Summer Tofu Burger

Sometimes, the most nourishing meals are the ones that come together with minimal effort and maximum freshness. This summer tofu veggie burger hits that sweet spot. It’s deeply savory and balanced with cool, crisp vegetables. There’s no flour, no flax egg, no breadcrumbs, just tofu and seasonings.

You can mash the tofu and shape it into patties, or, for an even simpler variation, slice the tofu into thick square patties and season them directly. Either method gives you a firm, satisfying texture with golden, crispy edges when cooked.

Is it messy? Yes, a little because you don’t include any condiments with this burder, only tahini dressing. So, it is messy in the very in the best way. The tahini dressing for this burger is found on this cite and you make it a little thicker than the original dressing. Drizzle just enough to make your burger delicious and lick your fingers (or grab a napkin). The fresh toppings—shredded lettuce, juicy tomato, cucumber, and sprouts—add crunch and contrast, keeping each bite light and bright. This is a burger, you’ll eat over and over again.

Organic tofu is a highly nutritious, plant-based protein made from non-GMO soybeans and is rich in essential nutrients. It provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, and delivers about 10 grams of protein per ½ cup serving with minimal saturated fat and zero cholesterol. Tofu is also a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium, which are key minerals that support bone health, energy production, and muscle function. As a low-glycemic, high-protein food, tofu helps promote satiety, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support healthy weight management. The isoflavones in tofu, naturally occurring phytonutrients in soy, have been studied for their potential to support heart health, hormonal balance, and even cognitive function. Choosing organic tofu ensures the soybeans are free from synthetic pesticides and genetic modification, making it a clean, whole-food option in a plant-based lifestyle. Read more up on Tofu on NutritionFacts.org!

This burger is ideal for summer: no complicated steps, no hard-to-find ingredients. The tofu patties can be pan-fried, oven-fried, or grilled, making them perfect for any weather or occasion. They’re light on the stomach yet filling enough to satisfy, perfect for a backyard meal or a quick weekday supper. Enjoyed in the open air, perhaps alongside sautéed or grilled asparagus or another seasonal vegetable, this meal nourishes the body without weighing down the spirit.

Simple Tofu Veggie Burgers with Creamy Tahini Drizzle

Ingredients

For the Tofu Patties:

1 (14 oz) block firm tofu, drained and pressed
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked or sweet paprika
2 tbsp liquid aminos
black pepper substitute, to taste (optional)
Optional: avocado oil for frying or brushing (about 1 tbsp)
Lemon Tahini Dressing (See recipe but also instructions below for a modified recipe)

Instructions

Prepare the Tofu:

Choose one of these easy methods:

Mash Method: In a medium bowl, crumble the tofu with a fork or your hands. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, liquid aminos, and pepper substitute (if using). Mix thoroughly and shape into 2 or 4 patties, pressing firmly to hold shape.
Slice Method: Slice the pressed tofu into 2 rectangular or 4 thick square slabs. Sprinkle both sides evenly with the seasonings and brush or drizzle with the 2 tbsp of liquid aminos. Let sit for a few minutes to absorb flavor.

Cook the Patties:

Pan-Fry: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp avocado oil (optional), then cook patties for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and lightly crisp.
Oven-Fry: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush patties with avocado oil (optional). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until firm and golden.
Grill: Lightly oil your grill grates or brush patties with avocado oil (optional). Cook over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and heated through.

Make the Tahini Dressing:

Make this recipe: Lemon Tahini Dressing but only use 2/3 cup of water instead of 1 cup. Add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until the dressing reaches your desired thickness.