Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe

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If you’re craving a vibrant and satisfying plant-based dish, the Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe is exactly what you need to brighten up your meals. This recipe combines perfectly grilled tofu with a fresh, herb-packed chimichurri sauce that bursts with flavor and color. Whether you’re a seasoned tofu fan or just starting to explore meatless dishes, this Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe offers tender, smoky tofu slices complemented by a zesty, garlicky, and herby marinade that brings every bite to life. It’s simple to prepare but far from ordinary, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe serves a simple yet important role, from adding texture to layering delicate flavors or brightening up the dish’s appearance. With just a handful of fresh herbs, essential oils, and spices, you’ll have everything needed to make this dish shine.

• Firm or extra-firm tofu (1 block, 14 oz / 396g): Choose this for the best texture that holds well on the grill and soaks up the marinade beautifully.
• Flat-leaf parsley (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Adds a fresh, slightly peppery note and vibrant green color to the chimichurri.
• Cilantro (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Brings a bright, citrusy freshness that complements the parsley perfectly.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides that irresistible punch of savory depth to the chimichurri sauce.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds essential acidity to brighten the marinade; you can swap with red wine vinegar for a slight tang variation.
• Extra-virgin olive oil (1/3 cup): Creates a luscious, silky base that melds all flavors and keeps the tofu moist on the grill.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Offers subtle aromatic warmth; fresh oregano can be a wonderful substitute for an even livelier herb flavor.
• Table salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and allows the tofu to soak in the spices fully.
• Black pepper (a pinch): Adds a mild heat to round off the taste profile.
• Chile pepper flakes (optional, 1-2 teaspoons): Aleppo flakes are ideal for a gentle kick and extra depth if you like a bit of spice.

How to Make Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Marinade

Start by mixing the parsley, cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chile flakes (if using) in a medium bowl. This chimichurri marinade is your flavor powerhouse, so taste and tweak the seasoning before moving forward to make sure it’s just right for your palate.

Step 2: Prep the Tofu

For the best grilling experience, press the tofu to remove excess water—this helps it absorb the marinade better and get a firmer texture. For an even firmer bite, try freezing and thawing your tofu ahead of time. Then slice the tofu into about 1/3-inch thick pieces for easy grilling and marinating.

Step 3: Marinate the Tofu

Layer the tofu slices and the chimichurri marinade in an airtight container, then gently shake or stir to coat each piece evenly. Allow the tofu to soak in the vibrant flavors for at least an hour; if you have more time, letting it marinate longer will deepen the taste even further.

Step 4: Grill the Tofu

Preheat your grill to medium-low heat and place the marinated tofu slices on the grates. Grill for about 15 to 25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until you see gorgeous golden grill marks and the tofu develops a slightly crisp exterior. The heat infuses the tofu with a smoky element that works beautifully with the fresh chimichurri.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your tofu is grilled to perfection, it’s ready to be enjoyed as is or incorporated into your favorite dishes. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the leftover chimichurri over the slices—it adds a fresh punch that makes every bite memorable.

How to Serve Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate your Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe by adding visual appeal and texture contrasts. Consider sprinkling extra chopped parsley or cilantro on top, adding a wedge of lemon for zest, or even a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. These small touches bring your plate to life.

Side Dishes

Pair this flavorful tofu with light and complementary sides. A fluffy rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad highlight the fresh, herbaceous notes of the chimichurri while keeping the meal balanced and colorful. For a heartier option, try serving it in warm pita bread with fresh greens and sliced avocado.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by transforming this recipe into a vibrant tofu bowl with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and chickpeas drizzled with chimichurri sauce. You can also serve it as a protein-packed topping on toasted baguette slices for a flavorful appetizer or add it into vegan tacos with pickled onions for an irresistible twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover grilled tofu and chimichurri in airtight containers in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this tasty dish on busy days without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the grilled tofu slices without the chimichurri sauce for up to 2 months. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your tofu gently on a skillet over medium heat or use an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the slightly crispy texture achieved from grilling. Add fresh chimichurri after reheating for maximum flavor impact.

FAQs

Can I use silken tofu for this recipe?

Silken tofu is too soft and delicate for grilling, so firm or extra-firm tofu is best as it holds its shape and texture well under heat. Silken tofu would not provide the tasty crust or grill marks that make this recipe special.

How long should I marinate the tofu for?

At least one hour is ideal to let the flavors soak in, but if you can, marinate your tofu for up to 4 hours. Longer marinades allow the chimichurri to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chimichurri tastes even better when it has time to meld together. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just stir before using.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can cook the tofu on a grill pan or a regular non-stick skillet over medium heat. The smoky notes won’t be quite the same, but you’ll still achieve a delicious, golden crust.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences!

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Recipe is a true celebration of fresh herbs, smoky grilling, and simple ingredients coming together to create something joyful and nourishing. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to believe such a vibrant dish comes together with so little fuss. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a healthy, flavorful option to their meal rotation—give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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