Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and packed with plant-based goodness? Look no further than this delightful Spaghetti with Garlicky Tofu Sauce! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that combines the heartiness of spaghetti with the savory richness of tofu, all enhanced by the aromatic allure of garlic. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing and leave you craving more. Dive into this quick and easy Asian-inspired dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Drain the block of firm tofu and press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add tofu cubes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they develop a light golden color and start to crisp at the edges.
- Pour soy sauce over the tofu and garlic, stirring to coat evenly. If using, sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tofu and garlic sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately while hot. Optional: Add an extra drizzle of sesame oil for enhanced flavor.
Tips
- Press Your Tofu: For the best texture, make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture. This helps it crisp up nicely when cooked.
- Use High Heat: Sauté the garlic over medium-high heat to bring out its flavor without burning it. Keep an eye on it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly if overcooked.
- Customize the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a dash of chili oil for an extra kick!
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Adding a splash of it to your sauce can help create a silky texture that clings beautifully to the spaghetti.
- Garnish Generously: Enhance the dish with a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil right before serving. This adds freshness and an extra layer of flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. You can also swap out the spaghetti for your favorite pasta variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
