Name: Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed); 2 tablespoons harissa paste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine); 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cucumber (sliced); 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced); 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or parsley (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper to taste

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There’s something truly special about transforming simple plant-powered ingredients into a dish that bursts with bold, inviting flavors. That’s exactly what you get with Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe. This vibrant salad combines marinated, oven-roasted tofu tossed in smoky, spicy harissa paste and creamy olive oil with crisp greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and zesty red onion. Finished with a lemony Dijon dressing and a shower of fresh herbs, it’s nourishing, crave-worthy, and satisfying enough for any meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a showstopping lunch, this salad will earn you glowing reviews and repeated requests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this salad shine, you don’t need a mile-long grocery list—just a handful of well-chosen, flavorful ingredients that marry perfectly together. Each one plays an important role, from the punchy harissa and bright lemon juice to the creamy tofu and colorful veggies.

Extra-firm tofu: Pressed and cubed, this soaks up the spicy harissa marinade and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
Harissa paste: This North African chili paste brings the smoky heat and an inviting depth of flavor—adjust to suit your spice level.
Olive oil: Used for both marinating the tofu and in the dressing, it lends richness and a silky texture.
Lemon juice: Adds tangy brightness throughout the salad and the dressing for ultra-fresh flavor.
Garlic powder: A savory backbone for the tofu—using powder means no need to mince!
Salt: Enhances and balances every component—don’t skip it.
Mixed greens: A blend like arugula, spinach, and romaine gives a variety of textures and flavors, forming a vibrant base.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweet juiciness pops against the spicy tofu and hearty greens.
Cucumber: Sliced for cool, refreshing crunch—essential for contrast.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for delicate zing and gorgeous color.
Feta cheese (optional): Brings creamy, salty dimension—use plant-based feta for a vegan option.
Fresh mint or parsley (optional): Chopped herbs infuse an extra layer of brightness and a pop of color.
For the dressing:
Olive oil: Provides a luscious base for the zesty dressing.
Lemon juice: Keeps things lively and balances the richness of the tofu.
Honey or maple syrup: Just a touch for sweetness, rounding out the citrus and heat.
Dijon mustard: For a gentle tang and lovely, creamy emulsion in the dressing.
Salt and black pepper: Classic finishing touch—season to taste.

How to Make Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Tofu

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), then line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Press your extra-firm tofu—this step removes excess moisture and helps the harissa marinade soak in fully, so the tofu becomes chewy and flavorful, not soggy. Cube the tofu and gently toss them in a bowl with harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Every piece should be well coated and glowing a deep, spicy red.

Step 2: Roast Until Crispy

Spread the marinated tofu cubes out in an even layer on your prepared baking sheet. Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once about halfway through. This allows the tofu to develop a delectable crispy crust and deep golden color while locking in all that harissa goodness. The smell is reason enough to hover by the oven while you wait!

Step 3: Mix Up the Lively Dressing

While the tofu bakes, assemble the salad dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until creamy and slightly thickened. Taste, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. The honey balances the spice of the harissa and makes the salad sing with a bright, cohesive flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Get your biggest salad bowl ready and add the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and paper-thin red onion. Drizzle over the freshly prepared dressing and toss gently, making sure every leaf gets a glossy coat.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the harissa tofu is irresistibly crisp, scatter it right on top of the freshly dressed salad. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty finish if you like, and don’t forget a generous handful of chopped fresh mint or parsley for herbal lift and color. Serve immediately—and enjoy every magical, mouthwatering forkful.

How to Serve Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Garnishes

You have endless options to finish this salad with both style and flavor. Try a shower of extra chopped herbs for brightness or a squeeze of lemon for even more zing. Toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower add irresistible crunch, and if you love heat, a final drizzle of harissa oil on top turns this into a stunning showpiece.

Side Dishes

Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe is a filling main event, but it’s also delicious alongside warm pita, fluffy couscous, tabbouleh, or a bowl of lentil soup. The salad’s smoky, spicy notes pair especially well with cooling cucumber yogurt or creamy hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic bowl and try serving the salad on a wide platter for dramatic effect, layering the ingredients for visual appeal. For meal prep, tuck portions into mason jars (dressing on the bottom, greens and tofu on top) for portable lunches. Or, stuff the spicy tofu and crunchy veg mix into pita bread or wraps for a playful handheld version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge—just keep the tofu and salad separate if you want to keep everything crisp. The tofu stays delightfully flavorful for up to four days, while the dressed greens are best enjoyed within a day or two for peak freshness.

Freezing

While you can certainly freeze the roasted harissa tofu (let it cool fully, then wrap or store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months), the salad greens and veggies don’t hold up well in the freezer. For best results, freeze tofu only and prep the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you’ve frozen or refrigerated the tofu, you can reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or simply give it a quick zap in the microwave. Re-crisping the tofu in the oven is my favorite—it revives the texture beautifully! Warm tofu can be tossed back with the salad for a cozy twist, or let it cool to room temp for a refreshing bite.

FAQs

Is harissa very spicy?

Harissa packs some heat, but its raciness depends on the brand or recipe you use. You’re always in control—start with less, taste, and add more for extra fire. For a milder salad, cut back on the harissa or mix it with extra olive oil to mellow the punch.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Skip the feta cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative for a totally plant-based dish. Swap honey in the dressing for maple syrup, and you’ve got a fully vegan Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe that loses none of its flavor or flair.

What other vegetables work well in this salad?

Feel free to personalize with what’s in season or lingering in your fridge—bell peppers, grated carrots, radishes, or snap peas would all fit right in. The beauty of the Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe is how flexible and adaptable it is to your tastes.

Can I grill the tofu instead of baking?

Totally! Grilling gives the tofu lovely charred edges and a slightly smoky flavor. Preheat your grill or grill pan, oil it well, and cook the marinated tofu cubes for a few minutes on each side until nicely marked and heated through.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It’s one of my top choices for lunch prep! Roast the tofu, chop the veggies, and store them separately in the fridge. Assembly is speedy—just toss everything together and you have a fresh, flavorful bowl, even a day or two after making it.

Final Thoughts

I’m so excited for you to try Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe for yourself. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple lunch into something remarkable, wakes up your taste buds, and earns a regular spot in your meal rotation. Grab your harissa and tofu, and treat yourself to this irresistible, vibrant salad soon!

Harissa Tofu Salad: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Harissa Tofu Salad is a delightful combination of crispy, flavorful harissa-spiced tofu served on a bed of fresh mixed greens with a zesty dressing. Packed with protein and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu:

1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
2 tablespoons harissa paste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 cucumber (sliced)
1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint or parsley (optional)

Dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Tofu: Toss tofu cubes with harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Roast on the baking sheet for 25–30 minutes until crispy.
Make Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Assemble Salad: Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat. Top with roasted tofu, feta cheese, and herbs.
Serve: Enjoy the salad immediately.