Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce
A quick vegetarian stir fry combining crispy tofu and crunchy snow peas tossed in a savory garlic and sesame sauce. This asian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed, snow peas, trimmed, vegetable 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 3, 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.
Ingredients
- 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 cups snow peas, trimmed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz pressed and cubed extra firm tofu, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until all sides are golden and crispy. Remove tofu and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and 4 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 2 cups trimmed snow peas and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp grated fresh ginger.
- Step 5: Return tofu to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats tofu and snow peas.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 sliced green onions before serving with steamed rice or noodles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce?
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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce?
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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce 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 Stir-Fried Tofu and Snow Peas with Garlic-Sesame Sauce 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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