An amazing light and satisfying vegan salad with slices of cucumber, shallot, radish and avocado on a bed of kale with crisp cubes of tofu and drizzled with sesame ginger dressing....ready in just 20 minutes!
Take tofu block from package and set onto a clean dish towel that's been folded in half.. Fold it over to envelope the tofu and place something heavy over it. A cast iron skillet or a few books will work well.
Sesame Ginger Dressing
Use a microplane and grate the fresh ginger and garlic.
Whisk tahini, tamari, toasted sesame oil, vinegar, and maple syrup together until a smooth, even consistency emerges. Now add the garlic and ginger and mix again. Alternately, place everything in a jar, cover tightly and shake vigorously until fully incorporated.
Prep Veggies for Salad
Thinly slice cucumber, shallot, and radishes. Stack kale and then slice into thin strips.
Make Tofu
Set drained tofu onto a cutting board. Slice into three slabs. Turn on its side and then do the same. Continue until the entire block has become 1-inch cubes. Separate the pieces and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Heat cast iron or your heaviest skillet over medium heat. Swirl in the tablespoon olive oil and place the cubes of tofu in a single layer, seasoning side down.Now sprinkle the exposed side of tofu with salt and pepper.
Cook for about 2 minutes until it's just starting to turn golden and it naturally releases. Turn to another side. Cook again for 2 minutes. Continue until all sides are golden brown.
Compose Salad
Disperse kale onto a serving dish. Artfully arrange slices of veggies all around. Top with warm tofu and drizzle on the dressing. Use a bowl if you'd like to toss it, otherwise make a display of it onto a platter.