Summer Picnic Delights: Grilled Tofu Skewers, Tofu Butter Bread Spread, and Fruity Tofu Parfait
Summer is the perfect time for picnics – lazy afternoons spent lounging on a blanket, surrounded by good food and good company. And what's better than delicious, vegan-friendly recipes that can be enjoyed in the great outdoors? In this post, we're bringing you three easy and tasty dishes that are sure to be a hit at your next summer picnic: Grilled Tofu Skewers, Tofu Butter Bread Spread, and Fruity Tofu Parfait.
Grilled Tofu Skewers (Extra firm tofu)
First, we have Grilled Tofu Skewers – a savory and smoky dish perfect for grilling outdoors. Tofu is a great option for the grill because it holds its shape well and soaks up marinade flavors like a sponge. To make this dish, start by selecting extra firm tofu, which will hold up better on skewers. Cut the tofu into cubes and marinate it in your favorite sauce for at least an hour. Then, skewer the tofu with colorful veggies like bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini. Grill the skewers until the tofu is golden brown and the veggies are tender. Serve alongside grilled corn or a tangy vegan dipping sauce for a meal that's sure to please.
Ingredients:
1 package of extra-firm tofu, drained
1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 red onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
For the marinade:
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Whisk together the marinade ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
In a large bowl, toss the tofu and vegetables with the marinade until evenly coated.
Thread the tofu and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between tofu and vegetables.
Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the tofu is caramelized and crispy.
Tofu Butter Bread Spread (Soft tofu)
Next, we have Tofu Butter Bread Spread – a creamy and delicious vegan spread perfect for bread, crackers, or veggies. To make this spread, simply blend soft tofu, vegan butter, and your favorite herbs or spices in a food processor until smooth. You can also experiment with adding different flavors, like roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes, to create a spread that's uniquely yours. This spread is perfect for picnics because it's easy to transport and can be enjoyed as a dip or a spread.
Ingredients:
1 block (14 oz) of soft tofu
2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine, at room temperature
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh herbs (such as basil, chives, or parsley)
Instructions:
In a food processor or blender, blend the soft tofu, vegan butter, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Add fresh herbs if desired and pulse until just combined.
Serve as a dip or spread for bread, crackers, or veggies.
Fruity Tofu Parfait (Extra silken tofu)
Finally, we have Fruity Tofu Parfait – a refreshing and healthy dessert that's perfect for hot summer days. To make this parfait, start by blending extra silken tofu with your favorite fruits, like strawberries, blueberries, or mango. This dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing a nutritious boost of protein and fiber. Layer the fruit-tofu mixture with granola or crushed nuts in a clear glass for a pretty and colorful dessert that's as tasty as it is nutritious. And since the parfait can be made ahead of time, it's a great dessert option for any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
1 block of extra silken tofu
1 pre-made sponge cake or vegan cupcake, cut into half
Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, and mango)
Granola or crushed nuts
Instructions:
In a food processor or blender, blend the extra silken tofu with your favorite fruits until smooth and creamy.
In a clear glass, layer the cake pieces with the fruit-tofu mixture and granola or crushed nuts.
Repeat the layers until the glass is full, ending with a layer of fruit-tofu mixture on top.
Chill the parfait in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips for Picnicking
Of course, no picnic is complete without a few tips for making the most of your outdoor dining experience. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: Pack your dishes in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil to keep them fresh and prevent leaks. Bring a cooler filled with ice packs to keep your dishes chilled and safe to eat. Don't forget to bring plenty of napkins, utensils, and plates.
Finally, choose a shady spot to set up your picnic blanket and enjoy your delicious meal!
With these three delicious vegan-friendly dishes and a few tips for a successful picnic, you're sure to have a summer to remember. So, grab your blanket and your favorite outdoor dining companions and head out into the sunshine!
