This roasted tofu with broccoli rabe and garlic is a dinner recipe that’s quick, delicious, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Combining crisp, tender-stemmed broccoli rabe with golden tofu brushed in a savory Asian fish sauce glaze, this dish is bursting with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.
It’s the perfect way to elevate a plant-based dinner while keeping it satisfying and easy to prepare.
Why This Dinner Recipe Stands Out
This roasted tofu recipe isn’t your average weeknight meal. The high-heat roasting method brings out the best in both the tofu and broccoli rabe, giving them a delightful texture and rich flavor.
The addition of garlic, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil enhances the Mediterranean flair, while the Asian fish sauce adds a salty, umami depth. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a group, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience from the comfort of your own kitchen.
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Tips for Perfect Roasted Tofu & Broccoli Rabe
- Press Your Tofu for Best Results: To achieve a crisp, golden exterior, make sure to press your tofu before roasting. Removing excess moisture allows the tofu to absorb more of the flavorful marinade and ensures it roasts evenly.
- Adjust Broccoli Rabe to Taste: If you’re not a fan of the bitter edge that broccoli rabe can have, try substituting it with tender broccolini or smaller broccoli florets. These alternatives offer a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Experiment with Seasoning: This recipe includes optional coriander seeds and red chili flakes. Feel free to add these for extra depth or spice, or skip them for a simpler flavor profile.
Versatile Pairings for a Complete Meal
This roasted tofu recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes to complete your dinner. For a heartier meal, serve it with brown rice or farro.
Both options complement the dish’s bold flavors and add a nutty, satisfying texture. If you’re going for something lighter, a fresh Mediterranean salad or a slice of crusty whole-grain bread works just as well.
Customizations for Dietary Preferences
- Vegan-Friendly Option: Swap out the fish sauce for a plant-based alternative, like tamari or soy sauce with a splash of lime juice, to keep this recipe entirely vegan without sacrificing flavor.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure your fish sauce or its vegan replacement is gluten-free. Pair with naturally gluten-free grains like quinoa or wild rice for a fully gluten-free dinner.
- Low-Sodium Alternative: Use a reduced-sodium fish sauce and season the dish with minimal kosher salt to create a heart-healthier version of this recipe.
Easy Preparation for Any Occasion
One of the best aspects of this dinner recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour from start to finish, you can have a meal that feels indulgent yet fits into even the busiest of schedules.
It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, but it’s also impressive enough to serve when entertaining guests.
This roasted tofu and broccoli rabe dish checks all the boxes for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re exploring plant-based options or looking for a creative way to use tofu, this dinner idea is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Roasted Tofu Dinner Recipe with Broccoli Rabe & Garlic
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Microplane or garlic grater (optional)
Ingredients
For the Tofu:
- 2 packages 14 to 16 ounces each extra-firm tofu, drained and patted dry
- 4 garlic cloves grated or minced
- 4 teaspoons Asian fish sauce
- 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more as needed
- 2 pinches red chile flakes optional
For the Broccoli Rabe:
- 1½ pounds trimmed broccoli rabe about 2 medium bunches
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds optional
- Finely grated zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 450°F and lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with olive oil.
- Prepare the Tofu: Cut the tofu into ¾-inch-thick slices and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the greased baking sheet.
- Make the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine half the grated garlic with the fish sauce, lemon juice, and ¼ cup of olive oil. Season both sides of the tofu slices with salt, then use a brush to coat them with half of the sauce mixture. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and roast for 20 minutes.
- Prep the Broccoli Rabe: While the tofu cooks, prepare the broccoli rabe. Use a mortar and pestle or the side of a knife blade to gently crush the coriander seeds, if using (there’s no need to grind them fully). Toss the broccoli rabe in a large bowl with the remaining grated garlic, crushed coriander seeds, the remaining ¼ cup of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the chile flakes if desired.
- Roast the Broccoli Rabe: Spread the broccoli rabe evenly on a separate baking sheet. Add it to the oven alongside the tofu and roast, stirring once or twice, until the rabe is tender and golden at the edges. This should take about 10 to 13 minutes.
- Flip and Finish the Tofu: Turn the tofu slices over and brush them with the remaining sauce mixture. Continue roasting until the underside turns golden brown, approximately 5 to 10 more minutes.
- Assemble the Dish: Once cooked, toss the warm broccoli rabe with the grated lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve the broccoli rabe layered over the tofu slices for a complete and flavorful meal.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with brown rice or farro for a complete meal.
- For a milder flavor, substitute the broccoli rabe with tender broccoli florets or a similar vegetable.
- The red chile flakes add a subtle heat, but they are optional for those who prefer less spice.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.