Press the tofu thoroughly by wrapping it in several layers of paper towels, placing it on a plate, and setting a heavy skillet or cutting board on top. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, changing the paper towels halfway through if they become saturated.

Crumble the pressed tofu into a large bowl using your hands, breaking it into small curds.

Add the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt to the crumbled tofu. If using fresh herbs or black pepper, add them now.

Using a fork or potato masher, mash and stir everything together until well combined with a texture similar to dairy ricotta.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.