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Pesto Tofu

Pesto Tofu

James
Make delicious pesto tofu with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. A simple, protein-packed vegan recipe perfect for any meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu:

  • 1 block 14 oz firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vegan Pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts or cashews
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Place the tofu in a clean towel and set something heavy on top to help press out the extra moisture.
  • Let it press for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  • Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes, slices, or triangles.
  • In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, pine nuts (or cashews), nutritional yeast, and salt until smooth.
  • If the mixture is too thick, add more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
  • In a bowl, toss the tofu with half of the pesto until evenly coated.
  • Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
  • Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place tofu on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Pan-frying: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook tofu until golden brown on all sides.
  • Air-frying: Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Toss the cooked tofu with the remaining pesto.
  • Serve over pasta, rice, or alongside a salad.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, coat tofu with a light dusting of cornstarch before cooking.
  • Want a nut-free pesto? Swap the pine nuts/cashews for sunflower seeds or hemp seeds.
  • Make it spicy! For an extra kick, sprinkle in some more red pepper flakes.
  • Meal prep tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 days in the fridge.
Keyword Pesto Tofu