Name: Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounce package of firm or extra firm tofu; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot); Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (suggested: avocado kale Caesar salad)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving a meal that masterfully combines crunchy texture, bold flavors, and fresh greens, you’re in for a treat with this Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe. Imagine perfectly crispy tofu chunks, cloaked in a spicy buffalo sauce, nestled atop a vibrant Caesar salad — creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky all at once. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based protein with a punch of flavor that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding two or just treating yourself, this dish quickly becomes a go-to for satisfying, healthy lunches or light dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A set of ingredients is arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center bottom is a large square block of tofu on a brown piece of paper. Around it are small white bowls and clear glass bowls holding different ingredients: a red powder in a flower-shaped bowl at the top left, an orange powder in a similar bowl below it, a pale yellow liquid in a small white bowl at the top center, bright green sliced scallions in a small glass bowl top right, a bowl of red sauce below the pale liquid, a bowl of white powder to the right of the red sauce, a small glass bowl with salt and pepper mix below the white powder, and a glass bowl with three pieces of butter at the bottom right. Everything is neat, bright, and well lit. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role, enhancing the final dish’s taste, texture, and color. Every component is easy to find and adds something special, from the silky tofu that crisps up beautifully to the zesty buffalo sauce that wakes up your palate.

16 ounce package of tofu (firm or extra firm): The star ingredient that crisps beautifully when cooked right.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Creates a crispy coating for that irresistible crunch.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds depth and umami, boosting the tofu’s flavor.
1 tablespoon avocado oil: Perfect for frying with a neutral taste and high smoke point.
1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses a mild smokiness and color to the tofu.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a fragrant background note that complements buffalo sauce.
3 tablespoons butter: Richness to balance the spicy buffalo heat.
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot): Classic buffalo flavor with tangy and spicy kick.
Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing: A crisp, creamy bed that contrasts the spicy tofu; avocado kale Caesar salad is a personal favorite pairing.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tofu

Start by carefully draining your tofu. Remove it from the packaging and wrap it gently in a clean dish towel or paper towels. Press it lightly to squeeze out excess moisture—this step is quick but so important because it ensures your tofu gets crisp when cooked instead of soggy.

Step 2: Cut and Season

Next, break the tofu into bite-sized pieces, perfect for snacking or topping your salad. Toss these pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder—this mixture forms a flavorful, crispy crust once cooked.

Step 3: Cook for Crispy Perfection

Transfer the coated tofu to an air fryer set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 8 minutes, then give it a good shake or toss to ensure even crisping. Continue for another 5 to 6 minutes until the tofu is golden brown and irresistibly crunchy. If you don’t have an air fryer, baking works well too—just bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit and flip halfway through for the best texture.

Step 4: Coat in Buffalo Sauce

While the tofu is crisping, melt butter in a small bowl and whisk it together with your hot sauce to create that iconic buffalo sauce. Once the tofu comes out crispy, toss the chunks in this sauce so every bite has that delicious spicy coating.

Step 5: Combine with Your Salad

Finally, pile the crispy buffalo tofu on top of your Caesar salad, or any favorite leafy greens dressed with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing. The creamy salad cools and balances the spice, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a dish that has two main layers. The bottom layer is dark green kale with a slightly crispy texture, mixed with some yellowish bits, likely cheese or seasoning. On top of the kale, there are many pieces of golden-brown, crispy chicken that look slightly sauced, giving them a shiny, textured look. There is a light-colored drizzle over the chicken, possibly a creamy dressing. A woman's hand is holding a silver spoon on the right side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a fresh twist by sprinkling chopped green onions, toasted pumpkin seeds, or even crispy fried shallots over the top. A drizzle of extra dressing or a few crumbles of vegan parmesan can also elevate the experience and add layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crunchy garlic bread, grilled corn on the cob, or simply a slice of hearty multigrain bread. For lighter sides, try roasted sweet potatoes or a tangy cucumber salad to complement the buffalo heat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the tofu and salad in a large tortilla wrap or over a bed of warm quinoa or rice. Layering it into a bowl with avocado slices and pickled red onions adds color and texture, making it perfect for meal prep or a casual get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover crispy buffalo tofu and salad components separate in airtight containers. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain the tofu’s crispy texture when you’re ready to eat the next day.

Freezing

The tofu can be frozen once cooked and coated in sauce. Place pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag, so they don’t clump. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat tofu in the air fryer or a hot skillet to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will make the tofu soft. For the salad, always add dressing fresh to keep it crisp and fresh-tasting.

FAQs

Can I use regular oil instead of avocado oil?

Absolutely! Any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, works well for frying and crisping the tofu without overpowering flavors.

Is this Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe suitable for vegans?

You can easily make it vegan by substituting butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and using a vegan-friendly Caesar or ranch dressing.

Can I bake the tofu instead of air frying?

Yes, baking works wonderfully. Arrange the tofu on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy—usually about 20-25 minutes.

What can I substitute for the hot sauce?

If you want less heat or can’t find Frank’s RedHot, try milder hot sauces or blend chili flakes with a bit of vinegar for a homemade buffalo-style sauce.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

Keep your salad and crispy tofu separate until serving. Toss the salad with dressing just before adding the buffalo tofu on top to maintain freshness and crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s bursting with flavor, surprising in its simplicity, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a tofu lover or experimenting with plant-based meals, this dish brings bold spice, crispy texture, and fresh greens together in the most delightful way. Give it a try — I promise it will become a staple you can’t stop craving!