Prepare to fall in love with the most irresistible pasta dish that's about to revolutionize your dinner routine! This "Marry Me Pasta with Tofu" is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that combines creamy, tantalizing flavors with protein-packed tofu and vibrant cherry tomatoes. Whether you're a pasta enthusiast, a tofu lover, or simply someone who appreciates a quick and delicious meal, this recipe promises to sweep you off your feet in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta of choice
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the firm tofu and press it between paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut the tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the cubed tofu to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove tofu and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce.
- Gently fold in the golden tofu cubes and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh torn basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Tofu Texture Matters: Always press your tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This ensures a golden, crispy exterior when pan-frying.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don't discard all your pasta water! The starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, smooth sauce.
- Customize Your Cream: If you're dairy-free, the coconut cream option works beautifully and adds a subtle tropical note.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh basil for garnishing to elevate the dish's aroma and flavor profile.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is classic, feel free to experiment with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative or try a blend of cheeses.
- Timing is Key: Cook your tofu first, then set it aside. This prevents overcooking and maintains its perfect golden crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 456kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
