Description
This Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy crispy tofu. Marinated in a zesty lemon and black pepper blend, then oven-baked until golden and crispy, this dish makes a perfect protein-packed vegan or vegetarian main or side.
Ingredients
Scale
Tofu and Marinade
- 14 oz firm tofu
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cooking temperature throughout baking.
- Press Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy tofu when baked.
- Cut Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles depending on your preference; smaller pieces will become crispier.
- Make 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 Tofu: Add tofu pieces into the bowl and gently toss to coat them evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even baking.
- Bake Tofu: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to allow both sides to get crispy.
- Check Crispiness: The tofu should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes until desired crispiness is reached.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tofu from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve hot as a main or side dish.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu thoroughly is essential for best texture and crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper to your personal preference for heat.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Serve with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the tofu for an additional 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
