🌿 Palmini Rice with Maple-Sesame Tofu

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 β€” a naturally gluten-free, high-fiber vegetable. Their products include rice, linguine, lasagna sheets, and even mashed β€œpotatoes” β€” all perfect for light, plant-based meals that don’t sacrifice texture or flavor. Bonus: You can get their products for 20% off using my code: KELLYSGREENKITCHEN20. The rice is light yet still satisfying β€” 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.

πŸ“ 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:

  • Β½ 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

πŸ”ͺ Instructions

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

  2. SautΓ© 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!

πŸ’‘ Tips & Substitutions

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

  • Swap the veggies for whatever you have β€” 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 β€” 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!

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