Tofu ‘Ricotta’ with Tomatoes and Butter Beans

This colorful and nutritious vegan dish combines creamy tofu ‘ricotta’ with juicy cherry tomatoes and butter beans, all served on thick toast and drizzled with a flavorful basil dressing. It’s a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.

Ingredients

For the tofu ‘ricotta’:

  • 200g silken tofu
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the basil dressing:

  • Small handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 3 walnut halves, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the tomato and bean topping:

  • 200g cherry tomatoes
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and chopped
  • 1 x 400g tin of butter beans, drained and rinsed
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

To serve:

  • 2 thick slices of bread (or gluten-free bread)
  • Reserved basil leaves for garnish

Method

  1. Prepare the tofu ‘ricotta’:
    • Whisk together silken tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper in a bowl until it reaches a ricotta-like consistency.
  2. Make the basil dressing:
    • Finely chop most of the basil leaves, reserving some for garnish.
    • Mix chopped basil, finely chopped walnuts, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Cook the tomato and bean topping:
    • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
    • Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until blistered.
    • Reduce heat to medium, add lemon zest, chopped garlic, and butter beans. Season with salt and pepper.
    • Cook for a minute, then gently squash the tomatoes with a fork.
    • Cook for another minute, adding a splash of water if needed.
  4. Assemble the dish:
    • Toast the bread slices.
    • Spread tofu ‘ricotta’ on the toast.
    • Top with the tomato and bean mixture.
    • Drizzle with basil dressing.
    • Garnish with reserved basil leaves and a pinch of pepper.

This vegan bruschetta is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that will satisfy both your taste buds and nutritional needs. With 23g of protein per serving, it’s a perfect way to fuel your day while enjoying a delicious, plant-based meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your vegan repertoire!