Name: Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 47 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 block super firm tofu or extra-firm tofu, pressed; ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Pita bread; Hummus; Vegan tzatziki sauce; Cucumber, sliced; Red onion, sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 32 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, hearty meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors but remains completely plant-based, this Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It takes firm, perfectly marinated tofu, grills it to juicy tenderness, and pairs it with cool, creamy vegan tzatziki and fresh veggies all wrapped in warm pita bread. This dish delivers on all fronts — texture, taste, and that satisfying feeling of a well-rounded, colorful meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white oval plate holds about twenty rectangular pieces of tofu covered in a thick reddish-brown sauce with visible herbs and spices. The tofu blocks are arranged in a slightly overlapping layer across the whole plate, with the sauce pooling lightly beneath and clinging unevenly to the tofu surfaces, giving a textured look. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the shiny, sticky quality of the sauce on the tofu, making the colors rich and vibrant. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe is simple yet essential, creating a beautifully balanced dish with layers of flavor and texture. Together, they work their magic — from the zesty lemon and aromatic herbs to the creamy sauces and fresh vegetables.

Super firm tofu: The star protein that soaks up the marinade and grills up beautifully firm but tender.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the tofu juicy during grilling.
Lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with citrusy zing, enhancing every bite.
Garlic (minced): Brings robust flavor, essential for that classic souvlaki taste.
Dried oregano: The herb that gives souvlaki its unmistakable Mediterranean character.
Paprika: Adds warmth and a touch of smoky depth without overpowering.
Garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor with a smooth, mellow touch.
Dried thyme: Contributes herbal complexity that complements the oregano.
Ground cumin: Infuses an earthy note to balance the bright citrus and herbs.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to round out all the flavors perfectly.
Pita bread: Soft, pliable, and warm, the perfect vehicle for all the delicious fillings.
Hummus: Adds creamy texture and a nutty flavor base in the pita.
Vegan tzatziki sauce: Creamy cucumber sauce that refreshes and balances the grilled tofu.
Cucumber (sliced): Crisp and cool, enhancing the fresh flavors in every bite.
Red onion (sliced): Provides a sharp, tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauces.

How to Make Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Press the Tofu

Before diving into the marinade, pressing your tofu is a game-changer. If you don’t use super firm tofu, wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel and place something weighty, like a plate or can, on top for 15-30 minutes. This gets rid of excess moisture so the tofu soaks up the marinade better and crisps up nicely on the grill or pan.

Step 2: Slice and Season

Once pressed, slice your tofu into cubes or long strips—whichever you prefer for souvlaki skewers. Then mix all your dry spices into a bowl—dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. This blend gives the tofu that unmistakable, herbaceous Greek flavor.

Step 3: Marinate the Tofu

In a large bowl, combine your tofu with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and the spice mixture. Toss everything together so each piece is luxuriously coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for optimal flavor, overnight. This step infuses your tofu with layers of fragrant, tangy goodness.

Step 4: Grill the Tofu

Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Thread tofu pieces onto skewers to mimic classic souvlaki. Grill or pan-fry the tofu skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully, until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown char and are cooked through but still juicy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Vegan Souvlaki

Warm your pita bread gently so it’s soft and pliable. Spread a generous layer of hummus inside the pita, followed by the creamy vegan tzatziki. Add the grilled tofu skewers, then top with freshly sliced cucumber and red onion for crunch and freshness. Fold it all together, and you’re ready to savor a mouthwatering, homemade Mediterranean feast.

How to Serve Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe

Four skewers of tofu are laid flat inside a black cast iron pan, each skewer holding three rectangular pieces. The tofu pieces have a bright orange color with dark brown char marks and spice flakes scattered on the surface, giving a textured and roasted look. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of extra dried oregano on top can elevate this Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe. A wedge of lemon on the side lets you squeeze even more citrusy brightness with every bite. These little touches make your serving look festive and add bursts of fresh herbal and tangy notes.

Side Dishes

Serve your souvlaki with classic Mediterranean sides to complete the experience. Think fluffy couscous salad, grilled vegetables, or a simple Greek salad with tomatoes, olives, and red onions. Crispy roasted potatoes with oregano and garlic also pair beautifully, making the meal hearty and satisfying without complicating prep.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond traditional pita, why not get creative? Use large lettuce leaves as a gluten-free wrap alternative, or serve the grilled tofu cubes atop a bed of herbed quinoa or rice pilaf. Another fun idea is to serve all the components deconstructed on a platter so everyone can build their own souvlaki wraps, making it interactive and perfect for casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled tofu souvlaki can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the grilled tofu, pita, and tzatziki separate if possible to maintain fresh textures and flavors. This way, your next meal stays just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

The tofu skewers freeze well if you want to plan ahead. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the fresh vegetables or pita, since they lose their texture when thawed. Reheat the tofu thoroughly before assembling your souvlaki.

Reheating

For best results, reheat tofu skewers gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through and lightly crisped again. Microwave works too, but can make the tofu a little softer. Rewarm your pita briefly and add fresh cucumber, red onion, hummus, and tzatziki right before serving for that fresh, vibrant bite.

FAQs

Can I use other plant-based proteins instead of tofu?

Absolutely! Tempeh, seitan, or even large mushroom caps can work wonderfully in this Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe. Just adjust grilling time as needed since different proteins vary in cooking speed and texture.

How do I make vegan tzatziki?

Vegan tzatziki can easily be made using plant-based yogurt as a creamy base, combined with grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and a bit of olive oil. It’s super fresh and light, perfect for this dish.

Is pressing the tofu really necessary?

Pressing tofu isn’t required, but it makes a huge difference. Removing excess water helps the tofu soak up the marinade better and ensures it crisps up more nicely on the grill or pan, resulting in better texture and flavor.

Can I prepare the marinade and tofu ahead of time?

Yes! Marinating the tofu overnight intensifies the flavor beautifully. Just cover and refrigerate the marinated tofu for up to 24 hours before grilling. It’s a great way to make your cooking day easier.

What’s the best way to cook tofu if I don’t have a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan works perfectly. Use medium-high heat and cook the tofu for several minutes on each side until golden and slightly charred. A grill pan with ridges is also a great alternative to mimic grill marks.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful vegan take on a Mediterranean classic, this Vegan Souvlaki with Grilled Tofu and Tzatziki Recipe is an absolute winner. It blends juicy, herbed tofu with cool, creamy sauces and crisp veggies in a way that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Give it a try—you’ll likely find it popping into your meal rotation again and again for easy, feel-good dinners filled with vibrant tastes and textures.