Marry Me Halloumi
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 2
Description:
Inspired by the viral “Marry Me Chicken”, this vegetarian twist stars Halloumi cheese—the perfect substitute for meat. Pan-seared until golden and crisp, then simmered in a dreamy garlic, sun-dried tomato, and cream sauce. It’s indulgent, cozy, and ridiculously delicious. Serve it with rice, pasta, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
200g Halloumi, sliced into 1–2 cm thick slabs
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 cup vegetable stock
1/2 cup heavy cream (or double cream)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds depth)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Halloumi
Pat the Halloumi slices dry with paper towels.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add Halloumi and sear each side for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium.
Add garlic and chili flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the vegetable stock and let simmer for 2 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in cream and Parmesan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly.
Combine and Finish:
Return seared Halloumi to the pan and gently spoon sauce over it.
Let simmer for another 2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve hot with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or toasted sourdough.
Serving Suggestions:
Over buttery mashed potatoes
With creamy polent
Alongside a green salad
Paired with roasted garlic bread
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient Amount (approx.)
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 10 g
Sugars 3 g
Fat 38 g
Saturated Fat 22 g
Fiber 1 g
Sodium 900 mg
Note: Values can vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use a dairy-free substitute for Halloumi?
A: Yes! Use plant-based Halloumi alternatives or firm tofu for a vegan version, and substitute dairy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream.
Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
Q: Is it spicy?
A: Only mildly, from chili flakes. You can skip them entirely if you prefer no heat.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A: Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes go great in the sauce.
Q: Why is it called “Marry Me Halloumi”?
A: The flavor is so good, people say it could prompt a marriage proposal—rich, comforting, and impossible not to love!