Healthy Dinner Broccoli Tofu Skillet

Name: Healthy Dinner Broccoli Tofu Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and pepper to taste; Spring onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Inspiration

When it comes to quick and healthy dinners, my go-to is this delightful Broccoli Tofu Skillet. I love how vibrant and colorful this dish turns out, and the combination of sautéed broccoli with crispy tofu is simply irresistible. It’s not just nutritious but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet light. This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes and packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Let me share how I create this simple yet delicious dish in my kitchen.

Created by

Jacqueline Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:26:35.895Z

In my quest to make dinner both nutritious and enjoyable, I stumbled upon this delightful combination of tofu and broccoli. The trick is to let the tofu get a slightly golden crust, which adds a wonderful texture to the dish. Adding a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil at the end elevates the flavors beautifully, making each bite something to remember.

I often experiment with the vegetables I have on hand, and this dish allows for plenty of substitutions. For instance, adding bell peppers or carrots not only increases the nutritional value, but it also brings a burst of color. Each time I make this skillet, it feels like a new creation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners easy.
Packed with nutrients from broccoli and tofu.
Versatile and adaptable to whatever veggies you have.
Deliciously seasoned for a satisfying, flavorful meal.

      

Mastering Tofu Texture

To achieve the perfect crispy texture, pressing the tofu is key. It is essential to remove as much moisture as possible; I typically let it press for at least 15 minutes. Using firm tofu instead of soft or silken will also help maintain its structure during cooking. After pressing, cut the tofu into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. The cornstarch coating not only gives it a delightful crunch but also helps the tofu absorb the flavors from the soy sauce.

When sautéing the tofu, it's important to give it enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning. I heat the skillet on medium-high heat before adding the tofu, which aids in achieving those golden edges. Flip the cubes only when they’re deep golden to avoid sticking. This step can take about 8-10 minutes; don’t rush it for the best results.

Flavorful Broccoli Preparation

Broccoli is not just a vibrant color; it's packed with nutrients that enhance the dish's health factor. When stir-frying, I recommend choosing bright green florets - they should be fresh and firm. To achieve that ideal tender-crisp texture, cook the broccoli on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it's ready when the florets are vibrant and slightly tender but still have a bite to them. This not only preserves nutritional value but also contributes to a great contrast against the moist tofu.

Incorporating garlic and ginger early in the cooking process is crucial for layering flavors. They release their aromatic oils quickly, infusing the oil with a fragrant base. Sauté them until they’re just golden and fragrant, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Adding them with the broccoli allows their flavors to meld without overpowering the dish.

Serving and Storing

Once your Broccoli Tofu Skillet is ready, plating it neatly enhances the meal's appeal. I like to serve it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for added texture and substance. Drizzling a bit of extra soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can elevate the presentation further. Feel free to increase the quantity if hosting guests; this recipe doubles easily without changing the cooking times significantly.

Should you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating in a pan over medium heat helps maintain the tofu's texture. While you can microwave it, I find that it can make the tofu lose its delicious crispiness. If you freeze it, consider that the texture of the tofu may change upon thawing; it's best enjoyed fresh.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious skillet:

Ingredients

1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and pepper to taste
Spring onions for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Broccoli Tofu Skillet:

Prepare the Tofu

Begin by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Toss the cubes in cornstarch to achieve a crispy texture when cooked.

Sauté Tofu

In a hot skillet, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Carefully place the tofu cubes in the skillet, cooking until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu and set aside.

Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about a minute, then add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant and tender.

Combine and Season

Return the crispy tofu to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the tofu and broccoli are well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Once combined, transfer the skillet contents to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped spring onions and serve hot.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious dinner!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with other vegetables you have in the fridge. Peppers or snap peas can also be great additions to the skillet!

Ingredient Variations

This Broccoli Tofu Skillet is highly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can all replace or complement the broccoli, adding their unique flavors and textures. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as some vegetables may cook faster or slower than broccoli. For a twist, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or chili flakes for an extra kick.

For a protein alternative, chickpeas or tempeh work wonderfully. They can be prepared in a similar fashion by pressing and crisping them up in the skillet. If you’re looking for a low-carb version, replace the tofu with a variety of mushrooms, which will absorb the soy sauce beautifully and provide a savory umami experience.

Cooking Tips

Pay attention to the order of operations when preparing your Broccoli Tofu Skillet. Each component needs specific cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly cooked. Always start with the tofu to give it time to crisp up while you prepare the vegetables. This way, everything can be combined and heated through without compromising the textures.

Experimenting with seasonings can also elevate this dish. Adding a splash of hoisin sauce or a teaspoon of sesame seeds can introduce a complex layer of flavor. I also like to finish with a squeeze of lime juice before serving; it brightens up the entire dish and enhances its freshness. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute tofu with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use chickpeas or tempeh if you prefer.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add in any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.