This post may contain affiliate links. Read Simple Veganizer disclosure policy.
This Easy Oil-Free Tofu Feta recipe is a simple, tangy, and nutritious alternative to traditional feta cheese. Made with firm tofu and a flavorful marinade, it’s dairy-free and gluten-free and perfect for adding a savory touch to salads, wraps, and more.
Enjoy all the taste without the oil!
I love tofu’s versatility. It’s one of those ingredients that can be transformed into so many delicious dishes, and it shines as a cheese substitute.
On my blog, I have other recipes where tofu steps in as a “cheese” alternative:
- Vegan Tofu Mozzarella: A stretchy, melty mozzarella alternative, great for pizza.
- Vegan Tofu Cream Cheese: A smooth and creamy spread that’s great on bagels or as a dip.
Now, I needed a Feta recipe, which has always been a favorite of mine. Many commercial vegan feta options are made with oil, which I prefer to avoid when cooking.
Using tofu as a base for homemade feta is amazing. It allows me to enjoy that tangy, savory flavor without the added oils and having the right texture. I hope you like it too!
Tofu is a game-changer in plant-based cooking. I love exploring how it can be used to create healthy, delicious, and oil-free alternatives to my favorite cheeses.
Of course, using tofu to make vegan cheese was not my idea. As a vegan, I was inspired by many recipes and other bloggers all these years, experimenting with tofu and flavor to mimic some food I used to eat. Now, I want to share my recipes with you.
This Easy Oil-Free Tofu Feta will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple, delicious, and good for you—so go ahead and give it a try! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or want to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the tangy, savory goodness in all your favorite dishes!
WHY TOFU IS GREAT
Tofu is a superstar in the plant-based world, and for good reason!
It is a complete protein made from soybeans, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs.
It’s also low in calories, rich in calcium, and a great source of iron.
Tofu is a fantastic alternative to make cheese and other recipes for those who want to reduce their cholesterol intake or avoid dairy.
Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS
The magic of this recipe lies in the marinade.
By combining tangy lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, savory miso, and a splash of brine from green olives, we transform plain tofu into crumbly, flavorful feta, perfect for sprinkling over your favorite dishes.
The warm water helps dissolve the ingredients, ensuring every cube of tofu is infused with deliciousness.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS TOFU FETA
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
To make this Easy Oil-Free Tofu Feta, simply press and cube the tofu, then marinate it in a tangy mixture of lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive brine, and spices.
This recipe is easy and perfect for beginners, requiring minimal prep and common kitchen tools.
That’s a high-level summary; now, let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
To make the TOFU FETA, you’ll need the following kitchen tools and equipment:
- Tofu Press or Heavy Object: You’ll need to press your tofu to remove excess water, which allows it to absorb more of the marinade. Don’t skip that step!
- Mixing Bowl: To whisk together the marinade ingredients.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For cubing the tofu.
- Container with Lid: To marinate the tofu in the fridge.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious chia pudding:
- Tofu: Firm or extra firm. The base of this feta provides a neutral flavor and creamy texture. If you can’t use tofu, try using chickpea tofu (made from chickpea flour) for a soy-free alternative, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
- Lemon Juice: Adds bright acidity, mimicking the tanginess of traditional feta.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances the tang and adds depth of flavor. White or rice vinegar can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
- Warm Water: Helps dissolve the miso paste and other marinade ingredients.
- Brine from Green Olives: Adds a salty, savory note that elevates the feta flavor. You could also use the brine from other pickled vegetables.
- Miso Paste: This is optional but provides a rich umami flavor that deepens the overall taste. If miso paste is unavailable, skip it or use a teaspoon of tamari or soy sauce to provide a different umami flavor.
- Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy, savory flavor.
- Spices and Herbs: Garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil bring out the classic flavors of Mediterranean feta.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this Tofu Feta, follow these steps:
Press the Tofu: Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a towel, place a heavy object on top, and press for about 20 minutes to remove excess water.
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, warm water, olive brine, miso paste (optional), nutritional yeast, and spices.
Cube the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into small cubes to maximize marinade absorption.
Marinate: Place tofu cubes in a container, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Enjoy: Crumble the tofu feta over salads or wraps, or use it as a topping for your favorite dishes.
WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
Well, you will find that it is:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and only a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, low in calories, and free from oil and allergens.
- Versatile: This tofu feta can be used in various dishes, from salads to wraps to grain bowls.
- Delicious: Tangy, savory, and satisfying—this tofu feta delivers all the flavors you love in traditional feta without dairy.
Let’s prepare this recipe!
OTHER VEGAN CHEESES TO TRY!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
OIL-FREE TOFU FETA, EASY RECIPE (NUT-FREE)
Equipment
- 1 Tofu Press
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 Container with Lid
Ingredients
- 14 oz tofu (400g firm or extra firm tofu, pressed)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsp water
- 1/4 cup olive brine (from a jar of green olives)
- 1 Tbsp miso paste (optional, for umami flavor)
- 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Press the Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. You can do this by wrapping the tofu block in a clean towel, placing a heavy object (like a skillet) on top, or using a tofu press. Let it press for at least 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, water, brine from green olives, miso paste, nutritional yeast, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and black pepper. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved and the marinade is well mixed.
- Cube the Tofu: Once it is pressed, cut it into small cubes (about 1/2 inch or 1.25 cm) to resemble feta cheese.
- Marinate the Tofu: Place the cubes in a shallow dish or a container with a lid. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Gently stir or shake the container to coat the tofu evenly with the marinade.
- Marinate: Cover the dish or container and place it in the refrigerator. Let the tofu marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor absorption.
- Serve: After marinating, your tofu feta can be used in salads, wraps, or topping for various dishes. It can be stored in the marinade in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- Pressing the tofu is crucial for this recipe. It removes excess water, allowing the tofu to absorb the marinade fully and achieve the best texture. Skipping this step could result in a softer, less flavorful feta.
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the tofu, the more flavorful it will become. For the best results, marinate overnight or for 48 hours. Give the tofu cubes a gentle stir halfway through the marinating process for even better flavor absorption. This step helps ensure all sides soak up the marinade evenly.
- Miso Paste: While optional, the miso paste adds a deeper umami flavor to the feta. Even without miso, you can still achieve a great taste.
- Olive Brine: The brine from green olives adds a unique, tangy, and slightly salty flavor to the tofu feta. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference or the saltiness of your brine.
- Storage: Store the tofu feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last up to a week, and the flavors may intensify over time.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade, such as thyme, rosemary, or crushed red pepper flakes, to create your preferred flavor profile.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS TOFU FETA
- Greek Salad: Toss with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives for a classic Greek salad.
- Wraps: Add it to a whole-grain wrap with hummus, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of tahini.
- Grain Bowls: Top your favorite grain bowl with tofu feta, roasted veggies, and a squeeze of lemon.
- Pasta: Stir cherry tomatoes, basil, and nutritional yeast into warm pasta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Appetizer Platter: Serve with olives, roasted peppers, and seed crackers for a tasty snack.
1 thought on “OIL-FREE TOFU FETA, EASY RECIPE (NUT-FREE)”