Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! This crispy tofu sheet pan recipe is your new go-to for easy homemade cooking. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this dish is ready in under 30 minutes and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Get ready to experience the joy of simple, satisfying, and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Pressing the tofu is crucial for achieving that satisfyingly crispy texture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like books or a cast iron skillet) on top for at least 15 minutes. This removes excess water. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a large bowl, toss the cubed tofu with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Make sure all the tofu pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (longer is even better!).
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the tofu marinates, prepare your vegetables. Chop the broccoli and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes if they are large.
Step 4: Roast the Tofu and Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the marinated tofu and prepared vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they aren't overcrowded; this ensures even cooking and browning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through, until the tofu is golden brown and crispy, and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Keep an eye on it – ovens vary!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. This delicious and healthy dish is perfect on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or with a side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Pressing the Tofu: This step is essential for achieving crispy tofu. Don't skip it!
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure the tofu and vegetables are in a single layer to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A dash of chili flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add More Veggies: Get creative with your vegetables! Add zucchini, carrots, Brussels sprouts, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
Variations:
- Spicy Tofu: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory Tofu: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Lemon Herb Tofu: Replace the soy sauce with lemon juice and add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size. However, a general estimate per serving would be around:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This crispy tofu sheet pan recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a healthy weekend meal. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with this flavorful and satisfying dish!