Stir-Fried Tofu with Gel-Infused Cooling Vegetables

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-15 · Updated 2026-05-15

A refreshing stir-fry featuring crisp tofu and vegetables known for their cooling properties, perfect for a light vegan meal. This Asian-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 30 minutes, pairs extra-firm tofu, cucumber, zucchini 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.

Ingredients

• 14 oz block, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes extra-firm tofu
• 1 large, sliced into half-moons cucumber
• 1 medium, sliced into thin half-moons zucchini
• 1 medium, julienned green bell pepper
• 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp agave syrup
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 sliced thinly green onions

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 14 oz cubed extra-firm tofu and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and slightly crisp.
2. Step 2: Add 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pan, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Toss in 1 large sliced cucumber, 1 medium sliced zucchini, and 1 julienned green bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Step 4: Stir together 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp agave syrup in a small bowl, then pour over the tofu and vegetables. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds and 2 thinly sliced green onions before serving.