Basil Balsamic Roasted Tofu is a protein-packed dish that features summer herbs. It's light and fresh with a slightly sweet flavor.
My family has a HUGE summer garden. It's so fun when I'm at home because I have access to tons of vegetables and herbs.
A few weeks ago my dad asked me to find a recipe to use some of the abundance of basil that we have growing. I decided to create something delicious for the blog!
I started researching marinade ideas to really feature the basil (instead of just using it as a garnish) and decided on basil-balsamic. Balsamic vinegar has a sweet, yet acidic flavor which pairs very well with the fresh basil.
We had a couple blocks of tofu in the fridge and I knew it was the perfect vessel for the basil balsamic marinade.
I know many people don't like tofu, but if you cook it right, tofu can be really delicious. The key is to make sure it's nice and crispy. None of that squishy texture that everyone hates!
To do that, we'll cook the tofu at a high temperature AND use the broiler to finish it off. Don't be afraid to leave the tofu in the oven a little longer. As long as it isn't burnt, crispy is better than soggy!
Before I run through the steps, let's talk marinades.
As the name suggests, the tofu marinade features basil and balsamic vinegar. There are a couple more ingredients that come together to make the flavor pop.
Oh, and you'll also need tofu!
If you plan to bake the tofu immediately, preheat the oven to 450 and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can marinate the tofu overnight.
Press the tofu. Use a tofu press, a heavy pot, or your hands. The goal is to remove some moisture so the tofu will absorb the marinade. Then, chop the tofu into small chunks. Place in a large bowl.
Mix 1/4 cup of the basil (reserve the other half), the balsamic, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the tofu. Toss to coat. Let marinate at least 30 minutes, or overnight. Stir once or twice to ensure all the tofu is covered.
Dump the tofu and marinade on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. At the 30-minute mark, turn the oven on broil and allow the tofu to brown for several minutes. Watch carefully so the tofu doesn't burn! Remove when the tofu is crispy.
Top the tofu with the reserved basil and enjoy!
Thank you God for fresh herbs that make food delicious. We are grateful for your abundance. Amen.
Looking for other tofu recipes? Try this Sweet Garlic Broccoli Tofu Bowl for a healthy dinner or this Oil-Free Vegan Tofu Scramble as a protein-packed breakfast!
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Basil Balsamic Roasted Tofu is a protein-packed dish that features summer herbs. It's light and fresh with a slightly sweet flavor.
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At Elizabeth's Table I bring you easy and nutritious, plant-based recipes, explore the relationship between food and faith, and share my unique lifestyle.
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