Looking for a simple vegetarian dinner that’s packed with vegetables and bold flavor?

This green bean stir-fry with crispy tofu combines tender green beans, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce with lightly spicy harissa for an easy weeknight meal. Finished with golden pan-fried tofu and served over rice, it’s satisfying, protein-packed, and ready in about 30 minutes.

It’s the perfect recipe when you’re wondering what to cook with green beans beyond the usual side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in about 30 minutes
  • High in plant-based protein
  • A great way to use fresh green beans
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners
  • Naturally dairy-free
  • Easy to adjust the spice level

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and harissa creates a sauce that’s savory with just a gentle kick of heat.

The crispy tofu adds texture and protein, while the green beans stay vibrant and slightly crisp, making every bite fresh and satisfying.

Easy Variations

Customize this stir-fry with:

  • Broccoli
  • Sugar snap peas
  • Bell peppers
  • Mushrooms
  • Edamame
  • Cashews or roasted peanuts
  • Chili flakes for extra heat
  • A drizzle of sesame oil before serving

Meal Prep Tip

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep lunches.

Store the rice separately if possible, then reheat everything together in a skillet or microwave before serving.

More Easy Vegetarian Dinner Ideas

If you’re looking for more quick vegetarian dinners, you might also enjoy:

These recipes are perfect when you’re looking for simple meals that are full of vegetables and easy enough for busy weeknights.

A Flavorful Way to Enjoy Green Beans

Green beans deserve more than a place on the side of the plate.

This easy stir-fry transforms them into the star of the meal with crispy tofu, fresh ginger, garlic, and a lightly spicy harissa sauce. It’s colorful, satisfying, and a great way to bring more vegetables into your weekly dinner rotation.

If you’re looking for an easy vegetarian dinner that’s full of flavor and simple ingredients, this green bean stir-fry is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Want to make meals like this easier to plan?

Chickpeas, please!

Green Bean Stir-Fry with Crispy Tofu and Harissa

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g 1 lb green beans, trimmed and cut into 3–4 pieces
  • 1 block firm tofu about 400 g / 14 oz, cubed
  • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • 3 cm (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp harissa paste
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch or potato starch
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • salt to taste
For Serving
  • steamed rice
  • sesame seeds optional
  • fresh cilantro or sliced spring onions optional

Method
 

  1. Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Finely chop the garlic and grate the ginger.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
  5. Add the green beans and stir to coat them in the aromatics.
  6. Pour in the soy sauce and 1/2 cup water. Cover the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still have a slight bite.
  7. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in another skillet.
  8. Add the cubed tofu and cook, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides.
  9. Stir the harissa into the pan with the green beans.
  10. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1/2 cup cold water until smooth.
  11. Pour the mixture into the pan and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens.
  12. Season with salt if needed.
  13. Add the crispy tofu and gently toss everything together until coated in the sauce.
  14. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

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