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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!