Cilantro Lime Seared Tofu

Featured in: Main Dishes

This dish features extra-firm tofu cubed and marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, and spices. It is then seared until crispy and golden, bringing bold flavors and satisfying texture. Served on warm corn or flour tortillas, it is topped with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, avocado, and fresh cilantro leaves. The bright citrus notes paired with smoky paprika create an exciting plant-based meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:09:00 GMT
Crispy cilantro lime seared tofu tacos topped with fresh veggies and zesty lime. Save
Crispy cilantro lime seared tofu tacos topped with fresh veggies and zesty lime. | cheerfulchefs.com

Crispy seared tofu, marinated with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, served in warm tortillas with vibrant toppings. A flavorful, plant-based twist on classic tacos.

I enjoy making these tacos as a fresh and vibrant meal that never fails to impress family and friends with its bold flavors.

Ingredients

  • Tofu: 400 g (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
  • Fresh lime juice: 2 tbsp
  • Lime zest: 1 tbsp
  • Chopped fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp
  • Ground cumin: 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder: 1 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
  • Salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
  • Small corn or flour tortillas: 8
  • Shredded red cabbage: 1 cup
  • Diced tomatoes: 1/2 cup
  • Sliced red onion: 1/4 cup
  • Avocado, sliced: 1
  • Fresh cilantro leaves: 1/4 cup
  • Lime wedges: for serving
  • Optional toppings: Vegan sour cream or plain coconut yogurt, hot sauce or salsa

Instructions

Prepare tofu:
Cut the pressed tofu into 1/2-inch cubes.
Make marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Marinate tofu:
Add tofu cubes to the marinade, toss gently to coat, and let sit for at least 10 minutes (up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).
Cook tofu:
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated tofu pieces in a single layer. Sear for 34 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from heat.
Warm tortillas:
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
Assemble tacos:
Divide cabbage, tomatoes, red onion, and avocado among tortillas. Top with seared tofu, cilantro leaves, and optional toppings as desired.
Serve:
Serve immediately with lime wedges.
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| cheerfulchefs.com

This recipe always brings my family together around the table, enjoying fresh and healthy meals with laughter and joy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the tacos with a crisp Mexican lager or a citrusy sparkling water for a refreshing meal.

Optional Variations

Substitute tofu with tempeh or roasted chickpeas for a different texture and flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Store marinated tofu in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble tacos just before serving to keep tortillas fresh.

Delicious cilantro lime seared tofu tacos nestled in warm tortillas, bursting with flavor. Save
Delicious cilantro lime seared tofu tacos nestled in warm tortillas, bursting with flavor. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy these flavorful tofu tacos fresh for the best taste. They make a delightful plant-based meal anytime.

Cilantro Lime Seared Tofu

Crispy cilantro-lime tofu served with fresh toppings in warm tortillas for a flavorful plant-based meal.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background Mexican-Inspired

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Dairy-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Tofu Marinade

01 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
02 2 tbsp olive oil
03 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
04 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
05 1 tbsp lime zest
06 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
07 1 tsp ground cumin
08 1 tsp garlic powder
09 ½ tsp smoked paprika
10 ½ tsp salt
11 ¼ tsp black pepper

Tacos

01 8 small corn or flour tortillas
02 1 cup shredded red cabbage
03 ½ cup diced tomatoes
04 ¼ cup sliced red onion
05 1 avocado, sliced
06 ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
07 Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Toppings

01 Vegan sour cream or plain coconut yogurt
02 Hot sauce or salsa

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Prepare Tofu: Cut drained tofu into ½-inch cubes.

Step 02

Make Marinade: Whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.

Step 03

Marinate Tofu: Toss tofu cubes gently in the marinade and let rest for at least 10 minutes or up to 1 hour to deepen flavor.

Step 04

Sear Tofu: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place marinated tofu cubes in a single layer and sear 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove from heat.

Step 05

Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.

Step 06

Assemble Tacos: Distribute shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, sliced onion, and avocado evenly among tortillas. Top with seared tofu and fresh cilantro leaves. Add optional toppings if desired.

Step 07

Serve: Serve tacos immediately accompanied by lime wedges.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large nonstick skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains soy from tofu and soy sauce
  • Check tortillas for gluten if using flour variety

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 310
  • Fats: 14 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 33 grams
  • Proteins: 14 grams