Japanese salad with asparagus and tofu

Japanese Salad with Asparagus and Tofu

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5-8 minutes
Total time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 2-3 servings

Who doesn't love a quick and delicious dish that brings a touch of freshness to the plate? The Japanese salad with asparagus and tofu is not only an excellent choice for vegans but also a perfect option for those who wish to fast or simply enjoy a healthy meal. This simple recipe is full of flavors and textures, and its ingredients are easily accessible, so let's get started!

The history of this salad is linked to Japanese culinary traditions, where fresh ingredients are combined with delicate sauces to create dishes that are easy to savor. Asparagus, a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, brings a subtle taste and a crunchy texture, while tofu contributes a significant protein intake and a soft consistency.

Necessary ingredients:

- 200-250 g fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- Zest of half a lemon
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 100 g tofu (preferably firm tofu)
- 1 green onion (or regular onion if you don’t have)
- Sesame seeds for decoration (optional)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the asparagus well under cold water. Cut off the woody ends (about 2-3 cm) and then cut the asparagus into 5-6 cm pieces at an angle to give it an elegant shape.

2. Boiling the asparagus:
In a large pot, add a liter of water and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Bring the water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the asparagus and boil for 5-8 minutes. If you want to keep the asparagus tips crunchy, boil for just 3 minutes, then remove from the water and let them drain well.

3. Preparing the dressing:
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients for the dressing: 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, the zest of half a lemon, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

4. Adding the tofu:
Cut the tofu into cubes of about 1.5 cm. Add the tofu cubes and the finely chopped green onion to the bowl with the dressing and gently mix, being careful not to crush the tofu. Let the mixture marinate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

5. Finalizing the salad:
After the asparagus has drained, add it to the bowl with the tofu and dressing. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. If you prefer a more flavorful salad, you can let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes.

6. Serving:
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the salad for an elegant look and added texture. You can serve the salad as a main dish or as a side to other dishes. It is delicious both cold and at room temperature.

Useful tips:

- If you can’t find firm tofu, you can use soft tofu, but be careful to handle it gently.
- You can also add other crunchy vegetables, such as carrots or red bell peppers, for more color and nutrients.
- A splash of olive oil can replace sesame oil if you prefer a less intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but fresh asparagus offers a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with avocado, cucumbers, or even nuts to add a crunchy touch.

3. Is this salad healthy?
Absolutely! Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and tofu provides valuable protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

4. What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or sushi, but can also be enjoyed alongside a warm miso soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Asparagus is known for its diuretic properties, helping to detoxify the body, while tofu provides the necessary plant proteins to maintain muscle mass.

Personal note:
For a touch of originality, you can add a few fresh mint or basil leaves for a surprising flavor. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. It can easily become the star of your meal!

Enjoy your meal and savor every bite of this Japanese salad with asparagus and tofu!