.svg)
Sign Up for new Healthy Recipes
Introduction
The combination of roasted vegetables and halloumi cheese represents a beautiful marriage of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Halloumi, originally from Cyprus, has been graced the tables of Mediterranean households for centuries, prized for its unique ability to maintain its shape while grilling. This warm salad emerged from the modern health food movement's embrace of traditional Mediterranean ingredients, combining them in a contemporary way that celebrates both nutrition and flavor. It's particularly popular during summer months when farmers' markets overflow with fresh vegetables, though it's equally comforting served warm during cooler seasons.
Ingredients
• 2 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for roasting vegetables
• 14 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for grilling halloumi
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for dressing
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Step 1:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper on a large rimmed baking sheet.
Step 2:
Roast vegetables for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 3:
While vegetables roast, whisk together lemon juice, honey, and 3 tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl. Season with remaining salt and pepper.
Step 4:
Pat halloumi slices dry with paper towels. Heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Brush halloumi with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Step 5:
Grill halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown with distinct grill marks.
Step 6:
Arrange roasted vegetables on a serving platter, top with grilled halloumi, and drizzle with honey-lemon dressing. Scatter fresh mint and basil over the top.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Vegetables can be roasted ahead and served at room temperature. Grill halloumi just before serving for best texture.
Q: Why is my halloumi not browning well?
A: Ensure the cheese is patted very dry and the pan is hot enough before grilling.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute halloumi with grilled firm tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
• Halloumi can be substituted with bread cheese or grilling cheese.
• For best results, pat halloumi dry before grilling.
• Vegetables can be roasted ahead and served at room temperature.
• Contains dairy; suitable for vegetarians.
• For a vegan version, substitute halloumi with grilled firm tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Choose firm zucchini and colorful bell peppers for best presentation.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a main course or side dish. Best enjoyed immediately while the halloumi is still warm and slightly crispy.
Store leftover vegetables and halloumi separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat halloumi in a skillet before serving.
Start roasting vegetables first, then prepare the dressing and grill the halloumi while vegetables are in the oven.
- Pat halloumi very dry before grilling to achieve better browning
- Don't overcrowd the roasting pan to ensure vegetables caramelize properly
- Cut vegetables in similar sizes for even cooking
Replace vegetables with seasonal alternatives like eggplant and cherry tomatoes in summer, or butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in winter. For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Serve with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc. Pairs well with warm pita bread or crusty sourdough.
Best in summer when zucchini and bell peppers are in season, but can be made year-round.
Contains dairy (halloumi cheese). Free from gluten, nuts, eggs, and soy.
