Lemon Garlic Roasted Tofu & Veggies

Crispy tofu with roasted bell peppers and zucchini.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Tofu & Veggies:

A Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Delight.

This dish brings together crispy, golden-brown tofu with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion, all infused with a zesty lemon garlic marinade. The combination of textures and flavors makes this meal both satisfying and nutritious—a perfect choice for a plant-based weeknight dinner!

Ingredients:

For the tofu:

• 1 block (14 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the veggies:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, sliced (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano or basil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the tofu:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Press the tofu to remove excess moisture: Wrap the tofu in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and place something heavy on top (like a cast-iron pan) for about 10-15 minutes.
   • Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
   • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme (or oregano), salt, and pepper.
   • Toss the tofu cubes in the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
2. Prepare the veggies:
   • While the tofu is marinating, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion (if using).
   • Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried oregano (or basil), and toss to coat.
3. Roast the tofu and veggies:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   • Spread the marinated tofu cubes evenly on one side of the baking sheet.
   • Spread the vegetables on the other side of the baking sheet, ensuring everything is in a single layer for even roasting.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, tossing the tofu and veggies halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve:
   • Once done, remove from the oven and serve your Lemon Garlic Roasted Tofu & Veggies with a side of quinoa, rice, or on its own as a light meal.
   • Garnish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired.

Tips for the Best Roasted Tofu & Veggies:

• Press the Tofu Well: Removing excess moisture ensures a crispier texture. A tofu press works great, but a heavy pan over wrapped tofu does the job too.
• Marinate for More Flavor: Let the tofu soak in the lemon garlic marinade for at least 10 minutes, but for deeper flavor, marinate it for up to an hour.
• Even Roasting: Spread the tofu and veggies in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow them to roast evenly. Tossing halfway through ensures a crispy, golden exterior on the tofu.
• Serving Ideas: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad. Drizzle with tahini or a yogurt-based dressing for an extra creamy touch.
• Extra Crunch: For ultra-crispy tofu, add 1 tbsp of cornstarch to the marinade before roasting.

Enjoy your meal!