Grilled Tofu with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri sauce is one of those simple foods that is just ridiculously delicious. This pairing of a cumin-spiced grilled tofu with chimichurri sauce is a barbecued meal that will have all the omnivores at your vegetarian barbecue sneaking a taste.

Ingredients:

* 2 cups lightly packed chopped parsley
* 4 garlic cloves, halved
* 1 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
* 1/2 tsp chili pepper flakes
* 2 tbsp shallot or onion, minced
* 1/4 cup of vegetable or olive oil
* 3 tbsp sherry wine vinegar or red wine vinegar
* 3 tbsp lemon juice
* 1 tsp granulated garlic
* 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or Hungarian paprika
* 1/2 tsp ground cumin
* 1 pound extra-firm tofu
* Olive oil

Preparation: To prepare the chimichurri sauce, place the parsley, garlic cloves, salt, pepper, chili, shallot or onion, 1/4 cup olive oil, sherry vinegar and lemon juice ingredients in a blender or food processor and pulse until well chopped, but not pureed. Set aside.

To prepare the rub, combine the garlic, paprika and cumin; mix well. Set aside.

Cut the tofu in half lengthwise to make two “steaks” abut 3/4-inch thick. Brush lightly with olive oil. Press the rub into both sides of the tofu steaks.

Place tofu in a grill pan coated with oil or directly on the cooking grate over direct heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Turn the tofu steak with a pair of tongs and a flat spatula if necessary. Sear the second side and continue grilling until done, about 3-5 minutes.

Cut each tofu steak in half to form 2 triangles. Serve topped with chimichurri sauce.