofu brings a deep, savory richness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp sweetness of the bell peppers and the light, refreshing crunch of the snow peas. The creamy avocado slices add a luxurious mouthfeel, while the sesame-ginger dressing ties everything together with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and nutty notes. Each bite offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Moreover, this salad is a total crowd-pleaser. It is ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prep for the week ahead. Kids love the bright colors and sweet crunchy veggies, while adults appreciate the sophisticated flavors and satisfying heartiness from the tofu and avocado. It is one of those rare dishes that feels both light and indulgent at the same time.

In addition to its irresistible taste and easy preparation, this salad is highly customizable. You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce, or add some heat with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. Feel like switching it up? Toss in some edamame or swap out the snow peas for snap peas. The possibilities are endless, which means you can make it slightly different each time and never get bored.

Lastly, you will love how healthy this salad is. Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, healthy fats, and an array of vitamins and minerals, it truly is a nourishing powerhouse. Whether you are eating it as a light main course or a vibrant side dish, it supports your health goals without sacrificing flavor. Once you try it, I am sure it will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Health Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste and beautiful presentation, this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado offers a variety of impressive health benefits. Incorporating such nutrient-dense ingredients into your meals can have a significant positive impact on your overall well-being.

First of all, the array of fresh vegetables brings an abundance of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your plate. Carrots, for instance, are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that supports healthy vision and skin. Green cabbage adds a dose of vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and collagen production. Bell peppers, whether red or yellow, are also packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Furthermore, snow peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, promoting digestive health and helping to keep you full and satisfied. The scallions add a mild oniony flavor along with compounds that have been linked to improved heart health. Including a variety of colorful vegetables in your diet ensures you are getting a broad spectrum of phytonutrients that work together to support optimal health.

The smoked tofu in this salad provides a substantial amount of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. Tofu is also a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, essential minerals for energy production, bone health, and muscle function. Since the tofu is smoked, it also adds a layer of flavor without the need for additional heavy dressings or sauces.

Avocados contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also high in potassium, a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure. The creamy texture of avocado not only enhances the eating experience but also supports nutrient absorption from the other vegetables.

Finally, the homemade dressing made with sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar brings even more health benefits to the table. Sesame oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, while ginger and garlic are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Choosing to make your own dressing ensures you avoid added sugars and unhealthy oils often found in store-bought dressings.

Overall, every bite of this salad is packed with nourishing goodness, making it a smart and delicious choice for anyone looking to eat well and feel great.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the many reasons to love this salad is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy days when you still want to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal. Preparation time for this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado is approximately twenty minutes, with no additional cooking time needed beyond slicing and mixing. This means you can have a beautiful, satisfying meal on the table in less time than it would take to order takeout.

This recipe yields four generous servings, making it ideal for a family meal or for meal prepping your lunches for a few days. Each serving offers a balanced combination of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, providing the energy you need to power through your day.

When it comes to nutritional information, each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the exact amounts and brands of ingredients used. Here is a general breakdown per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 9g
Sugars: 7g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 480mg

These numbers make it clear that this salad is not only delicious but also a smart choice for maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet. It offers a great source of plant-based protein, an abundance of fiber to support digestion, and heart-healthy fats from avocado and sesame oil. Plus, it keeps the sodium content moderate, especially if you use low-sodium soy sauce.

So whether you are focusing on healthy eating, weight management, or simply looking for a satisfying plant-based meal, this salad checks all the right boxes.

Ingredients List

Before we jump into the step-by-step instructions, let’s go over what you will need to make this vibrant Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

For the Salad:

  • 3 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced: Carrots add a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness.
  • ¼ green cabbage, shredded: Provides a crisp, slightly peppery base for the salad.
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Sweet and vibrant, red bell peppers are packed with vitamin C.
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a mellow sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
  • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced: Gives a mild onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • 2 cups snow peas, thinly sliced: Fresh, crunchy, and slightly sweet, they enhance the texture.
  • ½ pound smoked tofu, thinly sliced: Brings a hearty, smoky flavor and a good dose of plant-based protein.
  • 2 California avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced: Creamy and rich, they add luxurious texture.
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Offers a bright, fresh flavor that ties the salad together.
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil: Adds an aromatic, slightly sweet herbal note.
For the Dressing:
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced: Brings a spicy warmth that enlivens the dressing.
  • 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds depth and a savory undertone.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Provides acidity and brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami richness.
  • 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty depth and silkiness.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Gives a bit of texture and visual appeal.

Additional Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons peanuts (per serving): Add crunch and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (per serving): Brings a cool, refreshing burst of flavor.

Having all your ingredients ready and prepped before you start assembling the salad will make the whole process seamless and enjoyable. Now that we have our beautiful lineup of ingredients, it’s time to get cooking.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, let’s walk through the process of bringing this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado to life. Trust me, it is as simple as it is satisfying, and with a few helpful tips along the way, you will feel like a pro in the kitchen.

First, you will want to make the dressing because giving it a few minutes to sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the minced fresh ginger and minced garlic. If you find that the ginger is a little stringy after mincing, you can give it an extra fine chop to ensure a smooth dressing. Then add in the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Whisk everything together vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified. The sesame oil will give it a luscious texture while the vinegar and soy sauce provide a bright, savory backbone. Set the dressing aside while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Next, it is time to prepare the salad vegetables. Grab a large mixing bowl — the biggest one you have, because it makes tossing much easier and less messy. Start by adding the thinly sliced carrots. I like to use a mandoline slicer for this task because it ensures uniform slices, but a sharp knife works just as well if you take your time. Follow with the shredded green cabbage. If you have a food processor with a shredding attachment, this step becomes even faster, but again, a sharp knife will do the trick.

After that, add the thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Their sweetness and crunch are essential to the overall flavor profile, so try to slice them as thinly as possible for the best texture. Then toss in the scallions. Use both the white and green parts for a more complex flavor, slicing them thinly at a sharp diagonal to create a more visually appealing presentation.

Continue by adding the snow peas. If you have never thinly sliced snow peas before, just stack a few together and slice them crosswise into thin strips. Their crispness brings a delightful snap to the salad that balances the softer elements.

Now, gently fold in the thinly sliced smoked tofu. Because smoked tofu is already cooked and firm, it holds up wonderfully in a salad without breaking apart, but still, you want to handle it gently to maintain nice slices throughout the salad.

Once all your vegetables and tofu are combined in the bowl, it’s time to introduce the dressing. Give the dressing one more quick whisk, then drizzle it over the salad. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss everything together. Make sure every piece is lightly coated in that flavorful, nutty dressing without drenching the salad.

After tossing, you can begin assembling the individual servings. Divide the salad evenly among four plates or bowls. This ensures everyone gets a beautiful array of colors and textures on their plate.

Next, take the sliced avocados and arrange half an avocado over each serving. I like to fan the slices out slightly for a pretty presentation, but simply layering them is perfectly fine too. The creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the crisp vegetables and smoky tofu.

Now for the finishing touches that take this salad to the next level. Sprinkle two tablespoons of peanuts over each plate, adding a satisfying crunch and a little extra protein. Then scatter a tablespoon of chopped fresh mint over the top. The mint offers a cooling contrast to the savory richness of the salad and brings a lovely pop of green color.

Finally, add a few extra leaves of cilantro and basil on top for an extra boost of freshness and a pop of aroma when the plates hit the table.

At this point, your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado is ready to serve. Ideally, you want to enjoy it right away while the vegetables are crisp, and the flavors are vibrant. However, if needed, you can refrigerate it for a short while before serving, although it is best to add the avocado and peanuts just before eating to maintain their texture.

As you can see, the process is incredibly straightforward, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. With every colorful layer and each vibrant bite, you are creating a meal that is as nourishing as it is beautiful.

Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad

How to Serve

Serving this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado can be just as fun and creative as making it. The beautiful thing about this salad is that it fits into so many different meal occasions, adapting easily to whatever you have planned.

First and foremost, you can serve it as a hearty main dish. Thanks to the protein-rich smoked tofu and the satisfying healthy fats from the avocado, it makes a filling meal all on its own. Simply portion it out into generous servings, perhaps adding an extra sprinkle of peanuts or a few more avocado slices if you want to bulk it up even more.

Alternatively, you can serve this salad as a vibrant side dish alongside a more substantial entrée. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken skewers, baked salmon, or even a simple bowl of jasmine rice. Its light, bright flavors help to balance out heavier dishes, making it a wonderful companion on the dinner table.

If you are planning a picnic or a potluck, this salad travels surprisingly well. Just keep the dressing, avocado, and peanuts separate until you are ready to serve. This way, everything stays crisp and fresh, and you can quickly assemble a show-stopping dish right before eating.

For a fancier presentation, consider serving the salad in wide, shallow bowls with the avocado slices artfully arranged on top. A light sprinkling of black sesame seeds or an extra drizzle of sesame oil can add a lovely finishing touch that makes the dish feel restaurant-worthy.

Another idea is to turn this salad into wraps. Pile a generous scoop onto a large lettuce leaf or a soft flatbread, add a few extra herbs, and roll it up for a handheld meal that is both fun and satisfying.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado is guaranteed to impress with its vibrant colors, irresistible textures, and bold, refreshing flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right pairings can elevate your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado into a truly memorable meal. Because this salad has such bright, fresh flavors with a slight smoky richness, it pairs beautifully with a range of dishes and beverages.

If you are looking for a protein boost, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken skewers marinated in a light soy-ginger glaze. The grilled flavor complements the smokiness of the tofu beautifully while adding a satisfying heartiness to your plate. For a pescatarian option, lightly grilled or baked salmon brushed with a sesame-miso glaze would also be an excellent choice.

On the side, you might want something warm and comforting to contrast with the cool, crisp salad. A small bowl of miso soup would be perfect. Its savory umami depth pairs wonderfully without overpowering the fresh vegetables.

When it comes to grains, simple is best. A side of fluffy jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa adds a grounding element to the meal and soaks up any extra dressing beautifully. You could also serve a small bowl of chilled soba noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil and scallions for an extra dose of deliciousness.

In terms of beverages, opt for something light and refreshing. An iced green tea or a sparkling water with a splash of citrus is a lovely choice. If you are serving adults and looking for a wine pairing, a crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a very light rosé would complement the flavors beautifully without overwhelming them.

Finally, for a special touch, consider offering a simple fruit platter for dessert. Fresh mango slices, pineapple, or a few lychees would continue the tropical, refreshing theme and leave everyone feeling satisfied and energized.

By thoughtfully pairing this salad with complementary dishes and drinks, you create a complete dining experience that is colorful, nourishing, and absolutely delightful.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and texture of your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado. Since this salad features delicate ingredients like avocado and a light homemade dressing, following a few simple storage guidelines will ensure you can enjoy any leftovers without compromising on quality.

First, if you know in advance that you will have leftovers, it is a smart idea to keep a portion of the dressing separate. Dressing the salad just before eating preserves the crispness of the vegetables and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. However, if the salad has already been tossed with dressing, it can still be stored — just expect a slightly softer texture when you enjoy it later.

To store leftover salad, transfer it into an airtight container. Ideally, use a container that allows the salad to sit in a single layer rather than being packed tightly, as this helps prevent the delicate avocado slices and tofu from becoming mushy. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly over the surface of the salad before sealing the lid; this minimizes air exposure and helps keep the avocado from browning. Stored this way, the salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

If you are meal-prepping in advance, store the undressed salad components separately from the avocado slices and dressing. Keep the avocado wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or brushed with a little lemon or lime juice to slow oxidation. The undressed vegetable and tofu mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

When it comes to freezing, this salad is not a good candidate. The high water content in the fresh vegetables means they do not freeze well; thawing would cause them to become limp and watery. Additionally, avocado does not retain its texture or flavor after freezing. Therefore, it is best to enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated within a short window.

Reheating is not necessary for this dish since it is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. However, if you have stored it in the fridge and want to enhance the flavors a little before serving, you can let it sit out at room temperature for about fifteen to twenty minutes. This helps the dressing’s flavors shine and brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

By following these simple storage tips, you can savor every last bite of your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado, whether you enjoy it immediately or the next day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple and straightforward recipe like this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado, there are a few common pitfalls that can impact the final result. Knowing what to watch out for can help you achieve salad perfection every time.

One of the most common mistakes is overdressing the salad. It can be tempting to pour all the dressing on at once, but a lighter hand is usually better. Start by adding half the dressing and tossing gently. Then taste and add more as needed. This ensures the vegetables stay crisp and you avoid a soggy texture.

Another mistake is slicing the vegetables too thickly. Thin, even slices create a better mouthfeel and allow the dressing to coat everything more evenly. Taking the time to slice the carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas thinly makes a huge difference in both texture and flavor distribution.

Choosing overripe or underripe avocados is another common issue. An overripe avocado will turn mushy quickly and can overpower the salad, while an underripe one will be hard and lacking in flavor. To select the perfect avocado, look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure but is not squishy.

Skipping the resting time for the dressing can also affect your salad. Allowing the dressing to sit for at least a few minutes after mixing lets the flavors meld and develop. If you dress the salad immediately after mixing the dressing, it might taste a bit sharp or unbalanced.

Finally, it is important not to neglect the final seasoning. Even though the dressing contains soy sauce and other flavorful elements, giving the salad a final check for seasoning before serving — perhaps with a tiny pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lime — can elevate the dish from good to absolutely phenomenal.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you set yourself up for success and ensure your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado will be as delicious and vibrant as possible.

Pro Tips

If you are looking to elevate your Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado even further, a few simple pro tips can make a world of difference. These little tricks and tweaks will help you create an even more memorable dish every time.

First, toast the peanuts before sprinkling them over the salad. A quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to every bite.

Second, use a mandoline slicer for your vegetables if you have one. A mandoline allows you to achieve super-thin, even slices quickly and safely, which not only improves the texture of the salad but also makes the final presentation look extra polished and professional.

Third, marinate the smoked tofu briefly in a little soy sauce and sesame oil before slicing if you want even deeper flavor. Even a quick fifteen-minute soak can infuse the tofu with extra savory notes that enhance the overall dish.

Fourth, consider adding a splash of citrus juice to the dressing or directly to the salad before serving. Fresh lime juice in particular brightens all the flavors and brings a lively zing that complements the richness of the avocado beautifully.

Fifth, experiment with different fresh herbs depending on your taste preferences. While cilantro, basil, and mint are the main suggestions here, you could also try Thai basil for a slightly spicier note or even a few sprigs of fresh dill for a more unique twist.

Lastly, always taste as you go. Every ingredient can vary slightly in flavor from one batch to another, especially with fresh produce, so adjusting your dressing or seasoning based on taste ensures the final result is perfectly balanced.

With these simple pro tips, you will not only master this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado but also impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share it with you.

Of course! Continuing smoothly and directly, here’s the next part of the full article, still following all your instructions:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When it comes to making the Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado, a few common questions often pop up. To help you feel completely confident before you start, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Can I use regular tofu instead of smoked tofu?
Yes, you can use regular firm or extra-firm tofu if you cannot find smoked tofu. However, to add a similar depth of flavor, consider marinating it briefly in a little soy sauce and a touch of smoked paprika before slicing. You could also lightly pan-fry the tofu to give it a bit of texture and a hint of smokiness.

How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
You can prep the vegetable and tofu mixture up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing, avocado, and toppings separate and assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

What can I substitute for peanuts if I have a nut allergy?
If you need to avoid nuts, toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make excellent alternatives. They provide that desired crunch and a slightly nutty flavor without triggering nut allergies.

Is this salad gluten-free?
As written, the salad can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for soy sauce and tofu, to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives.

How can I make this salad spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing or thinly slice a fresh red chili and toss it with the vegetables. You can also drizzle a little bit of sriracha sauce over the top before serving.

What is the best way to keep the avocado from browning?
If you need to prep the avocado slightly ahead of time, brush the slices with a little lemon or lime juice. This slows the oxidation process and keeps them looking fresh and green longer.

Can I add extra protein to this salad?
Absolutely. While the smoked tofu and peanuts provide a good amount of protein, you can add cooked edamame, grilled chicken breast strips, or even some sautéed shrimp if you want to boost the protein content further.

Is it necessary to use both cilantro and basil?
While the combination of cilantro and basil adds beautiful layers of flavor, you can use just one or substitute with other fresh herbs depending on your preference. Fresh mint, Thai basil, or even parsley would also work nicely.

How can I make the dressing creamier?
For a creamier dressing, you could whisk in a tablespoon of tahini or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt. Both additions give the dressing a richer texture while maintaining its vibrant flavors.

Can I use bottled ginger and garlic instead of fresh?
Fresh ginger and garlic offer the brightest, most vibrant flavor, but if you are in a pinch, bottled minced versions can work. Just be sure to adjust the quantities slightly, as bottled products often have a stronger or saltier taste.

Answering these frequently asked questions ensures you have all the information you need to create a perfect Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado every time. If any more questions come up while you cook, remember that part of the joy of home cooking is experimenting and finding what works best for you.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Bringing it all together, this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado truly embodies what a nourishing, delicious, and vibrant meal should be. It is packed with crisp, colorful vegetables, layered with smoky and savory tofu, brightened by fresh herbs, and brought to life with a zingy sesame-ginger dressing. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the satisfying crunch of peanuts to the creamy richness of avocado.

Not only is this salad a feast for the senses, but it is also incredibly good for you, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are preparing a quick weekday lunch, a special weekend dinner, or a colorful dish to impress at a gathering, this recipe adapts effortlessly to fit the occasion.

What makes this salad even more special is how flexible and customizable it is. By adjusting the vegetables, switching up the herbs, or tweaking the dressing to suit your mood, you can create endless variations that keep things exciting and fresh. It is truly a foundation for creativity in your kitchen, allowing you to play with flavors while sticking to wholesome, nourishing ingredients.

Now it’s your turn to bring this beautiful, nourishing dish into your own kitchen. Gather your crisp vegetables, your creamy avocados, and your rich smoked tofu, and whip up a salad that is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. I hope you love this Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado as much as I do, and I cannot wait to hear about your creations.

If you try this recipe, I would love for you to leave a comment and share how it turned out. Feel free to tag your beautiful salad creations on social media so we can all be inspired by your delicious versions. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!

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Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad

Fresh Asian-Inspired Salad with Smoked Tofu and Avocado


  • Author: Sophia Turner
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A colorful and refreshing Asian-style salad featuring crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, hearty smoked tofu, and a zesty sesame-ginger dressing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced

  • ¼ green cabbage, shredded

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced

  • 2 cups snow peas, thinly sliced

  • ½ pound smoked tofu, thinly sliced

  • 2 California avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced

  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
    Dressing:

  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    Additional Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons peanuts (per serving)

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (per serving)


Instructions

  • Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth. Set aside.

  • In a large bowl, toss carrots, cabbage, peppers, scallions, snow peas, and tofu.

  • Add dressing and toss to coat evenly.

  • Divide salad among plates.

  • Top with avocado slices, peanuts, cilantro, basil, and mint.

  • Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use tamari for a gluten-free version.

  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

  • Toast peanuts for extra flavor.

  • Prep veggies ahead and toss just before serving.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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