Zucchini with Lemon Tofu & Harissa

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

   5 min hands-on

   • Wash the zucchini thoroughly and pat dry.
   • Slice the zucchini into very thin ribbons or rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.

2. Cook the Zucchini

   3 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Heat olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-low heat.
   • Add the zucchini slices and season with salt and black pepper.
   • Grate garlic finely and stir it into the zucchini.
   • Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is very soft but not mushy.

3. Make the Whipped Lemon Tofu

   3 min hands-on

   • Combine firm tofu, lemon flesh, yeast extract spread, miso, molasses, and fresh lemon juice in a blender.
   • Add olive oil for creaminess and blend until smooth and creamy.
   • Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. Set aside.

4. Toast the Pine Nuts

   2 min hands-on

   • Place pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
   • Toast them, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
   • Remove immediately and set aside.

5. Prepare the Harissa Drizzle

   1 min hands-on

   • Whisk together hot sauce, fresh lemon juice, and a splash of olive oil in a small bowl.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

6. Toast the Focaccia

   1 min hands-on2 min waiting

   • Slice the focaccia into desired serving portions.
   • Toast lightly in a dry skillet or under a broiler until crispy and golden.

7. Assemble the Dish

   3 min hands-on

   • Spread the whipped lemon tofu evenly across the base of a serving platter.
   • Layer the cooked zucchini on top in a loose pile.
   • Drizzle the harissa sauce over the zucchini.
   • Add the toasted pine nuts as a garnish.

8. Finish and Serve

   1 min hands-on

   • Drizzle extra olive oil over the entire dish.
   • Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
   • Serve with the toasted focaccia on the side.
   • Cooking tips:
   • Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest tofu texture.
   • Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking zucchini to prevent it from becoming watery.
   • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the harissa drizzle for a more complex flavor.
   • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor contrast.