Description
This Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu recipe is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy crispy, golden tofu with a tangy lemon and pepper marinade. Perfect for a healthy vegetarian main or side dish, it combines simple ingredients to create a deliciously zesty and protein-packed meal that’s ready in under an hour.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to achieve even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Prepare Tofu: Drain the tofu and press it gently between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Proper pressing is essential to ensure the tofu crisps up nicely in the oven.
- Cut Tofu: Slice the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes or rectangles according to your preference. Smaller pieces will become crispier when baked.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt to create a bright, flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Tofu: Add the tofu pieces to the marinade and gently toss to coat evenly. Let the tofu marinate for about 10 minutes to soak in the fresh citrus and spices.
- Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the marinated tofu pieces in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even crisping all around.
- Bake Tofu: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Flip the tofu halfway through the baking time to promote even browning and crisp texture.
- Check Crispiness: The tofu should be golden brown and crispy on the edges. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes until you get the desired crispiness.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Allow to cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is critical to remove moisture and achieve crispiness; if you have a tofu press, use it for best results.
- Smaller tofu pieces crisp up better, so cut into bite-sized or smaller cubes.
- Feel free to adjust the lemon juice and pepper amounts to your taste preference.
- Serve with rice, salad, or as a protein-packed snack.
- The tofu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for crispiness.
