If you are craving a dish that brings together bold flavors and irresistible textures, look no further than this Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat balanced by fresh, vibrant greens, this recipe transforms humble tofu into crunchy, spicy bites that pair beautifully with the creamy tanginess of Caesar salad. Whether you’re a dedicated tofu fan or just want to try something exciting and plant-based, this dish offers a delightful fusion that’s sure to impress at any meal.

Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients is all it takes to create this stunning Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad. Each component plays a key role—from the tofu’s firm texture providing the perfect base, to the flavorful coating that crisps up just right, and finally the fresh salad greens that brighten every bite.

16 ounce package of firm or extra firm tofu: The star of the dish, providing hearty texture and protein.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps create that essential crispy crust on the tofu when cooked.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami flavor to the tofu.
1 tablespoon avocado oil: A healthy oil with a high smoke point, perfect for cooking tofu crisp.
1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that complements the buffalo sauce.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle pungent flavor that rounds out the spices.
3 tablespoons butter: Used to mellow and enrich the hot sauce for coating.
1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank’s red hot recommended): The heart of buffalo flavor delivering tangy heat.
Salad of choice: Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing works great—especially an avocado kale Caesar salad for a fresh twist.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad

Step 1: Prep the Tofu

Start by draining your tofu to remove any excess water—this step is crucial to achieving a crispy texture. Wrap your block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and gently press to squeeze out moisture. This won’t take more than a minute but makes a huge difference.

Step 2: Season and Coat

Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and toss them with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure each chunk is evenly coated so the flavors fully develop and the cornstarch forms a crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Arrange the tofu in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 8 minutes. Then give them a good shake or stir to ensure even cooking. Continue air frying for another 5 to 6 minutes until the tofu is golden and delightfully crunchy. If you don’t have an air fryer, baking at 425°F on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, will work too.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the tofu crisps up, melt the butter and whisk it together with the hot sauce to create the iconic buffalo sauce. The butter balances the heat and adds richness that clings beautifully to the tofu chunks.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Once crispy, toss the tofu in the buffalo sauce until completely coated. Now your Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad is ready to be served—either tossed on top of your salad, nestled inside a wrap, or enjoyed straight from the bowl with your favorite dipping sauce!

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and light freshness. A few shreds of vegan or regular Parmesan cheese also elevate that classic Caesar vibe perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy garlic bread or soft pita wedges that can scoop up every last bit of buffalo sauce. Roasted sweet potato fries also make a sweet, mellow counterbalance to the spicy tofu.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the crispy buffalo tofu atop a bed of kale Caesar salad with creamy dressing drizzled generously over. You can also layer it into a grain bowl with quinoa and avocado or wrap it in a large lettuce leaf for a fresh, handheld bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover crispy buffalo tofu separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain the best texture and flavor. Keep your salad components chilled but separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked buffalo tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer bag. Frozen tofu bites keep well for up to 2 months and reheat crisply from frozen.

Reheating

For the crispiest results when reheating tofu, avoid the microwave if possible. Instead, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crunchy again. Re-toss in any leftover buffalo sauce before serving if desired.

FAQs

Can I use soft tofu instead of firm tofu?

Firm or extra firm tofu is best for this recipe because it holds its shape and crisps up nicely. Soft tofu is too delicate and won’t provide the satisfying texture you want in crispy buffalo tofu.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake your tofu in a preheated oven at 425°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flip halfway through baking for even crispening. It will still be delicious, just takes a little longer.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for vegan margarine or a high-quality coconut oil to keep it plant-based without compromising on flavor.

What kind of hot sauce is best?

Frank’s Red Hot is a classic choice that balances heat and tang perfectly for buffalo sauce. However, feel free to adjust the type and amount of hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure to use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for seasoning, and confirm your hot sauce and salad dressings are gluten-free certified.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly addictive about Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad that makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. From the satisfying crunch to the fiery buffalo sauce and the refreshing salad balance, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

Crispy Buffalo Tofu with Caesar Salad Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 24 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Crispy Buffalo Tofu recipe delivers a flavorful, spicy twist on traditional buffalo wings using firm tofu. Perfect as a protein-packed topping for salads or a tasty snack, the tofu is coated in cornstarch and spices, air-fried until golden and crispy, then tossed in a rich buffalo sauce made from butter and hot sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu and Coating

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

Buffalo Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)

Serving Suggestion

Salad with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressing (such as avocado kale Caesar salad)

Instructions

Drain and Press Tofu: Remove the tofu from its packaging and drain the water. Wrap it in a clean dish towel or several paper towels and gently squeeze out excess moisture to help the tofu crisp up better. This should take less than a minute.
Prepare Tofu Pieces: Pull the tofu into bite-sized chunks. In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, avocado oil, paprika, and garlic powder until fully coated with the seasoning mixture.
Air Fry the Tofu: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Place the coated tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, shake or gently toss the tofu, then air fry for an additional 5-6 minutes until the tofu is golden brown and crispy. (Alternatively, you can bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.)
Make Buffalo Sauce and Toss: While the tofu cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Whisk in the hot sauce to create the buffalo sauce. When tofu is crispy, toss the pieces in the buffalo sauce until thoroughly coated.
Serve: Enjoy the crispy buffalo tofu as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce or use it as a spicy protein topping for salads, wraps, or bowls. It pairs wonderfully with Caesar, ranch, or bleu cheese dressings, especially in an avocado kale Caesar salad.

Notes

Pressing the tofu is essential to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness.
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
Air frying yields a crispier texture compared to baking, but baking is a good alternative if you don’t have an air fryer.
Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of hot sauce or using a milder sauce.
To store leftovers, keep the buffalo tofu separate from the sauce to maintain crispiness and re-toast before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Salad Topping
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American