How to Make Easy Tofu and Celery Salad
This Easy Tofu and Celery Salad is a refreshing dish, perfect for a quick lunch or side. It combines the crunchiness of celery with the soft texture of tofu, all enhanced with a tangy dressing.
If you’re looking for a light, nutritious, and quick meal, an easy tofu and celery salad is the perfect option. Combining the crisp freshness of celery with the protein-packed goodness of tofu, this salad is a simple yet satisfying choice for lunch or dinner. It’s refreshing, full of texture, and can be customized with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste.
The key to making this salad delicious lies in the quality of the tofu. Firm tofu works best as it holds its shape well and adds a hearty bite to the salad. To prepare the tofu, simply press it to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Pan-frying the tofu adds a crispy texture that enhances the salad’s overall crunch. However, you can also leave the tofu raw for a lighter option.
Celery is the star of the dish, providing a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the tofu. Thinly slice the celery to get the perfect bite-sized pieces, and add some fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for added flavor. You can also include thinly sliced red onions for a hint of sharpness or a handful of cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
For the dressing, a simple combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a dash of honey or agave works wonders. The soy sauce provides a salty, umami flavor, while the sesame oil adds depth, and the rice vinegar gives it a tangy kick. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a few chili flakes can add texture and spice, if desired.
This tofu and celery salad is perfect as a stand-alone meal, but it also works wonderfully as a side dish to accompany rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, healthy meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 200 grams firm tofu drained and cubed
- 2 stalks celery thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, sesame oil, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Add the cubed tofu and sliced celery to the bowl.
- Toss everything together gently until the tofu and celery are well coated with the dressing.
Nutrition
I tried this but I don’t think tofu belongs in salads. It’s too mushy for me. Celery is great though.
Simple and quick! I added some carrots for extra crunch and it made it even better! Will make again.
Glad to hear you enjoyed it! Carrots sound like a delicious addition! 🥕
This salad is super easy and delicious! I didn’t have sesame oil so I used olive oil and it still turned out great! 😋
I dunno, sounds a bit weird with olive oil. Isn’t sesame oil part of the whole flavor? 🤔
Glad to hear it turned out great! Olive oil is a good swap. 😄
Isn’t tofu like bad for hormones? Idk, I read that somewhere. Anyway, I passed on this.
I used to think that too, but tofu can actually be part of a balanced diet! It’s all about moderation.
So good!! wow easy!!
I don’t get why sesame oil is only 1 teaspoon—mine tasted super strong anyway. I’ll lower it next time because the celery flavor got kinda overpowered.
This is so fast I almost didn’t believe it would be filling. I served it with rice and it became a full meal. Would make again.
The tofu cubes just kinda soaked the dressing and got really soft. Still tasty though. Next time I’ll press the tofu a bit longer.
This salad is super easy and so tasty! I love the tofu addition, gives it a nice texture.
So simple yet so fresh! I added some nuts for crunch. Yum!
Nuts? That’s weird! Isn’t this supposed to be a healthy meal?
That sounds delish! I love adding nuts too. It gives such a nice texture!
This is so easy! I made it last night and loved it. Definitely a keeper!
Tofu? Really?! Not for me. I don’t know how people eat that stuff.
Easy recipe, I like it but how to make it spicy? Suggestions plz!
I don’t know, it looks too plain. Like, where’s the sweetness? I added a tiny bit of honey and it improved a lot.
Not bad for a light meal. The celery is a little too crunchy for my taste, but the dressing is solid. Would make again.
Totally get the crunchy celery thing—next time I’ll slice it thinner or give it a quick rinse (or 2 minutes in cold water) to soften it a bit. Glad you liked the dressing though!
This is good as a side, but I wish it had more seasoning. Like maybe a tiny bit of salt or something. Soy sauce helps, but still felt flat to me.
Tastes healthy but a bit boring. Wouldn’t do it again.
I get what you mean! Sometimes healthy recipes lack that kick. Maybe add some spicy dressing next time?
I dunno, is tofu really good? Never liked it but gave it a try, was okay I guess.
I get it! Tofu can be pretty bland if not cooked right. Maybe try marinating it longer next time?
Honestly, I think you just need to find the right recipe. This one seems easy and light, but tofu can be hit or miss.
yup
Really?! Just two ingredients?! I added carrots and forgot the lemon. Still tasty tho.
Glad to hear it was still tasty! Carrots sound like a great addition. 😊
Two ingredients? Seems too easy! Not sure if it’d taste good without the lemon. But hey, if you liked it…🤷♂️
I like that it’s quick, but my tofu kept breaking up when I tossed it. Still delicious though—next time I’ll cube a bit firmer.
salad too bland, me need more flavor, like spicy jacket potato 🤔
This was just OK. I’m not a big fan of tofu anyway. Maybe it’s just me.
I think tofu is great! It really soaks up flavors. Maybe it’s just the way you prepared it? Give it another shot!
Honestly, I get you. Tofu can be a bit weird. Have you tried it fried? Might change your mind!
Not sure about the taste. Maybe I added too much soy sauce? 😕
Takes too long to prepare. Tofu is a pain to deal with. Not for me.
Not bad, but I found the tofu needed more salt. Next time I’ll either increase soy sauce or add a tiny bit of extra pepper.
The lemon juice is doing WORK. I thought it would be too sour, but it’s actually nice. I ate it cold and it tasted even better.
Simple and quick! Perfect for lunch. I give it a thumbs up! 👍
So simple but super fresh! The lemon + sesame oil combo makes the tofu taste way less “plain.” Will make again.
Yes!! Lemon + sesame oil is such a good combo—makes it taste restaurant-level. Glad you liked it.
I tried it and honestly it came out a bit too tangy for me. Next time I’ll use a little less lemon juice and maybe add more pepper? Also mine soaked up the sauce way faster than I expected.
This was okay, but my tofu turned out a little rubbery. I think I didn’t drain it well enough—still ate it though.
So simple but really tasty! The lemon + sesame combo makes the tofu taste less bland. I added a pinch of garlic powder and it was perfect.
This salad is a game changer! Super easy and delicious. The tofu is so good with the dressing!
I don’t know about this. Tofu is kinda weird, and celery just makes it worse. But I guess you could try if you like that kinda stuff.
I don’t have sesame oil so I used olive oil… and now I regret it lol. Will try it again with sesame oil because I think that’s the whole point.
Not bad, but 2 stalks celery felt a little too much for my taste. I used one stalk and it was more balanced. Still refreshing though.
Tried this for lunch—liked the tangy dressing. Celery stayed crisp, which I love. Next time I’ll probably add some toasted sesame seeds for extra texture.
I tried grinding fresh black pepper but my grinder jammed, so I used pre-ground… it was fine. Not mind-blowing but pleasant.
This salad looks easy and healthy! I love tofu! 🥗
This tasted like a fancy cafeteria salad (in a good way). The dressing was the star. I used bottled lemon juice and it was still decent.
Celery is such an underrated salad base. The dressing clings to the tofu pretty well even with gentle tossing.
Super simple and honestly really refreshing. The lemon + sesame combo makes the tofu taste way less “blah.” I added a pinch of chili flakes and it was perfect.
Yes! I love that lemon + sesame trick—totally wakes up tofu. I’m trying your chili flakes next time 🔥
Ok but I used regular tofu (not firm) and it kinda fell apart… still tasty though. Maybe add less lemon juice? Or is it supposed to be more like a marinade?
Celery is kind of strong… like, it overpowered mine a bit. I might use half a stalk next time or add some cucumber.
Totally get that—celery can be punchy. I usually start with 1 stalk and taste the dressing before adding more.
I don’t really like sesame oil, so I subbed olive oil… and it wasn’t the same. Still edible, just not as good.
Yeah, I feel that—sesame oil has a distinct nutty flavor that olive oil doesn’t really mimic. Glad it stayed edible though!
meh. I followed it exactly and it tasted like soy sauce with celery. Maybe I should’ve used silken tofu? Not sure.
I was a bit skeptical about the combo, but it turned out surprisingly good. Will make again.
Okay… but can we eat it with rice? Like a bowl or something? Just a thought!
1 tablespoon soy sauce feels like a lot for only 200g tofu. I reduced it and it was way better. Flavor was balanced after that.
Totally agree—1 tbsp soy sauce can overwhelm a pretty mild tofu like that. Glad you adjusted and it worked out!
This is giving “healthy side dish,” but in a good way. I ate it with rice and it actually felt filling.
Totally agree—“healthy side dish” vibes, but it doesn’t feel sad or watery. Tofu + celery with that lemony sesame dressing is such a good combo.
I thought the combination of flavors was refreshing! Made it twice already this week.
Just a salad with tofu and celery? Where’s the excitement? Not for me.
Sounds boring, lol. Why not throw in some carrots or even some fruits? Mix it up a bit!
I get what you’re saying, but sometimes simplicity is best! Tofu can pack so much flavor if done right. Maybe try adding some nuts or spices?
So simple but actually tastes bright and fresh! The lemon + sesame combo is perfect. I used extra pepper and it didn’t hurt at all.
Not bad, but mine turned out a bit too tangy. Maybe my lemon was huge or I measured wrong. Next time I’ll start with less lemon juice.
Honestly I thought it would taste bland but WOW! The sauce really brings everything together.
I added a pinch of garlic powder and a little honey—turned out great. Still easy and the celery stays nice and crunchy.
Not gonna lie, I’m skeptical about lemon with sesame oil—sounds weird—but it actually worked. I ate it right after making it and the celery stayed crisp.
Okay that actually makes sense—lemon’s bright and sesame oil has that toasted depth. Glad the celery stayed crisp; that’s always the goal with salads like this.
Too easy lol but good. ✅
Tofu + celery sounds weird but wow—this is better than most salads I’ve tried. Sesame oil makes everything pop.
Not my favorite. The dressing was too tangy for me. I prefer sweeter flavors.
Salad is good but where’s the flavor? Adding garlic next time.
Totally agree! Garlic would really bring it to life!
I made it for lunch and it stayed good even after sitting in the fridge for a bit. Tofu held up nicely. Would add a pinch of salt next time though.
Glad it held up! A pinch of salt makes sense—soy sauce brand strength can vary a lot.
Too bland for my taste. I added some chili flakes and it was better.
Glad you found a fix! Sometimes just a little kick can make all the difference. 😄
I followed the recipe exactly and it came out pretty good. My celery slices were thicker so they weren’t as crisp, but flavor was solid.
Yummy! This is the first time I liked tofu. More please!
Easy and quick, but could use more flavor. I added garlic and it helped a lot.
This is one of those ‘easy’ things that’s actually easy and not disappointing. My picky kid ate it (he asked if it’s ‘salad soup’ lol).
I followed it exactly and it tasted kinda flat at first, but after resting 10 minutes in the fridge it improved a lot. Patience helps.
1/2 tsp pepper was honestly too much for me. Otherwise it was fine—just wish I’d checked my measuring spoons.
Totally get that—black pepper can hit way harder than expected. I usually start with 1/4 tsp and add more to taste.
Hmm I’m surprised. 1/2 tsp doesn’t seem like a lot? I think your measuring spoon might be off or the pepper was extra strong (like fresh ground). Mine was delicious though.
I wasn’t sure about the tofu but it actually turned out great. Who knew?!
Mmmm, love it! My wife is a chef and she approves. Highly recommend! 👍
That’s awesome! A chef’s approval must mean it’s really good. I’ll definitely give it a try! 🥗
Looks boring. Tofu and celery, really? Seems simple but not in a good way. 🤔
This salad is sooo good! I added some carrots for a crunch. Yum!
I added avocado and it was yum! Will make again.
I’m skeptical about tofu + celery, but honestly it surprised me. The dressing clings well. I’d make it again for meal prep.
Easy recipe, but I burned the sesame oil by accident (whoops). Still ate it and it was kinda harsh. Would recommend keeping an eye on the oil next time 😅
Yummy!!! So easy to make and healthy! Will definitely make it again.
My kids didn’t like it, but my husband ate it all! So mixed feelings 🤷♀️.
Not my thing. Tofu is too soft for me and I prefer crunchy things. Just sayin’!
Wait… is tofu supposed to be this chewy? I used silken tofu by accident. Recipe still worked-ish but texture was different.
I think chewy tofu is totally expected here—firm tofu holds its shape, especially once it soaks up the soy-lemon dressing. If you used silken, that makes sense that it turned out softer/odd.
Idk… celery with tofu sounds kinda weird. I tried it anyway and it was okay, but I think it needs garlic or something to make it less bland.
Not gonna lie, I’m skeptical because tofu salads usually taste like punishment. But this one is actually refreshing. Good job.
I dunno, something about this just doesn’t taste right to me. Sorry! 🙁
I tried it, and it’s okay but I’ve seen better tofu salads. Maybe needs more flavors? 🤔
Nah, I think it’s fine as it is. Sometimes simple is better!
I totally get that! Maybe some garlic or ginger could kick it up a notch?
I used extra pepper because why not, and it worked. Tofu soaked up the dressing fast. Will definitely repeat.
The lemon juice and soy combo is chef’s kiss. I ate it as a side with rice and it worked. Will repeat.
This was super easy to make! I loved it! Will definitely make it again.
Super simple and actually tastes fresh. I used a little extra lemon because I like it punchy, and it was great.
I followed the steps exactly and mine came out kind of watery. Maybe my tofu wasn’t as dry as it should’ve been? Flavor was decent.
Yeah, watery tofu usually means it didn’t get pressed/drained enough. I squeeze mine in a towel for a bit before cubing—then it still soaks up the lemon/soy but doesn’t turn to soup.
Could use more sauce for my taste—everything felt slightly dry after tossing. Maybe my tofu cubes were bigger than yours?
Hmm maybe you didn’t toss long enough? I feel like celery releases water after a minute or two, so it gets less dry. If your tofu was very firm and dry, that could be it too. Try adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice next time.
Totally get that! I’ve found that if the tofu cubes are larger or not as well drained, they soak up less dressing and the salad can feel drier. I usually double the lemon/soy a bit (or add 1–2 extra tsp soy sauce) just to loosen it up—might fix your batch.
OMG I loved this!!! So fresh and simple!!
But like, isn’t tofu kinda gross? I don’t get why people love it.
I agree! This salad is super refreshing! Perfect for summer!
I made this for lunch and it was gone in like 10 minutes. Tofu held up nicely even after sitting for a bit. Will repeat.
Meh. I followed it exactly and it felt kinda bland until I added salt. Also, 1 tbsp soy sauce seems low for my palate.
Celery + tofu sounds weird to me, but I guess it works. The dressing is the star. Kinda bland without more salt though.
I felt the same about celery + tofu, but the lemon/soy/sesame combo really makes it pop. I usually add a tiny pinch more salt at the end too.
Celery is too watery here, you need to cook the tofu first or it taste like wet sponge. Dressing good tho, i think. 1 tsp salt would fix it 😂
Simple but refreshing. I added some chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch! Yum!
Tofu is gross! Who eats that stuff? I will stick to meat. 😒
The tofu fell apart a little when I tossed it—maybe I cubed it too small. Flavor was decent though.
This was honestly the best “no-cook” thing I’ve made all week. My family even asked for seconds (rare!).
I followed it pretty much exactly, and it turned out good, but I think I’d add a little salt next time. Maybe my tofu was bland? Still a solid quick salad.
Meh. Celery is too strong and the lemon made it kinda sharp. I’d reduce lemon juice next time. Still, quick.
Try using like… half the lemon and more soy? Or even just a splash vinegar? Celery is strong, but lemon is supposed to balance. I made it and it was fine tho, maybe your lemon was super sour.
Yeah, that makes sense—celery can be pretty punchy. I’d definitely start with less lemon (or add it slowly) so it doesn’t go sharp. Also, giving it a quick chill helps mellow it out.
So easy. My kids even ate it, and they usually refuse tofu. I didn’t tell them it was tofu at first 😅
Wait… celery with tofu and only soy sauce + lemon? Sounds kinda weird but also like it could work. I might add a little garlic or sesame seeds though.
Haha that’s the best hack 😄 Sneaky tofu wins! I’m trying this on my picky eater.
The ratios feel good, but I think I would add a pinch of salt next time since my tofu was kinda bland. Otherwise great quick lunch.
Just made this—surprisingly tasty for how simple it is. The lemon + sesame oil combo is perfect and the celery stays nice and crisp.
Love hearing this! The lemon + sesame oil combo really does make it feel “fancier” than it is. Glad your celery stayed crisp 😄