Description

This Baked Lemon Pepper Tofu recipe is an incredibly easy and delicious vegan main course featuring crispy, flavorful tofu cubes baked to perfection. Infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, black pepper, garlic, and onion powders, this dish offers a bright, zesty flavor profile. Perfect for a healthy dinner served over rice, salads, or roasted vegetables, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that caters to gluten-free and vegan diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu Mixture

14 oz block extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Garnish (optional)

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed and drained extra-firm tofu into 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to create a flavorful marinade.
Coat the Tofu: Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat all pieces thoroughly with the lemon pepper mixture.
Add Cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the coated tofu and toss again gently to create a light, crispy coating that will crisp up during baking.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the tofu cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart for optimal crispness.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Flip the tofu cubes halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides become golden brown and crisp.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the tofu from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot over rice, salads, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

For extra crispiness, try air frying at 375°F for 15–18 minutes instead of baking.
This tofu pairs wonderfully with grain bowls, stir-fries, or tossed into pasta dishes.
Double the lemon zest for a more intense citrus flavor.