Name: Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 16 ounce super firm tofu (or extra-firm, pressed well); 4 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or other high-heat safe oil); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes; 1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 cup Cashew Cream (or other vegan cream); 2 cups baby spinach (sliced or chopped); 4-5 fresh basil leaves (chopped); 1/2 cup Vegan Parmesan (optional)

If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and downright crave-worthy, you’re in the right place. The Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe is a luscious, plant-based twist on a classic, featuring crispy tofu bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce bursting with the vibrant tones of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and an irresistible depth of flavor that might just have you asking this tofu to marry you back!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven golden brown slices of fried food arranged inside a gray pan with a metal handle. Each slice has a slightly different shape but is mostly oval, with a crispy texture visible on the surface. Some slices have a darker brown edge, indicating they are more cooked, while others are lighter yellow with a soft look. The pan has a few shiny spots of oil around the slices, reflecting light softly. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create a magnificent symphony of taste and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the firm tofu that crisps up beautifully to the rich cashew cream that coats every morsel in velvety goodness.

Super firm tofu (16 ounces): Pressed well, this tofu holds its shape and gets wonderfully crispy on the outside.
Cornstarch (4 tablespoons): This creates that perfect crunchy coating on the tofu when fried.
Nutritional yeast (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle cheesy, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the flavors in both tofu and sauce.
Avocado oil (3 tablespoons): A high-heat oil ideal for frying the tofu to golden perfection.
Garlic (5 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and depth.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds a sweet, tangy punch to the creamy sauce.
Oregano and red chili flakes: Spice and herbiness that brighten the overall flavor.
Vegetable broth (1 cup): Serves as the flavorful base of the sauce, keeping it light yet savory.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the tomato flavor and lends richness.
Cashew cream (1 cup): This vegan cream creates the luscious texture of the sauce; you can substitute with other vegan creams as desired.
Baby spinach (2 cups, sliced or chopped): Adds freshness and a beautiful pop of color.
Fresh basil leaves (4-5, chopped): Infuse aromatic brightness just before serving.
Vegan Parmesan (optional, 1/2 cup): Gives a cheesy finish that makes this dish feel indulgent.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Pan Fry the Tofu

First things first, grab your super-firm tofu—make sure it’s the kind packed without water for the best texture. Pat it dry thoroughly to help it crisp up nicely. Cut it into triangles or any shape that makes you happy. Then mix the cornstarch, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Dunk each tofu piece into this mixture so every side gets that light coating. Heat up the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and gently fry the tofu pieces for about 4 minutes on each side or until they’re perfectly golden and crunchy. Set your crispy tofu aside—you’re about to make the sauce that’ll make this dish unforgettable.

Step 2: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add garlic in the same pan you used for tofu (add a splash more oil if the pan looks dry). Stir frequently as you cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant; this is where the magic starts. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together for about a minute. Next, add the vegetable broth, tomato paste, and cashew cream, stirring until you get a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the chopped spinach and let it wilt gently over five minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary—this sauce is the soul of the Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe, so make it sing!

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh basil along with the vegan Parmesan if you’re using it. Now gently nestle your crispy tofu into the sauce, flipping it carefully so each piece is decadently coated. The tofu will soak up some of that rich sauce while still keeping its crisp edges—a truly delightful texture combo.

How to Serve Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe

A large silver pan contains a creamy orange sauce filled with green spinach leaves and bits of red tomatoes. On top of the sauce, seven golden-brown fried pieces shaped like hunks of chicken are evenly spread across the pan. A woman's hand holds a silver spoon scooping up some sauce with spinach and tomato bits from the middle of the pan. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really elevate your dish, sprinkle extra fresh basil leaves or a light dusting of vegan Parmesan on top just before serving. A quick drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon can add an exciting brightness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish shines served over fluffy white rice or al dente pasta, which soak up the luscious sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, pair it with quinoa or warm crusty bread to sop up every last bit of that flavorful cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Try plating the tofu steaks on a wooden board garnished with microgreens and edible flowers for a stunning look. Or layer the tofu and sauce over grilled polenta slices for an elegant twist that’s sure to impress. No matter how you serve it, the Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe always makes an eye-catching statement at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which can be rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tofu may soften slightly, but the flavors in the sauce only deepen, making reheated portions just as delicious.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but for best texture, freeze the sauce separately from the tofu. Store each in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of vegetable broth or water will help loosen the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the tofu texture to become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream instead of cashew cream?

Absolutely! If you’re not vegan or dairy-free, regular cream works perfectly in this recipe and will still give you that rich, creamy sauce.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes can be a substitute in a pinch, but the concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes really makes a difference. You can also try tomato paste or roasted red peppers for a slightly different twist.

How do I press tofu properly?

Press tofu by wrapping it in paper towels or a clean kitchen towel, then place a heavy object like a cast iron skillet or books on top for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture for the best crispiness.

Is nutritional yeast necessary?

While nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor, you can skip it if you don’t have it. The sauce will still be delicious thanks to the other ingredients.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free vegetable broth and ensure your nutritional yeast is certified gluten-free. Just double-check your seasoning labels.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe. It’s a cozy, flavorful dinner that satisfies cravings and impresses at the same time. Once you try this, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals for weeknights or special occasions. So grab your skillet and let this dish bring a little extra joy to your kitchen!

Marry Me Tofu with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need