August is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and what better way to enjoy the sunshine than with a refreshing and satisfying picnic dish? This Smoked Tofu Quinoa Salad combines protein-rich ingredients with fresh vegetables and a zesty basil tahini dressing for a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Made with Green Cuisine’s smoked tofu block, this salad brings a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the nutty quinoa and crisp vegetables. The combination of seeds and nuts adds a delightful crunch, while the homemade basil tahini dressing ties everything together with its creamy texture and bright flavor profile.
What makes this dish perfect for picnics is its portability and ability to taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Pack it in a container, grab a blanket, and head to your favorite outdoor spot for a meal that will energize your summer adventures without weighing you down.
Let’s gather the ingredients:
1/2 Block Smoked Tofu (grated)
1 Cup Quinoa (cooked and cooled)
Carrots (grated)
Tomatoes (diced)
Cucumber (diced)
Olives (chopped finely)
Pickled Jalapeños (chopped finely)
2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast (flakes)
1 Tbsp Pumpkin Seeds
1/2 Cup Walnuts
1 Tbsp Hemp Hearts
2 tsp Sesame Seeds
Basil Tahini Dressing (Blend together)
A bunch of Basil leaves
2 Limes (juiced)
1/2 a Jalapeño
1/2 tsp Salt
3 Tbsp Tahini
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1/4 Cup Water
Preparation:
- Cook a cup of quinoa and let it cool completely.
- To make the dressing, blend basil with lime juice, jalapeño and salt until everything is well pulverized.
- Add the tahini and blend again to make it fluffy and creamy.
- Transfer it to a big bowl and add water and olive oil to thin it out. Mix it well.
- Now add the quinoa and mix well until all the quinoa is coated in the dressing.
- Next add the seasonings and seeds, combine everything.
- Chop up the veggies and add them to the bowl. Mix well.
- Grate the smoked tofu block and add to the bowl as well.
- Finally add the pickles and olives.
- Combine everything well and keep chilled.
In conclusion, this Tofu Quinoa Salad isn’t just a delicious addition to your picnic basket—it’s also packed with exceptional health benefits. Tofu provides a complete plant-based protein source rich in iron, calcium, and isoflavones that support heart health and may help reduce cholesterol levels. Quinoa, often called a superfood, offers all nine essential amino acids, abundant fiber, and minerals like magnesium and phosphorus that support muscle function and bone health. Together, these powerhouse ingredients create a meal that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. We encourage you to try this versatile recipe—it’s perfect for meal prep, can be customized with seasonal vegetables, and will surely become a favorite in your plant-based recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this picnic-ready quinoa dish is an excellent place to start!