Creamy Tofu ‘Cheese’ Spread
Diet Category: Vegan • Vegetarian • Plant-Based • Dairy-Free • Gluten-Free* • High-Protein • Mediterranean-Inspired
*Check packaged ingredients such as tahini and sun-dried tomatoes if certified gluten-free products are required.
Introduction
This creamy Tofu ‘Cheese’ Spread is an easy dairy-free spread made with firm tofu, tahini, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice and flavour-packed sun-dried tomatoes. Smooth, savoury and slightly tangy, it's a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional cheese spreads.
Firm tofu provides a creamy base and high-quality plant-based protein, while tahini and extra virgin olive oil add richness and predominantly unsaturated fats. Lemon juice gives the spread its fresh, tangy flavour, and sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated savoury sweetness that brings everything together.
Perfect as a vegan sandwich spread, dairy-free dip, toast topping or plant-based appetiser, this tofu cheese spread can be served with crackers, vegetable sticks, crusty bread, wraps or sandwiches.
Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Firm Tofu
Firm tofu is an excellent source of complete plant-based protein, providing all nine essential amino acids. It also supplies iron, magnesium and phosphorus, while tofu made with calcium salts can be a valuable source of calcium.
Tahini
Tahini is made from ground sesame seeds and provides predominantly unsaturated fats, along with plant-based protein and fibre. It also contributes minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and copper and gives the spread a naturally creamy consistency.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet and is rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid. It also contains naturally occurring polyphenols and vitamin E while adding richness and a silky texture to the spread.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes provide concentrated tomato flavour and naturally occurring carotenoids, including lycopene. They also provide potassium and other micronutrients. Their sodium content can vary depending on how they're prepared and packaged.
Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice provides the tangy flavour that helps create the cheese-like character of the spread. It is naturally rich in vitamin C, which can also help improve the absorption of non-haem iron from plant foods eaten as part of the meal.
Salt
Salt enhances the savoury flavours of the tofu, tahini and sun-dried tomatoes. Because sun-dried tomatoes can already contain significant amounts of sodium, the added salt can be adjusted according to the product used and personal preference.