Tofu & Shrimp Salad Recipe with Balsamic Dressing
This refreshing and vibrant Tofu & Shrimp Salad with Balsamic Dressing combines the lightness of fresh vegetables with the protein-packed goodness of shrimp and tofu. The salad is bursting with flavors from crisp lettuce, crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, earthy beetroot, and tangy red radishes. Tossed together with a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s an ideal dish for a light dinner or a protein-rich side to complement any meal. Perfectly balanced and packed with nutrients, this salad is also an excellent option for anyone following a high-protein, non-vegetarian diet.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimps | 250 grams |
| Tofu | 100 grams |
| Iceberg Lettuce (shredded) | 1/2 cup |
| Cabbage (Patta Gobi/ Muttaikose, shredded) | 1/2 cup |
| Carrots (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Beetroot (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Red Baby Radish (sliced to roundels) | 1/2 cup |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (sliced) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Mint Leaves | 6 leaves |
| Roasted Peanuts (crushed) | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Asian
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Start by thoroughly cleaning and washing the shrimp. Once cleaned, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sautรฉ until they are golden and fully cooked, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Cut the tofu into small cubes and grill them on a stove-top grill or in a non-stick pan. Grill until the cubes turn lightly golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Set the grilled tofu aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the cooked shrimp with balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, crushed black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss well to ensure the shrimp is coated in the marinade and let it sit for a few minutes.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded iceberg lettuce, cabbage, grated carrots, grated beetroot, sliced red baby radish, and yellow bell pepper. Add chopped green chilli to bring a slight kick to the salad. Season the vegetables with salt, crushed black pepper, red chili flakes, and lemon juice. Toss everything together using a spatula or your hands until evenly combined.
Step 5: Add the seasoned shrimp to the vegetable mixture. Gently toss again to combine, ensuring that the shrimp are well distributed throughout the salad.
Step 6: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can add a little more lemon juice. Then, add the sugar and roasted peanuts to the salad. Mix again to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Step 7: To finish, garnish the salad with fresh chopped coriander and mint leaves for an added burst of freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the light yet flavorful tofu and shrimp salad.
Step 8: For a complete meal, serve this tofu & shrimp salad alongside a hearty dish like Mexican Salsa Chicken with Italian Cream Cheese to elevate your dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
- High in Protein: This salad combines shrimp and tofu, two excellent sources of protein, making it perfect for those looking to maintain or build muscle while enjoying a light, nutrient-packed meal.
- Refreshing and Flavorful: With a combination of crunchy vegetables and a tangy balsamic dressing, every bite is bursting with freshness and flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables depending on whatโs in season or to your personal preference. You can also add other protein sources like grilled chicken or tempeh if desired.
- Quick and Easy: With only 25 minutes of preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy lunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | ~20 grams |
| Fiber | ~4 grams |
| Fat | ~12 grams |
| Sodium | ~600 mg |
| Cholesterol | ~120 mg |
This tofu and shrimp salad is a deliciously balanced option that is low in carbs but high in protein, making it a great choice for anyone following a high-protein, low-carb diet. The variety of vegetables also provides a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
Tip: For an extra creamy texture, you can add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving. This adds a nice tang and creaminess that pairs perfectly with the crunch of the salad.
Enjoy this nutrient-packed, high-protein tofu and shrimp salad with balsamic dressingโyour new go-to light yet satisfying dinner option!
