Vegan Lemon Garlic Tofu & Broccoli Skewers

Flavor profile

Zesty lemon, lots of garlic, lightly smoky, crisp-edged tofu with tender broccoli.

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Ingredients

Main

• 14 oz (400 g) extra-firm tofu, pressed

• 2 cups broccoli florets (bite-size)

• Wooden skewers (soak 30 minutes) or metal skewers

Lemon Garlic Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil

• Zest of 1 large lemon

• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 4 cloves garlic, finely grated

• 1½ tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)

For finishing

• Lemon wedges

• Flaky salt

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

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Prep

1. Tofu

1. Press tofu at least 20–30 minutes.

2. Cut into 1½-inch cubes or thick rectangles.

For extra chew, you can freeze, thaw, and press the tofu beforehand.

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2. Broccoli

• Cut florets evenly.

• Blanch in salted boiling water 1½ minutes, then drain well.

This ensures tender broccoli without burning on the grill.

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Marinade

1. Whisk all marinade ingredients.

2. Taste: it should be lemon-forward and garlicky, slightly salty.

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Marinate

1. Toss tofu gently with half the marinade.

2. Toss broccoli with the remaining marinade.

3. Marinate 30 minutes (up to 2 hours), turning once.

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Skewer Assembly

Thread alternating pieces of tofu and broccoli, leaving small gaps for heat circulation.

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Cooking Methods

Grill (best flavor)

• Preheat grill to medium-high.

• Oil grates well.

• Grill skewers 3–4 minutes per side, turning carefully, until charred and golden.

Oven

• Heat oven to 425°F / 220°C.

• Line a tray with parchment.

• Bake 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway.

Pan / Grill Pan

• Heat lightly oiled pan over medium-high.

• Cook skewers 10–12 minutes, turning to brown all sides.

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Finish

• Squeeze fresh lemon over hot skewers.

• Sprinkle flaky salt and herbs.

• Optional drizzle of olive oil for shine.

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Serve With

• Lemon tahini sauce or vegan garlic aioli

• Herbed rice, quinoa, or couscous

• Warm pita or flatbread

• Simple cucumber–tomato salad

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Pro Tips

• Don’t overcrowd skewers — space equals caramelization.

• If using an oven, broil the last 2 minutes for color.

• Extra marinade can be simmered briefly and brushed on while cooking.

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Variations

• Mediterranean: Add oregano, thyme, and sliced red onion.

• Spicy: Add harissa or chili paste to the marinade.

• Protein boost: Add seitan chunks alongside tofu.