Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing salad combining golden pan-fried tofu cubes with peppery watercress and a nutty sesame dressing for a light yet satisfying vegetarian dish. This asian fusion-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes blends grams firm tofu, grams watercress, sesame oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Asian Fusion cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain 250 grams firm tofu and cut into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towel.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Rinse 100 grams watercress and dry thoroughly. Chop 2 spring onions diagonally.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey until combined.
  5. Step 5: Toss the watercress, spring onions, and tofu cubes in a large bowl with the sesame dressing.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crisped Tofu and Watercress Salad with Sesame Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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