Step 1

Make the tofu first. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees(F).

Step 2

Once the tofu has been drained and pressed, cut the block through the side into rectangles. Then cut those into triangles. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3

Take three medium sized mixing bowls, in the first one whisk together the non-dairy milk and the Dijon. In the second one, whisk together the flour and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. In the third bowl, whisk together the panko and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.

Step 4

Take one triangle of tofu, dip in the milk/Dijon mixture, then put in the flour mixture and coat completely, then back in the milk, making sure to get it all wet, back in the flour, back in the milk, then into the panko mixture. Press the panko onto the tofu making sure the whole piece is coated. Repeat with all the tofu.

Step 5

Place each piece of tofu onto a sheet pan sprayed with non-stick spray or with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Spray the tops of the tofu with non-stick spray or brush with a little olive oil.

Step 6

Bake for 15 minutes, flip the tofu, spray or brush with more oil. Bake for another 15 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy.

Step 7

While the tofu bakes, make the pasta.

Step 8

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil on medium high. Then add the garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.

Step 9

Add the non-dairy milk and vegetable broth. Whisk to combine.

Step 10

Bring to a simmer, and then reduce heat to medium low.

Step 11

Add the pasta and stir. Making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Simmer the pasta, stirring frequently for 15-18 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. The liquid will start to absorb, just make sure the pasta is as submerged as possible.

Step 12

Add the vegan Parmesan and Cajun seasoning. If the pasta seems a little dry add a splash more milk. Stir to combine and continue until the vegan Parmesan has melted as much as possible.

Step 13

Add the lemon if using and then taste and adjust seasoning. My Cajun seasoning is pretty salty, so I didn't need salt and pepper, but you may.

Step 14

Serve the pasta with some tofu on top and chives if desired.