Barley Free Turmeric-Ginger Crispy Tofu Kale Salad
Golden, spiced tofu sitting on a bed of massaged kale and crunchy vegetables — this salad is the kind of meal that looks impressive but comes together with straightforward pantry staples. The tofu gets pressed, tossed in turmeric, ginger, and garlic powder, then pan-fried until every side is deeply golden and crisp, giving you that satisfying crunch in every bite. A creamy tahini-lemon dressing with fresh grated ginger and a touch of honey ties everything together with bright, warming flavor. Massaging the kale with the dressing is a small step that makes a big difference — the leaves soften just enough to become tender without losing their structure. Shredded purple cabbage, carrots, and pumpkin seeds add color, texture, and a little nuttiness that rounds out the whole bowl beautifully. Every ingredient here is naturally free of barley, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or swap anything out — just cook and enjoy. It's the kind of vibrant, feel-good salad that earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the tofu
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- 2–3 tbsp water
- ¼ tsp salt
For the salad
- 1 large bunch curly or lacinato kale (about 8 cups), stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup dry-roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Press the tofu: wrap the block in several layers of paper towels, set it on a cutting board, and place a heavy skillet on top for 10 minutes. Cut the pressed tofu into 3/4-inch cubes.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, toss the tofu cubes with the turmeric, ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.
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