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Nuts and Twigs » Recipes » Veganuary Recipes

Grilled Chimichurri Tofu

Published: Mar 4, 2025 · Modified: Apr 8, 2025 by Regi Pearce · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

This chimichurri tofu features grilled tofu marinated in a smoky, tangy blend and then topped with a vibrant, rustic, easy-to-make chimichurri sauce. Perfect for meal prep, bowls, or as a protein-packed main, this dish is bursting with bold flavors, quick to make, and ready in less than 30 minutes!

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This recipe is similar to my Baked Pesto Tofu, but instead of a Pistachio Pesto, I'm using a delicious, simple chimichurri sauce for a herby flavor.

This dish works for weeknight dinners or meal prep. You can also serve it at your next BBQ - I see you, tofu skeptics - just take one bite, and it might change your mind.

The chimichurri sauce comes together super fast, too, so even if you don’t have any prepared, you can whip up this rustic sauce in just a few minutes.

Serve it alongside Vegan Greek Pasta Salad, Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad, or Vegan Macaroni Salad the next time you grill.

Jump to:
  • Why You'll Love This Recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Variations
  • How To Make Grilled Chimichurri Tofu
  • Top Tips
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Recipe FAQS
  • More Tofu Recipes
  • Grilled Chimichurri Tofu
  • Comments

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bold, herby chimichurri turns simple tofu into a flavor-packed meal.
  • Perfect for busy weeknights, the tofu and fresh sauce come together fast.
  • Make it ahead and enjoy tasty leftovers all week.
  • You can serve it over Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice, Bulgur Pilaf, or on salads for a filling and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

ingredients in bowls on a table for the grilled chimichurri tofu.

Tofu: I recommend using super firm tofu, as it holds up best when marinating and grilling without falling apart. To create sturdy slices, cut the block in half crosswise, then cut each half in half again, and repeat once more, ending up with eight thick slices. Keeping them on the thicker side helps maintain their structure during cooking.

I purchase super firm tofu at Sprouts or Trader Joe's.

Chimichurri: For an even quicker meal, sub the homemade chimichurri with the Trader Joe's chimichurri.

Red Pepper Flakes: Since the marinade and chimichurri contain red pepper flakes, you might expect this dish to be super spicy, but it’s not. It has just a hint of heat, which you can easily adjust to your taste.

See the recipe card for quantities and a complete list of ingredients.

Variations

Use the homemade chimichurri sauce from the recipe card for the freshest flavor, or try my Cuban Chimichurri Sauce for a twist. If you’re in a pinch, Trader Joe’s chimichurri is a decent option - but nothing beats fresh!

How To Make Grilled Chimichurri Tofu

Here's the recipe in action shots. See the recipe card for details.

Marinating tofu in a glass dish.

Step 1: Combine all the marinade ingredients into a sealable container. Place the tofu in the marinade, seal the container, and toss to coat.

Step 2: Combine the ingredients for the chimichurri sauce in a bowl and mix. Set aside in the fridge.

Step 3: Grill the tofu slices in a grill pan or outside grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side.

Step 4: Serve the tofu slices with chimichurri sauce on top.

Top Tips

  • Use super firm tofu. There is no need to press it, but drain it and pat it dry before slicing.
  • Slice the tofu about ½ inch thick to make the pieces sturdy and easier to handle.
  • Cut the tofu into triangles to keep the slices from sliding through the grates of a BBQ grill.
  • For the best texture, keep the chimichurri sauce rustic and chunky by chopping the ingredients by hand. If using a mortar and pestle, mash lightly to retain some texture. A food processor works too, just pulse a few times to avoid over-blending.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over lettuce, spinach, rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables like Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Vegan Parmesan.
  • Dice it up and use it as a filling for tacos, wraps, or grain bowls.
  • Serve on top of Vegan Pearl Couscous Salad, Bulgur Pilaf With Vegetables, or Instant Pot Vegetable Pearl Couscous.

Recipe FAQS

What kind of tofu is best for grilling?

Super firm tofu works best because it holds its shape well and doesn’t fall apart when marinating or grilling. Slice it into triangles so the slices do not fall through the grates. If using extra firm tofu, press it for at least 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture, but I can't guarantee it won't fall apart.

Can I make Grilled Chimichurri Tofu ahead of time?

Yes. For meal prep, marinate the tofu and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also make the chimichurri sauce in advance (it lasts about 5 days in the fridge) and grill the tofu when ready to serve.

How do I store Grilled Chimichurri Tofu?

Store leftover grilled chimichurri tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, keep the tofu and chimichurri sauce separate and reheat the tofu on a grill pan or microwave to maintain texture.

More Tofu Recipes

  • Mongolian tofu in a bowl topped with green onions and sesame seeds.
    Mongolian Tofu
  • slices of stacked smoked tofu on a plate
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Got a minute? I'd love for you to comment and rate Grilled Chimichurri Tofu. Your feedback is invaluable. Did you love it? Did you make any fun twists? Let me know how my directions worked so I can keep improving my recipes. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.

Grilled Chimichurri Tofu on a plate.

Grilled Chimichurri Tofu

Regi Pearce
This chimichurri tofu features grilled tofu marinated in a smoky, tangy blend and then topped with a vibrant, herby, easy-to-make chimichurri sauce. Perfect for meal prep, bowls, or as a protein-packed main, this dish is bursting with bold flavors, easy to make, and ready in less than 30 minutes!
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course main course
Cuisine Vegan
Servings 4 servings
Calories 299 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu

  • 1 block super firm tofu drained and patted dry; cut into ½ inch slices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chimichurri Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic minced; or crush in a mortar
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • juice of half a lemon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust for spice level
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 cup flat leaf parsley coarse stems removed, finely chopped; ~23 grams
Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Tofu: Drain the tofu and pat dry. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a shallow container that you can seal. Cut tofu block into eight ½-inch slices, then place in a shallow dish, cover, and toss gently to coat. Let it sit in the refrigerator while you prepare the chimichurri sauce.
  • Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together garlic, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, oregano, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined. Gently fold in the chopped parsley, ensuring it’s evenly coated. For a smoother texture, use a mortar and pestle or pulse briefly in a food processor. Refrigerate while grilling the tofu to let the flavors meld.
  • Grill Tofu: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill tofu for about 4-5 minutes per side until slightly charred.
  • Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle with chimichurri sauce before serving.

Video

Notes

I highly recommend the super firm when grilling. It is much less likely to rip or fall apart when tossing in the marinade or flipping on the grill.
If you are using a grill with grates, consider slicing the tofu into triangles so the slices don't slip through the grates.
Freeze and thaw tofu before marinating for a meatier texture.
Pan-Fry Method for the Tofu: Spray a pan with oil or heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Cook tofu for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Bake Method for the Tofu: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place tofu on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Sub the homemade chimichurri for an even quicker meal with the Trader Joe's chimichurri.

Nutrition

Calories: 299kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 914mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 3mg
Keywords bbq, beginner, budget friendly, easy, summer
Tried this recipe?Please consider Leaving a Review!

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About Regi Pearce

Hello! I am Regi, the creator of Nuts & Twigs. I debunk the myths that vegan food is all nuts and twigs and offer plant-based scrumptiousness that goes far beyond that "rabbit food" stereotype. So grab your fork and put on your stretchy pants, 'cause you're gonna want seconds.

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Regi Pearce says

    March 04, 2025 at 2:34 pm

    5 stars
    Absolutely delicious! The tofu gets a perfect char on the grill, and the chimichurri sauce adds a fresh, zesty kick. It’s flavorful, easy to make, and great for meal prep or summer grilling!

    Reply

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Regina Pearce

I'm Regi.

Head nut, chief twig, and creator of Nuts & Twigs. My husband, Rob, and I live in Colorado. Here, you can expect delicious vegan recipes that make you realize that a life without cheese is not only possible but also worth living.

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