Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad

There’s something magical about a dish that’s light yet packed with bold flavors – this Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad hits all the right notes—it’s tangy, spicy, sweet, and savory, all in one satisfying bowl. Perfect for a quick lunch, meal prep, or even as a side dish for a larger feast, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce
  • Rich in umami flavour
  • Versatile seasoning for asian dishes as well as all kinds of everyday dishes, try in marinades, dressings, dips and sauces
  • Use in place of salt for a deeper, balanced taste
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • High-Protein: Thanks to the tofu, this salad is a great plant-based protein option.
  • Customisable: Use any noodles or veggies you have on hand.

Tips and Variations for spicy tofu noodle salad:

  • Noodles: Swap rice noodles for soba, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, edamame or Vietnamese pickles for extra crunch and color.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes or chili oil to suit your heat tolerance.
  • Protein: Not a tofu fan? Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or tempeh instead.

Other lunchbox ideas you should try!

This Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad is the kind of recipe that’ll make its way into your regular rotation. It’s bright, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or packing it for the week ahead, it’s guaranteed to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Let me know how you customize it in the comments below!

LKK Lee Kum Kee Premium Sauce Cooking Set
  • Package Includes: LKK Premium Light Soy Sauce 500ml, Premium Dark Soy Sauce 500ml and Premium Oyster Sauce 510g
  • Ideal for stir-fries, marinating, and elevating everyday dishes.
  • Offering a true taste of Hong Kong without added preservatives or MSG
  • LKK sauce selection is a kitchen essential for great Asian flavour lovers
  • Elevates the taste of home cooked meals


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Spicy tofu noodle salad in a silver lunchbox on red background.

Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad

Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad is a flavorful, high-protein dish perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or as a side. It features pan-fried tofu coated in a soy-honey-chili glaze, tossed with rice noodles, fresh veggies, and a tangy, spicy soy-vinegar sauce. This versatile recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and easily customisable to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Condiments, Dinner, Dipping Sauce, Dressing, lunch, Main Course, Meal Prep, Salad, Salad Dressing, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian, Vietnamese
Servings 2

Ingredients
  

Tofu

  • 1 block (300g) firm tofu, gentle press to squeeze the water
  • 3 tbsp soy
  • 2 tbsp honey maple syrup (vegan option)
  • 1 tsp chilli (optional)
  • neutral oil for frying

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp soy
  • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp fresh chilli, minced, dry chilli flakes or chilli oil can be used as substitutes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Salad and condiments

  • rice vermicelli noodles, cooked and cooled
  • lettuce, spinach, cucumber, herbs, such as Vietnamese coriander, mint, coriander
  • crushed peanuts, crispy shallots,
  • pickled carrots and daikon
  • spring onion oil, oil and spring onion (microwave for 30 seconds)

Instructions
 

Prepare the tofu

  • In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Set aside.
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the tofu cubes. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
    Pour the soy-honey-chili mixture over the tofu and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chilli, garlic, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the salad

  • Combine the cooked noodles, your chosen salad and condiments, and pour the sauce over the salad and toss well to coat. See notes for further tips!

Notes

Notes: 
For meal prep: If you are preparing this for your lunchbox or upcoming weeknight dinners, ensure you keep the salad fresh by packing it in a freezer bag or a separate compartment in your lunchbox. Pack your dressing in an airtight container. You can reheat your tofu for 1-2 minutes in the microwave.
This Spicy Tofu Noodle Salad is the kind of recipe that’ll make its way into your regular rotation. It’s bright, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable—a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Let me know how you customize it in the comments below!
Keyword 20 Minute Meals, Easy recipes, Healthy recipes, High protein, Lunch Ideas, Lunchbox, Vegetarian

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