🌿 Tofu Basil Rice (with Palmini!)

A light, herby dinner that’s vegan, low-carb, and loaded with flavor.

I’ve officially found my new weeknight obsession: crispy tofu, stir-fried veggies, and a zesty basil sauce over Palmini rice. Palmini makes low-carb pasta and rice alternatives from hearts of palm — a naturally gluten-free, high-fiber vegetable. Their products include rice, linguine, lasagna sheets, and even mashed “potatoes” — all perfect for light, plant-based meals that don’t sacrifice texture or flavor. The rice is light yet still satisfying — and when paired with golden tofu and this garlicky basil sauce, it’s an absolute winner.

This recipe is gluten-free, packed with plant-based protein, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Let’s get into it.

📝 Ingredients

For the tofu:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed

• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil)

• Pinch of sea salt

For the stir-fry base:

• 1 can Palmini rice, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup mixed veggies (I used carrot ribbons + bell pepper)

• 1 green onion, chopped

For the basil sauce:

• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tbsp lime juice or rice vinegar

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

🔪 Instructions

1. Crisp the tofu:
   Toss cubed tofu with sesame oil and sea salt. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until golden and crisp, shaking halfway through. (You can also pan-fry or bake.)

2. Sauté the veggies + rice:
   In a large skillet, warm a drizzle of oil. Add your veggies and cook for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in the Palmini rice and green onion. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.

3. Make the sauce:
   Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.

4. Bring it together:
   Pour the sauce over the stir-fried rice and veggies. Toss to coat. Top with crispy tofu.

5. Serve:
   Garnish with extra basil or sesame seeds. Enjoy warm!

💡 Tips & Substitutions

• No Palmini? Sub cooked jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.

• Swap the veggies for whatever you have — snow peas, zucchini, or broccoli work great.

• Add crushed peanuts or chili crisp for extra flair.

This dish checks all the boxes: fresh, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you're new to tofu or a longtime fan, this is one of those meals that feels light but filling — and comes together with minimal fuss. I hope you love it as much as I do!

🌱 Tag @kellysgreenkitchen_ if you make this and let me know how it turned out!