Broiled Tofu with Cilantro Pesto

Golden-brown broiled tofu slices served with a vibrant homemade cilantro pesto made with pine nuts, lime juice, and Asian seasonings. A delicious vegetarian main dish that combines fresh herbs with protein-rich tofu.

6 servings
32 min

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup mild olive oil
  • 2 packages firm tofu
  • 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons Asian fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Asian sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 serving garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat broiler and lightly oil a shallow flameproof baking pan with olive oil.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Cut each block of tofu crosswise into 6 slices and pat dry between several layers of paper towels. Arrange in 1 layer in baking pan and brush tops of slices with more olive oil. Broil 4 to 6 inches from heat, without turning, until golden brown, about 15 minutes.

    20 min

  3. 3.

    While tofu is broiling, purée cilantro, pine nuts, lime juice, fish sauce, sesame oil, sugar, remaining 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor until bright green and smooth, about 1 minute.

    5 min

  4. 4.

    Transfer tofu with a slotted spatula to a platter and serve with cilantro pesto.

    2 min

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