I knew from the minute that I saw this Pumpkin Seed Crusted Tilapia recipe that I wanted to try it with tofu.



Toasted Pumpkin Seed & Parmesan Crusted Tofu (adapted from Jane Deere)
1 container, extra firm tofu drained and cut into triangles1 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted1cup grated Parmesan 4 Tbsp butter, softened4 cloves fresh garlic1/2 cup fresh parsleySalt & pepper 1 lemon, cut into wedgesOlive oil4 Tbsp mayonnaise (I know)
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a food processor combine toasted pumpkin seeds, parmesan, garlic, parsley, butter, salt and pepper until evenly chopped (about the texture of jarred chopped garlic). Using a knife, coat all sides of eat triangle of tofu with mayonnaise (if you hate mayo, maybe try greek yogurt?). Using your hands, cover each triangle with a layer of pumpkin/parm mixture on all sides. It will be messy and not perfect. Coat a baking sheet with some olive oil and place each triangle on the sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until coating browns. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes. Use a spatula to remove from pan. Serve hot with a wedge of lemon.
Growing up in the Northwest, fish was a fairly big part of my diet. We went fishing every summer at La Push (before Twilight took over) and caught King Salmon in the Pacific. Some of my best memories were out there on the boat with Grandpa Jack, trying to return to the cabin with bragging rights on the biggest fish caught that day. Although I never quite acquired a taste for it, seafood is always the first thing I think about when I have doubts about being a vegetarian – perhaps cause it reminds me of home.
Anyway, the point is to keep in mind that when you see recipes with a meat or fish protein, don’t be afraid to adapt. This was incredible with tofu! And there’s always meatless meatloaf or a veggie BLT.
Glad this week is nearly over – I’m helping a super sweet couple, Audra & Chris, get married in Brooklyn this weekend, as well as going on a photo excursion with my friend Corry. Also, I’ll be doing the coloring for the BYOB 2 poster that Emma just drew and sent me! Coming up on October 9th! Email me if you have books to donate early: bethanypickard(at)gmail.comBYOB Bring Your Old BooksA Bookswap & Benefit for Housing WorksSunday, October 9th, 12-6pm$2 donation for entryBring unwanted books to swap/donate!
DJs Ian Michael JacksonSpindlerMore info TBA!