Whole Grain Salad with Miso Dressing

Whole Grain Salad with Miso Dressing

Serves 4
This salad can be served at room temperature or cold and makes a great entree or side dish to serve to a group or bring to lunch.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole grain of choice (farro used in these pictures)
  • 1 12-14 oz. package of firm or extra firm tofu
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 cup shelled edamame
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil such as canola or olive oil (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons reduced sodium tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 cups carrots (peeled and diced)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup miso (reduced sodium if possible)
  • 1/4 cup rice or white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup shallot (minced)

Directions

Step 1
Rinse the grains, then add to a saucepan with the amount of water in this chart: http://wholegrainscouncil.org/recipes/cooking-whole-grains. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for the time listed in the chart. When grains are tender, drain any excess water and fluff with a fork.
Step 2
Meanwhile, drain the tofu and place between two towels and gently squeeze to remove excess liquid. Cut into cubes. Heat a skillet over medium high heat, then add 2 teaspoons oil. Add tofu and cook until it gets crisp on most sides, stirring occasionally, about 7-8 minutes. Add tamari and cook for one more minute.
Step 3
Preheat oven to 400˚F. Toss carrots with 1 teaspoon oil then spread into an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until carrots are tender, stirring halfway.
Step 4
Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar and stir until well combined. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients and toss with the dressing. Garnish with sesame seeds. Serve at room temperature or cold.