Hot Honey Halloumi Pasta
This Hot Honey Halloumi Pasta is a deliciously unique dish that combines crispy, golden halloumi cheese with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, tossed with tender pasta. The salty, chewy halloumi contrasts beautifully with the rich, slightly spicy sauce, making it a perfect sweet-savory comfort meal.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: ~500 kcal
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons olive oil
7 oz halloumi cheese (cubed)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
¼ cup honey
1 teaspoon chili flakes or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon soy sauce (for umami, optional)
For Garnish:
¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
¼ cup grated Parmesan or feta cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
Instruction
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Fry the Halloumi
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed halloumi and cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy.
3. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
1. In the same skillet,put olive oil over low heat.
2. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in honey, lemon juice, and soy sauce, letting the mixture simmer for 1 minute.
Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the hot honey sauce.
2. Stir in the reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, to create a glossy sauce.
3. Return the crispy halloumi to the pan and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
1. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil, Parmesan, and toasted nuts if desired.
2. Drizzle with extra hot honey for more heat and sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 65g
Fats: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sodium: 620mg
Fiber: 4g
Serving Suggestions
Add roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra texture.
Pair with a crisp side salad for a balanced meal.
Use whole wheat pasta for a fiber boost.
Recipe Notes & Variations
Make it extra spicy: Add more chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Swap the cheese: Use paneer or feta if you can’t find halloumi.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
This Hot Honey Halloumi Pasta is a spicy, sweet, and savory delight that’s super easy to make.