Mediterranean Tomato Rice with Halloumi
Here’s a full, detailed recipe for a vibrant and satisfying Mediterranean Tomato Rice with Halloumi – a hearty vegetarian dish packed with flavor from herbs, sun-ripened tomatoes, and crispy grilled halloumi cheese.
Required time
Total Time: 40 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Tomato Rice:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
1 ½ cups vegetable broth (or water)
1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin (optional, adds depth)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Zest of ½ lemon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional but refreshing)
For the Halloumi:
1 (8 oz) block of halloumi cheese, sliced into ¼-inch slabs
1 tsp olive oil, for pan-frying
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomato Rice:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, broth, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
7. Turn off heat. Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
8. Stir in lemon zest, parsley, and mint.
2. Cook the Halloumi:
1. While the rice rests, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 tsp olive oil and grill the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
3. Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper.
3. Assemble & Serve:
Spoon the tomato rice onto plates or a serving platter.
Top with warm halloumi slices.
Garnish with extra parsley, mint, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with a green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled eggplant/zucchini.
- Great with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
Variations:
- Add chickpeas or lentils to the rice for extra protein.
- Spice it up with harissa, Aleppo pepper, or chili flakes.
- Use bulgur or orzo instead of rice for a twist.
- Add olives or capers for more Mediterranean brininess.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420
Protein: 16g
Fat: 20g
Carbs: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g