Description
This Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu is a simple, flavorful, and healthy recipe perfect for a quick meal. Firm tofu is marinated in a zesty lemon pepper mixture, then baked to crispy perfection. It’s a great plant-based dish that combines bright citrus notes with a savory kick, ideal for tofu lovers and those looking to add more protein to their diet.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu
- 14 oz firm tofu
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature throughout the baking process.
- Press the Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy texture when baked.
- Slice the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangular pieces, depending on your preference. Smaller pieces will yield a crispier result.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Tofu: Add the tofu pieces into the marinade and gently toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the fresh lemon pepper flavors.
- Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even crisping.
- Bake the Tofu: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Flip the tofu halfway through baking to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy.
- Check Crispiness: If the edges are not yet crispy or golden brown, continue baking for an additional 5 minutes until the desired texture is achieved.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and allow the tofu to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Pressing tofu removes excess moisture, which helps it crisp up better in the oven.
- Marinating tofu adds flavor, but avoid marinating for longer than 30 minutes, as it can become soggy.
- You can use either lemon zest or lemon juice fresh from lemons for the best flavor.
- For extra crispiness, you can bake the tofu on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.
- This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low in fat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
