If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and wholesome meal, Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce is the perfect choice. Crispy golden tofu paired with creamy peanut sauce, tender soba noodles, and fresh spinach creates a balanced dish that’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy tofu without deep frying.
- Rich, creamy peanut sauce with a hint of spice.
- Ready with simple pantry ingredients.
- A satisfying plant-based meal packed with protein.
- Great for meal prep and easy leftovers.
- Perfect for family dinners or healthy lunches.
Ingredients
- 2 (12.3-ounce) packages extra-firm tofu, drained
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic, divided
- 2½ tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, divided
- 3 tablespoons natural smooth peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar or honey
- ¼ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 8 ounces soba noodles, cooked
- 5 ounces baby spinach
Instructions
- Pat the tofu dry using paper towels and cut into ¾-inch cubes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together canola oil, half of the grated garlic, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
- Pour one-third of the marinade into a shallow dish, then add the tofu. Pour the remaining marinade over the tofu and gently toss to coat. Let marinate for 45 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, agave nectar, remaining soy sauce, ginger, sriracha, sesame oil, and remaining garlic. Add 1–3 tablespoons hot water until smooth.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Coat each tofu cube evenly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- Arrange tofu in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket twice during cooking, until golden and crispy.
- Toss warm soba noodles with spinach and the prepared peanut sauce.
- Top the noodles with the crispy Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce and serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Press tofu well before marinating for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Add hot water gradually to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or crushed peanuts.
- Add shredded carrots, cucumbers, or edamame for extra vegetables.
Details
- Prep Time: 55 minutes (includes marinating)
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 13 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Course: Main Course
- Cooking Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Vegetarian, Dairy-Free (Vegan if made with agave nectar)
Notes
- Honey creates a richer sweetness, while agave keeps the recipe vegan.
- Almond butter or cashew butter can replace peanut butter.
- Rice noodles also work well if soba noodles aren’t available.
- Fresh lime wedges brighten every serving.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
FAQ
Can I make Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the tofu and sauce separately, then combine just before serving for the best texture.
How do I make tofu extra crispy?
Press the tofu thoroughly, coat evenly with cornstarch, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and certified gluten-free soba noodles.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you use agave nectar instead of honey.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and edamame all pair beautifully with this dish.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store tofu, noodles, and peanut sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked tofu for up to 2 months. Peanut sauce may thicken after thawing but can be loosened with warm water.
Reheating: Reheat tofu in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes. Warm noodles gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 12.3-ounce packages extra-firm tofu, drained
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic divided
- 2½ tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce divided
- 3 tablespoons natural smooth peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar or honey
- ¼ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ⅔ cup cornstarch
- 8 ounces soba noodles cooked
- 5 ounces baby spinach
Instructions
- Pat the tofu dry using paper towels and cut into ¾-inch cubes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together canola oil, half of the grated garlic, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
- Pour one-third of the marinade into a shallow dish, then add the tofu. Pour the remaining marinade over the tofu and gently toss to coat. Let marinate for 45 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, agave nectar, remaining soy sauce, ginger, sriracha, sesame oil, and remaining garlic. Add 1–3 tablespoons hot water until smooth.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Coat each tofu cube evenly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- Arrange tofu in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket twice during cooking, until golden and crispy.
- Toss warm soba noodles with spinach and the prepared peanut sauce.
- Top the noodles with the crispy Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- Honey creates a richer sweetness, while agave keeps the recipe vegan.
- Almond butter or cashew butter can replace peanut butter.
- Rice noodles also work well if soba noodles aren’t available.
- Fresh lime wedges brighten every serving.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Tofu with Peanut Sauce recipe delivers everything you want in a healthy homemade dinner—crispy tofu, creamy peanut sauce, fresh vegetables, and hearty soba noodles. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or planning lunches for the week, this delicious recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.