Name: How To Make Lemon Pepper Tofu Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 16-oz package extra-firm tofu (drained, 453 g); 1 Tbsp cornstarch; 1 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning; ½ tsp salt

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Pepper Tofu is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With just four main ingredients, this crispy, zesty tofu pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables for a satisfying plant-based dinner.

A white bowl filled with three main layers: on the left side, fluffy white rice with a few black pepper specks, topped with two bright yellow lemon wedges; next to the rice, golden-brown grilled chicken pieces seasoned with black pepper, piled in the center; and on the right side, several bright green broccoli florets adding a fresh look. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface with additional lemon halves and a smaller white bowl of broccoli nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 16-oz package extra-firm tofu (drained, 453 g)
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat the tofu dry using a clean towel to remove excess moisture, then break it into bite-sized chunks.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Add the tofu pieces and toss gently to coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Lightly grease a baking sheet and arrange the coated tofu pieces in a single layer. Bake for about 25 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through baking to ensure even crispness and golden color.
Step 4: Once crispy and golden brown, remove the tofu from the oven and serve warm. It’s delicious alongside rice and steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, avoid using parchment paper and bake the tofu directly on a greased sheet.
Try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a different flavor twist.
Press the tofu under a heavy object for 15-20 minutes before drying to remove more moisture and improve texture.

Storage

Store leftover lemon pepper tofu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to help it regain its crispiness or warm gently in a skillet.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds a colorful meal arranged in three sections on a white marbled texture. One section has bright green broccoli florets, fresh and vibrant. The next section contains fluffy white rice with visible grains. The largest section features several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken, seasoned and slightly charred with a crisp texture. Two lemon wedges with a pale yellow color rest on the side of the rice. The background is covered with a warm yellow cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use soft or medium tofu instead of extra-firm?

Extra-firm tofu works best as it holds its shape during baking and crisps up nicely. Softer tofu tends to break apart and won’t achieve the same texture.

Is lemon pepper seasoning spicy?

Lemon pepper seasoning is typically a bright, citrusy blend with black pepper. It has mild heat from the pepper, but it’s not usually spicy or overwhelming.