Grilled Tofu Kebabs with Tangy Tahini Sauce

Easy Grilled Tofu Kebabs with Tangy Tahini Sauce – A Vegan Skewer Recipe for Summer BBQs

If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, protein-packed, vegan-friendly grilling recipe, you’re in the right place. These Grilled Tofu Kebabs with Tangy Tahini Sauce are smoky, savory, and satisfyingly creamy—perfect for outdoor cookouts, Meatless Mondays, or a quick plant-based dinner. Whether you’re new to grilling tofu or just looking for an upgrade, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.

Inspiration

This recipe was born out of a love for traditional kebabs and a need for plant-based alternatives that don’t compromise on flavor or texture. Inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, we combined hearty grilled tofu with the richness of tahini, balanced by lemon and garlic. It’s a nod to global flavor traditions with a fresh, modern twist for today’s plant-focused kitchen.

Why You’ll Love It

• Smoky and satisfying: Grilled tofu and veggies deliver that classic BBQ char.
• Quick and easy: Minimal ingredients and prep time make this ideal for weeknights.
• Versatile: Swap in your favorite veggies or sauces without losing the essence.
• Great for gatherings: These skewers make a colorful, crowd-pleasing presentation.

Quick Grocery List

For the Tofu & Marinade

• Extra-firm tofu
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil
• Maple syrup
• Lemon juice
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Ground cumin

For the Vegetables

• Red bell pepper
• Zucchini
• Red onion
• Cherry tomatos
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For the Tangy Tahini Sauce

• Tahini
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Maple syrup
• Salt
• Cold water

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

Prep & Cook Time:
30 minutes prep + 30 minutes marinating + 20 minutes grilling

Equipment Checklist:

• Grill or grill pan
• mixing bowls
• whisk
• knife
• cutting board
• skewers

Dietary Adjustments:

• Gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for gluten-free; chickpea tofu for soy-free

Serving Size:
Serves 4

General Notes

Tofu absorbs flavors best when it’s pressed and marinated thoroughly. Cut your veggies to roughly the same size as your tofu cubes to ensure even grilling. Don’t rush the marination; even 30 minutes makes a big difference in depth of flavor.

Grilled Tofu Kebabs with Tangy Tahini Sauce – High-Protein Vegan Skewers with Vegetables and Creamy Dressing

DifficultyMedium

Servings4 (makes 8 skewers)

Prep time30 minutes

Cook time12 minutes

Total time45 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Tofu & Vegetables:

• 14 oz (400g) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 zucchini sliced into thick half-moons
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 8–10 cherry tomatoes
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Marinade:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tangy Tahini Sauce:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3–4 tbsp cold water, (to thin)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• 1

  Marinate the Tofu

  1. In a bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
  2. Add tofu cubes to a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour marinade over. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to 1 hour for more flavor).
• 2

  Make the Tahini Sauce

  1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, and garlic.
  2. Slowly add water 1 tbsp at a time, whisking until smooth and pourable.
  3. Season with salt to taste. Set aside or refrigerate.
• 3

  Assemble the Kebabs

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Thread tofu, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating pieces for color and variety.
• 4

  Grill the Kebabs

  1. Lightly oil the grill grates.
  2. Grill kebabs for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes until lightly charred on all sides and vegetables are tender.
• 5

  Serve

  1. Arrange grilled kebabs on a platter.
  2. Drizzle with tangy tahini sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of sumac.

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

Nutrition

Calories	340
Carbohydrates	20g
Cholesterol	0mg
Fat	22g
Fiber	6g
Protein	15g
Saturated Fat	3g
Sodium	430mg
Sugar	6g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	18g

Substitutions

• Tofu: Chickpea tofu or tempeh for soy-free versions
• Maple syrup: Use agave or brown sugar
• Vegetables: Try mushrooms or yellow squash

Variations

• Spicy: Add chili flakes or Sriracha to the marinade
• Herby: Mix parsley or cilantro into the tahini sauce
• Middle Eastern Style: Use za’atar or sumac in the marinade

Let’s Get Cooking

• Marinating Pro Tips: Press tofu for at least 15 minutes. Marinate up to 24 hours for best results.
• Grilling Pro Tips: Use metal skewers or soak wooden ones. Rotate every few minutes for even char.
• Tahini Sauce Pro Tips: Add cold water gradually for silky consistency. Use fresh garlic for extra zing.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 315 — Moderate and satisfying, ideal for dinner.
• Carbohydrates: 16g — Mainly from veggies and sauce, making it balanced.
• Cholesterol: 0mg — 100% cholesterol-free and heart-healthy.
• Fat: 23g — From tahini and olive oil; good fats that aid in vitamin absorption.
• Fiber: 5g — Supports digestion and keeps you full.
• Protein: 14g — High for a vegan meal; tofu is a complete protein.
• Saturated Fat: 3g — Within healthy limits; avoid overdoing oils.
• Sodium: 470mg — Can be reduced by using low-sodium soy sauce.
• Sugar: 5g — Naturally from syrup and veggies; no refined sugar.
• Trans Fat: 0g — No unhealthy fats here.
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g — Mainly from tahini and olive oil, great for heart health.

Storing and Reheating

• Tofu & Veggies: Store in airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat skewers in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes.
• Tahini Sauce: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Stir well before using again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

Q: How long can the tofu marinate?
A: Anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours. The longer, the better!

Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! Marinate tofu and chop veggies up to a day ahead.

Q: Is the tahini sauce freezer-friendly?
A: Not ideal. It can separate when thawed. Best made fresh or refrigerated.

Q: Can I use a grill pan indoors?
A: Absolutely. A grill pan on medium-high heat gives great char and flavor.

Engage and Share

If you make these Grilled Tofu Kebabs with Tangy Tahini Sauce, we’d love to see your spin on it! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or tag us on social media. Looking for more tofu recipes – try some of these:

• Sweet Chili Pineapple Tofu with Red Peppers
• Fiery Szechuan Pepper Tofu
• Grilled Argentine Chimichurri Tofu Steaks
• Grilled Argentine Chimichurri Tofu Steaks