If you love vibrant flavors paired with wholesome, plant-based goodness, then you are absolutely going to adore this Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe. Juicy cubes of tofu soak up a zesty marinade bursting with fresh lemon, fragrant coriander, and warming spices, before getting grilled to perfection alongside crisp bell peppers and tender zucchini. These skewers are simple to prepare, full of fresh color, and deliver a satisfying bite that’s perfect whether serving as a main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The balance of citrus brightness and herbaceous charm in this dish makes it an irresistible choice for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly important in crafting the delicious layers of flavor and texture that make the Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe so special. Each one plays a unique role—from the firm tofu providing a hearty base, to the fresh herbs and spices which awaken your palate with every bite.
- Firm tofu (14 ounces): Pressed and cubed for the perfect texture that holds up beautifully on the grill.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps carry the marinade flavors deep into the tofu.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings a fresh, tangy zing that brightens the entire dish.
- Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the citrus aroma and adds vibrant lemon notes.
- Fresh coriander leaves (1 tablespoon): Finely chopped, for an earthy, citrusy herbal touch.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, 1 tablespoon): Adds another layer of greenery and brightness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Offers a punch of savory depth that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the herbal complexity with warm, spicy undertones.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky earthiness to the marinade.
- Turmeric (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a mild warmth and beautiful golden color.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and brings out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just enough heat for a little kick without overpowering.
- Red bell pepper (1, cut into 1-inch pieces): Offers sweetness and vibrant color contrast on the skewers.
- Zucchini (1, sliced into thick rounds): Provides mild flavor and a tender texture that grills beautifully.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading everything together for even grilling.
How to Make Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Tofu
Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped coriander leaves, optional parsley, minced garlic, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is where the magic begins, infusing the tofu with bright, herbaceous, and warmly spiced flavors. Gently toss the tofu cubes in this mixture to ensure every piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want a deeper, more intense flavor.
Step 2: Soak the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for 15 to 20 minutes before grilling. This simple step helps prevent them from burning on the grill, allowing you to focus on that perfect char without worrying about flare-ups or charred sticks.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Then, thread the marinated tofu cubes alternately with the red bell pepper pieces and zucchini rounds onto the skewers. This colorful sequence not only looks beautiful but also creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures with every bite.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Grill the skewers for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides get a golden, slightly charred finish. The tofu will develop a lovely crust while the vegetables become tender yet still maintain a satisfying bite. For an extra boost of flavor, feel free to brush the skewers with any leftover marinade as they cook. If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, broiling in the oven on a foil-lined tray for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, works wonderfully too.
How to Serve Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander or parsley really lifts these skewers, adding a burst of color and freshness just before serving. A dollop of cooling yogurt dip or raita complements the zesty, spiced tofu beautifully, balancing heat and tang.
Side Dishes
For a full meal, serve the skewers over a bed of fragrant basmati rice or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Light and nutritious sides enhance the skewers without overwhelming their bold flavors, making for a harmonious plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these skewers into a vibrant buffet centerpiece by mixing charred skewers with assorted dips like mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or even a smoky barbecue glaze. They also work brilliantly in flatbreads or wraps, paired with crunchy slaw for a fresh and fun handheld meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the skewers separate from any dips or sides to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead on a larger scale, these tofu skewers freeze well. Place grilled skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a grill pan for a few minutes to bring back some of that irresistible char and smoky aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides bell pepper and zucchini?
Absolutely! Vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or red onions would also grill beautifully with the flavors in this Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is firm tofu the only option for this recipe?
Firm tofu is best because it holds its shape on skewers and absorbs the marinade well. Silken or soft tofu wouldn’t work here as they’re too delicate and would likely fall apart during grilling.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices and other ingredients don’t contain added gluten. Always double-check store-bought items if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.
What can I substitute for fresh coriander if I don’t have any?
If fresh coriander isn’t available, you can use extra parsley or a small amount of ground coriander powder to maintain the bright, slightly citrusy flavor. However, fresh coriander is ideal for its unique taste and aroma.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Definitely! The Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe is 100% vegan and also gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for plant-based eaters and those with dietary restrictions looking for flavorful, healthy options.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyous about the sizzling aroma and vibrant taste of these Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining friends with a flavorful appetizer, this recipe brings a wonderful combination of freshness, warmth, and color to the table. I highly encourage you to give this Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy tofu!
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Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired, Fusion
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
These vibrant Lemon Coriander Tofu Skewers offer a refreshing and flavorful vegan option, featuring marinated tofu cubes paired with fresh vegetables, grilled to perfection with a zesty lemon and aromatic coriander marinade. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they bring together Indian-inspired spices with a fusion twist for a healthy, gluten-free dish that’s easy to prepare and full of satisfying textures and colors.
Ingredients
Tofu and Marinade
- 14 ounces firm tofu (pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Assembly
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 zucchini (sliced into thick rounds)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped coriander leaves, parsley (if using), minced garlic, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Tofu: Add the pressed and cubed tofu to the marinade bowl and gently toss to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to deepen the flavors.
- Prep the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling. Meanwhile, cut the red bell pepper into 1-inch pieces and slice the zucchini into thick rounds.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated tofu cubes alternately with the bell pepper pieces and zucchini slices onto each skewer, arranging to your preference for an appealing presentation.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat to prepare for cooking the skewers.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the grill, cooking for 8–10 minutes. Turn occasionally so that all sides of the tofu and vegetables get a golden, slightly charred finish while keeping the vegetables tender.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve warm, optionally accompanied by a yogurt dip, chutney, or over rice or salad for a complete meal experience.
Notes
- For an extra charred flavor, brush the skewers with any leftover marinade while grilling.
- This recipe can also be adapted for oven cooking by broiling the skewers on a foil-lined tray for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
