Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach

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

Crisp pan-fried tofu cubes tossed in a savory garlic-sesame glaze served over wilted spinach for a nutrient-packed vegetarian entrée. This asian-inspired vegan (gluten free) ready in about 25 minutes pairs sesame oil, soy sauce, finely minced garlic cloves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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: 15 min Serves 3 Asian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz firm tofu cubes and cook, turning occasionally, for about 8 minutes until all sides are golden and crisp. Remove tofu and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Lower heat to medium, add remaining 1 tbsp sesame oil and 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp honey, cooking for 2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
  4. Step 4: Return tofu to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the garlic-sesame glaze. Cook for 1 more minute until heated through.
  5. Step 5: In a separate large pan, add 1 tbsp water and 6 cups fresh spinach. Sauté over medium heat for 2 minutes until just wilted, seasoning with 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  6. Step 6: Plate the wilted spinach and top with the glazed tofu. Garnish with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 sliced green onions before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep sesame oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach?

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 Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Pan-Fried Tofu with Garlic-Sesame Glaze and Spinach vegan?

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

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