Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

This irresistible Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free! dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a romantic date night. The creamy, cheesy sun-dried tomato sauce complements the crispy tofu and soft gnocchi beautifully. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this vegan dinner recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and vegan cheese creates a rich sauce that is bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner plans.
• Versatile: Pair it with your favorite greens or serve it as a main course; this dish adapts to your dining needs.
• Vegan-Friendly: Completely plant-based, it’s ideal for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
• Comforting: The pillowy gnocchi and crispy tofu offer an indulgent experience that feels like a warm hug.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan or skillet
• Pot for boiling water
• Tofu press (optional)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan or skillet: A wide surface allows even cooking of the tofu and sauce without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling water: Essential for cooking gnocchi perfectly until they float, indicating they are done.
• Tofu press: Helps remove excess moisture from tofu, ensuring a crispier texture when cooked.

Ingredients

For the Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!, you will need the following ingredients:

Tofu and Sauce Ingredients

• 16 ounces extra-firm tofu
• 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
• Sea salt + pepper
• 2 tbsp vegan butter
• 7-8 large garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 cups (360 mL) vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120 mL) white apple vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups (360 mL) oat milk or cashew cream
• 2 tbsp all purpose flour
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup vegan cheese (either parmesan or vegan mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1-2 tsp red chili flakes
• 1 6 ounce jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (reserve 1 tbsp oil)
• Sea salt + pepper to taste

Gnocchi Ingredients

• 16 ounces vegan gnocchi (homemade gnocchi or store bought)
• Fresh basil to top

How to Make Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

Step 1: Press the Tofu

Press the tofu in either a tofu press or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. Place something heavy on top to help remove excess moisture. Let it sit for about 1–2 hours before preparing the recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

1. Cube the pressed tofu and place it in a bowl.
2. Toss the cubed tofu with arrowroot starch, sea salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Pan Fry the Tofu

In a large pan over medium heat:
Melt 2 tablespoons of vegan butter.
Add the arrowroot starch-coated tofu.
Fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Boil Water

Start bringing a large pot of water to boil while you prepare the sauce. Turn on the heat right before starting the next step so it heats up during cooking.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same pan used for frying tofu:
1. Sauté minced garlic in remaining vegan butter along with reserved sun-dried tomato oil until golden brown.
2. Add vegetable broth and white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan.
3. Stir in oat milk (or cashew cream), flour, and vegan cheese/nutritional yeast.
4. Add parsley and optional chili flakes; simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients

Mix in:
Tomato paste,
Chopped sun-dried tomatoes,
Sea salt + pepper to taste.
Cover and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Gnocchi

Once water is boiling:
Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (3–4 minutes).
Reserve about 1/4–1/2 cup pasta water if needed.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Stir in fried tofu and cooked gnocchi into the sauce. If desired, add reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness.

Step 9: Serve

Plate your creamy Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi! Top with fresh basil before diving in!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

Serving Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi is not just about the dish itself; it’s also about how you present and accompany it. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color.
• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for an extra layer of freshness and a vibrant touch.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes tossed in vinaigrette complements the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A vegan Caesar salad can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft gnocchi.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Artisan Bread: Offer slices of artisan bread for dipping into the creamy sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
• Garlic Bread: Vegan garlic bread can add a flavorful side that pairs beautifully with this dish.

How to Perfect Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

To make your Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Protein Flavor: Use marinated tofu for deeper flavor. Marinate it in soy sauce or your favorite seasoning before cooking.
• Crispiness Factor: Ensure your tofu is well-pressed to achieve maximum crispiness when frying. The drier the tofu, the better it will fry.
• Creamy Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your sauce by adding reserved pasta water. This helps create a silky texture.
• Vegan Cheese Selection: Experiment with different vegan cheeses. Some offer stronger flavors that can enhance the overall taste.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure and add more as needed.
• Leftovers Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

Complementing your Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil and roast until tender for a colorful side.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and pairs well with creamy sauces.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious option rich in protein.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory tofu dish while adding crunch.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy vegan mashed potatoes infused with garlic give this meal an indulgent touch perfect for comfort food lovers.
6. Lentil Soup – A hearty lentil soup brings warmth and depth, making it an excellent starter before enjoying the main course.
7. Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
8. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar can refresh your palate after each creamy bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not pressing tofu properly: Ensure you press the tofu adequately for at least 1-2 hours. This removes excess moisture and helps achieve that perfect crispiness.

• Using too much oil: While cooking, it might be tempting to use extra oil for frying. Stick to vegan butter and reserved sun-dried tomato oil for flavor without making it greasy.

• Overcooking the gnocchi: Pay attention to cooking time; overcooked gnocchi can turn mushy. Follow package instructions closely for best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Season both the tofu and sauce generously. A dash of salt and pepper can elevate flavors significantly, so don’t skip this step.

• Ignoring pasta water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It’s a great way to adjust sauce consistency if needed, ensuring every bite is delicious.

• Rushing the sauce preparation: Give the sauce ample time to simmer and thicken. A rushed sauce may lack depth of flavor and creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for quality taste.

Reheating Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi – Vegan & Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until heated throughout, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi:

Can I make Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your flour is also gluten-free.

What can I substitute for vegan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast or cashew cream as alternatives for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How do I customize Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. They will enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor!

Is Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how many chili flakes you add. Adjust according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Crispy Tofu with Gnocchi is not just rich and creamy; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Perfect for date nights or cozy dinners, this recipe is sure to impress anyone around your table. Try it today for an unforgettable meal experience!