Name: Marry Me Tofu: Crispy Triangles in a Creamy Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 block Super firm tofu (Well-pressed to ensure crispiness); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (For crispy coating); 1/4 cup Nutritional yeast (Adds cheesy flavor); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper (For spice); 2 tablespoons Avocado oil (For frying); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (Chopped); 1 teaspoon Oregano (Dried); 1/2 teaspoon Red chili flakes (Adjust for heat preference); 1 cup Vegetable broth (For sauce base); 2 tablespoons Tomato paste (To thicken sauce); 1/2 cup Cashew Cream (For creamy texture); 2 cups Baby spinach (Fresh); 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves (Chopped); 1/4 cup Vegan Parmesan (Optional for serving)

Imagine the enticing aroma of garlic sizzling in a pan, mingling with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, taking your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. That’s precisely what this Crispy Tofu Triangles with Sun-dried Tomato Cream Sauce brings to your kitchen—a dish so divine that I can confidently call it “Marry Me Tofu.” It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet wholesome, a vibrant twist on your weeknight meals.

After leaving the realm of bland takeout, this recipe was my beacon of flavor and health. Each crispy triangle of tofu is a canvas, beautifully painted with a rich, creamy sauce that boasts both savory and slightly spicy notes. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook looking to impress, this dish offers the ease of preparation and versatility to suit any gathering. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe might just sweep you off your feet (or at least get you some delicious compliments!). So, let’s dive into this culinary delight that will have your friends and family begging for more!

Why is Marry Me Tofu a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: The crispy tofu triangles, paired with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce bring excitement to your plate.

Quick prep: This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for entertaining.

Vegan-friendly: Satisfy both plant-based eaters and carnivores alike, making it a versatile dish for gatherings.

Nutritious ingredients: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, this meal is not just delicious, but also wholesome.

Crowd-pleaser: Anyone who tries it will be asking for seconds! This dish takes comfort food to the next level. Enjoy with a fresh salad or alongside your favorite grain for a complete meal that delights.

Marry Me Tofu Ingredients

• Dive into this delightful dish with these simple yet flavorful ingredients!

For the Tofu

Super firm tofu – A well-pressed tofu ensures crispy triangles that hold their shape perfectly.
Cornstarch – Helps create that irresistible crispy coating for the tofu.
Nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Salt – Season to boost flavors; balance it according to your taste.
Ground black pepper – A sprinkle adds a kick of spice to the dish.

For the Sauce

Avocado oil – High smoke point oil that provides a lovely crisp when frying the tofu.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a fragrant aroma.
Sun-dried tomatoes – These bring a rich, tangy flavor to the creamy sauce.
Oregano – Adds a hint of earthiness, complementing the tomatoes beautifully.
Red chili flakes – Just a pinch gives your dish a subtle heat that elevates the flavor profile.
Vegetable broth – Use to create a luscious sauce that still feels light and healthy.
Tomato paste – Thickens the sauce while intensifying the tomato flavor.
Cashew Cream – Use this creamy alternative for a rich, vegan-friendly twist.
Baby spinach – Adds freshness and vibrant color to your dish.
Fresh basil leaves – Brightens the flavor profile and adds a fragrant touch.
Vegan Parmesan (optional) – For those who want an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Get ready to create a vibrant meal with these Marry Me Tofu ingredients, and let the flavors whisk you away!

How to Make Marry Me Tofu

Prepare the tofu: Start by pressing your super firm tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into delightful triangles for that perfect crispy texture.
Coat the tofu: Toss the tofu triangles in a bowl with cornstarch, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for a fantastic crunch.
Cook the tofu: In a skillet, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add the tofu triangles and cook until they turn crispy and golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Sauté garlic: In a separate saucepan, sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, around 1-2 minutes, creating a delectable base for your sauce.
Simmer the sauce: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth to the saucepan. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Incorporate cream: Stir in the tomato paste and Cashew Cream, mixing well before bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer for a silky texture.
Add greens: Gently fold in the baby spinach and fresh basil, cooking just until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
Serve it up: Plate your crispy tofu triangles and generously drizzle the sun-dried tomato cream sauce over them. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Optional: Sprinkle with Vegan Parmesan for added cheesy goodness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Tofu

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This creamy sun-dried tomato sauce can enhance in flavor as it sits.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the crispy tofu triangles separately, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months. The sauce is best refrigerated and not frozen.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the tofu in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Heat the sauce gently on the stovetop before serving.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with a fresh side salad or cooked grains to make a complete meal the whole family will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Marry Me Tofu crispy triangles are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the tofu by pressing it and cutting it into triangles up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crispy coating can be added just before cooking to maintain that irresistible crunch. As for the sun-dried tomato cream sauce, you can make it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce on low heat while frying the tofu triangles for a few minutes until golden brown, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready – just like fresh!

Expert Tips for Marry Me Tofu

Press Tofu Well: Ensure you’ve pressed the tofu thoroughly to eliminate excess moisture. This prevents soggy triangles and promotes that delightful crispiness you’re aiming for.
Even Coating: When tossing the tofu in cornstarch and nutritional yeast, ensure each triangle is evenly coated. This guarantees a consistent crunchy layer that enhances flavor.
Watch the Heat: Cook the tofu over medium heat for the best results. Too high a heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside soft—aim for perfect golden brown!
Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning in the sauce according to your preference. A little more salt or chili can make a world of difference in the flavor of your Marry Me Tofu.
Don’t Overcook Spinach: Add the spinach just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients. Overcooking can result in a wilted, less appetizing appearance.
Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to swap in different herbs or spices to create variations of this dish. It’s versatile, so have fun with your own spin on Marry Me Tofu!

Marry Me Tofu Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful recipe with your personal touch!

Spicy Kick: Add more red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra punch of heat. Your taste buds will thank you!
Herb Explosion: Swap fresh basil for other herbs like dill or cilantro to change the flavor profile and give it a refreshing twist. Each herb brings its own unique flair, and your dish will feel completely new.
Nut-Free: Replace the cashew cream with coconut cream or a nut-free vegan cream alternative if you’re avoiding nuts. This will keep the creaminess while catering to dietary needs.
Veggie Boost: Mix in more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, into the sauce for added nutrition and colorful presentation. It’s a simple way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Cheesy Delight: For a cheesy twist, fold in some nutritional yeast directly into the sauce for an umami explosion. You can never have too much flavor!
Crispy Tofu Variants: Experiment by baking or air-frying the tofu instead of pan-frying for a healthier version. No matter the cooking method, the tofu will still shine!
Savory Spin: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms with the garlic for a new savory depth that complements the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully. The mushrooms add an excellent texture that enhances each bite.
Grain-Packed: Serve the crispy tofu triangles over a bed of quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a heartier meal. This will make your dish filling and perfectly comforting!

What to Serve with Marry Me Tofu?

Imagine savoring the delightful crunch of crispy tofu triangles against vibrant side dishes that complement every bite of flavor.

Quinoa Salad: A light and fluffy quinoa salad with fresh herbs and lemony dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The charred edges and garlicky aroma of roasted broccoli enhance the meal, providing a crispy texture and healthy greens.
Creamy Polenta: This smooth, creamy polenta acts as a perfect base, soaking up the luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce and balancing flavors beautifully.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato fries pairs perfectly with the savory tofu, adding a satisfying crunch.
Simple Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate, cutting through the richness of the dish.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil serves as a delightful, textural counterpoint to the creamy sauce.
Lemonade Iced Tea: For beverages, opt for a light and refreshing lemonade iced tea that complements the dish’s rich flavors while keeping things cool.
Vegan Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a velvety vegan chocolate mousse that’s rich yet not overly heavy, tying the meal together beautifully.

Marry Me Tofu Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best tofu for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I highly recommend using super firm or extra-firm tofu. Look for tofu that is well-packaged and shows no signs of expiration. You want to avoid any soft or silken varieties, as these won’t hold their shape well when frying. Pressing the tofu to remove excess water is key for achieving that crispy texture!

What is the best way to store leftover Marry Me Tofu?
When it comes to storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors of the sun-dried tomato sauce may even deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

Can I freeze Marry Me Tofu?
Yes, you can! I often freeze the tofu triangles separately. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. However, I recommend keeping the sun-dried tomato cream sauce refrigerated, as freezing may alter its texture.

What should I do if my tofu isn’t getting crispy?
Very commonly, if your tofu isn’t crisping up, it might be due to excess moisture. Make sure to press your tofu well before preparing it. When tossing with cornstarch, ensure the coating is even, and don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying—give those triangles space so they can fry up beautifully!

Is Marry Me Tofu suitable for those with allergies?
This dish can be a delightful option for many diets! It’s naturally vegan, but if you have specific allergies like soy or nuts, you can substitute the tofu with seitan or tempeh, and if avoiding nuts, look for a nut-free cream alternative. Always check the labels on your ingredients for allergens, especially if you’re cooking for others.

How should I reheat leftover crispy tofu?
To reheat and retain that wonderful crispiness, I recommend baking your tofu triangles in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them from becoming soggy. Gently warm the sauce on the stovetop, and you’ll enjoy a tasty meal once again!