Crispy Tofu and Spring Pea Shoot Pesto Recipe

Ingredients ~ Serves 2

1 block of extra firm tofu

1 tbsp. arrowroot

1 tsp. ground turmeric

1 tsp. smoked paprika

1/2 tsp. sea salt, to taste

1 tbsp. olive oil, or coconut oil

1 cup fresh spring pea shoots

1 bunch spring broccoli

2 cloves shaved garlic

1/2 lemon, juiced

walnut oil to finish, or extra virgin olive oil.

Method for Tofu

Slice the tofu block into 4 slices. Lay slices on paper towels to remove all the moisture. Do this step twice. This ensures crispy tofu. Cut the slices into large cubes and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, add the arrowroot, turmeric, salt, and paprika. Shake the bowl to blend. Add the cubes of tofu and shake the bowl to coat the tofu. It is best not to mix this with your hands, as it adds moisture to the tofu.

Heat a large nonstick pan on medium to high heat. A cast iron pan works as well.

Add the oil of choice. Add the cubed tofu and saute for 5 minutes. Flip tofu over gently, with a silicone spatula. Saute for 5 minutes, or until you get a crispy exterior.

Method for Pea Shoot Pesto

1 big bunch of Spring Pea shoots, or arugula (stems removed)

1 clove green garlic

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 cup pine nuts, toasted, or walnuts

1 cup Parmigiano or asiago, grated (nutritional yeast for vegan)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Blend all the ingredients in a food processor. Do not over-mix, as it will make the pesto bitter. Taste it for seasoning. It can be made ahead. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Method for Broccoli & Pea Shoots

Saute the broccoli in olive oil, with shaved garlic for 5 minutes. Add salt to taste. Squeeze fresh lemon over the broccoli. In a small bowl, dress the pea shoots with sea salt, and a squeeze of lemon.

Assembly

In a shallow bowl, add the broccoli. Lay the crispy tofu over the broccoli. Dollop with pesto. Cover the dish with the fresh pea shoots. Drizzle walnut oil over the dish, if using. Gives the dish a delicate nutty flavor.

Laurie Richardone is a seasonal gluten free chef and certified health coach.

To work with Laurie, visit LaurieRichardone.com