Are you a fan of zesty flavors and all things green? If so, this Green Goddess Tofu Bowl is right up your alley, cuz it’s basically a mini garden party in your mouth. Now, full disclosure. Are you ready? I used to think tofu was the cardboard of the food world. (I know, right?) Obviously I was so SO wrong.
This is a bowl that even the greatest tofu skeptics will fall for. With its blend of fresh herbs and dreamy Green Goddess Dressing, it’s divine AND easy to make!
Why This Bowl is So Divine
- It’s Uber Fresh: This bowl, with its array of fresh ingredients, has that straight-from-the-garden vibe. It’s one of those bowls that tastes great and actually feels like you’re doing yourself a favor by eating it.
- Texture Up The Wazoo: Tofu has the ability to absorb the flavors around it while also being creamy. When you pair it with crunchy pumpkin seeds, creamy avocado, and charred grilled artichoke hearts, it’s like a texture party. They all come together in harmony somehow.
- Guilt-free!: This Green Goddess Tofu Bowl is packed with protein (from the tofu) and healthy fats (from the avo). It feels indulgent, but is also very good for you. And that homemade Green Goddess Dressing is so good, you’ll be spooning it onto everything.
The Power of Green
Green foods often signal to us that something is fresh, but it’s more than that. There’s a sense of vitality and good health. Let’s dive into why that is.
- Chlorophyll: The brilliant green pigment in plants is called chlorophyll. You might think of it as a plant’s blood. Consuming chlorophyll-rich foods triggers the body’s natural detox processes, promotes healthy digestion, AND they’re packed with antioxidants to protect your cells.
- Veggies: Green veggies, like lettuce or broccoli, are nutritional powerhouses because they’re LOADED with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Not only do they give your immune system a boost, but they also promote bone health!
- Herbs: The fresh herbs found in the Green Goddess Dressing have their own list of health benefits. Basil is an anti-inflammatory, parsley is a great detoxifier, cilantro can help reduce anxiety, and green onions are rich in vitamin K. This bowl is truly nourishing in almost every way!
Ways to Cook and Elevate Your Tofu Game
Tofu is a super versatile ingredient that can be cooked in all sorts of ways. Here are some of the more popular ways to prepare tofu:
- Press and Marinate: Tofu is a very wet ingredient, so before you add it to anything, it’s crucial to press it to remove any excess moisture. You can do this with a tofu press or by wrapping it in a clean towel, placing it on a plate, and setting a heavy object on top for about 30 minutes. Once it’s pressed, your tofu will act like a sponge to any marinade you add to it and soak up all the flavor.
- Pan-fry: Slice your tofu into slabs, sticks, or cubes. Heat up some oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add in those tofu pieces. Fry each side until they’re golden brown. This will give your tofu a crispy exterior and a soft interior.
- Stir-fry: This is best done with tofu cubes or small pieces. To start, make sure your pan is very hot, then add oil and the tofu. Stir-fry it with veggies and your choice of sauce, and you’ll get lightly crisped, flavorful tofu.
- Grill: Slice your tofu into thick slabs. Marinate them in whatever flavors your want and then place on a preheated grill. Cook each side for 2-4 minutes or until grill marks appear. Grilled tofu generally has a smoky flavor with a firm texture.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange your pre-marinated tofu slices or cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-35 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they are golden and slightly crispy.
- Deep Fry: Did you know that tofu cubes can be deep-fried in hot oil until they’re golden and crispy? This will also give them a crunchy exterior with a soft interior. Try fried tofu with sauces and serve as snacks!
- Steamed: Tofu can also be steamed for a soft and silky texture. Season it with soy sauce or other flavors beforehand and then place in a steamer for 15 minutes.
- Scrambled: Because tofu has a similar texture to cooked eggs, you can easily scramble it! Crumble tofu with a fork or your hands, then sauté it with veggies, seasonings, and spices for a tofu scramble that mimics scrambled eggs!
The Green Goddess Tofu Bowl – Buddha Bowl Style
Buddha Bowls are all about personalization. Here’s how you can play around with your Green Goddess Bowl to create your own version of zen:
- Base: Lettuce and Greens
- Swap-in Ideas: Feeling a little adventurous? Try baby spinach, kale, or even a handful of arugula. They each have their own unique texture and flavor profile, but they all work with the Green Goddess Dressing!
- Protein: Tofu
- Swap-in Ideas: Not in the mood for tofu or looking for something more hearty? You can replace it with tempeh for a nuttier flavor, chickpeas for an earthy touch, or even cubed chicken if that’s your vibe! Whatever you throw in, just remember to season it well.
- Veggies: Grilled Artichoke & Blanched Broccoli
- Swap-in Ideas: You might like grilled zucchini slices or roasted Brussels sprouts instead. If you’re a fan of sweeter flavors, try roasted butternut squash cubes.
- The Sauce: Green Goddess Dressing
- Swap-in Ideas: While the dressing takes this bowl to another level, you might love adding a hint of tahini or a splash of coconut milk to the dressing for a slightly different, but still creamy note.
- The Crunch: Pumpkin Seeds
- Swap-in Ideas: Use whatever you like! Sunflower seeds, crispy chickpeas, or even some roasted cashews!
Your bowl, your rules! 🌿🥗🌟
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for the dressing?
Sure! Just note that regular yogurt might be a tad bit thinner, so you may need to adjust the quantity or add a little extra herbs to thicken up the texture.
Any tips on pressing tofu?
Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel, place it on a plate, then set a heavy pan or some cans on top. Let it press for at least 30 minutes.
How long can I store the leftover Green Goddess Dressing?
Your homemade dressing can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a little stir before you use it, though!
More Delights from Steamy Kitchen
- Chinese Braised Tofu with Ground Pork
- Grilled Tofu with Miso Dressing
- Mushroom Tofu Potstickers
- Tofu Prosciutto Panini
Green Goddess Tofu Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 blocks extra firm tofu pressed and sliced into cubes
- 2 avocados diced
- 2 heads butter or bibb lettuce
- 1 small jar grilled artichoke hearts
- 4 cups broccoli or broccolini blanched
Green Goddess Dressing:
- 1 cup plain greek yogurt
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs i.e. cilantro, parsley, green onions, basil, etc.
- 1 garlic cloves
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice optional
Topping:
- pumpkin seeds /pepitas
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing adding Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, garlic, salt, and optional lemon juice into blender and blend until smooth.
- In four bowls, arrange butter or bibb lettuce leaves, tofu, diced avocados, grilled artichoke hearts, and blanched broccoli or broccolini.
- Drizzle each bowl generously with the Green Goddess Dressing.
- Sprinkle a handful of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) over each bowl for texture.
- Serve the Green Goddess Tofu Bowl immediately.
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