Mediterranean Halloumi Pasta Bowls
Description:
A vibrant and wholesome dish packed with Mediterranean flavors! Golden-fried halloumi cubes are tossed with pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and red onion, then drizzled with a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this pasta bowl is satisfying and protein-rich without needing meat.
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Bowl:
250g (9 oz) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
225g (8 oz) halloumi cheese, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
⅓ cup kalamata olives, sliced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 cup baby spinach or arugula
For the Lemon-Oregano Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp dried oregano
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Fry the Halloumi:
Pat halloumi cubes dry with a paper towel. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Fry the halloumi for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls:
In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and spinach (if using). Drizzle over the dressing and mix well.
Add Halloumi and Serve:
Divide into serving bowls, top with warm crispy halloumi cubes, and garnish with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 490 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fat 27 g
Saturated Fat 10 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 4 g
Sodium 880 mg
Calcium 30% of RDI
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on brand and portion sizes.
FAQ (Q&A Section)
Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety like rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
Q2: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: You can prep the pasta and veggies ahead, but for best texture, fry halloumi fresh before serving.
Q3: Is this dish served warm or cold?
A: It can be enjoyed either way! It’s delicious warm or as a cold pasta salad.
Q4: Can I substitute the halloumi?
A: Yes. Try grilled tofu, feta (uncooked), or pan-fried paneer for similar texture or flavor.
Q5: What protein options can I add?
A: You could add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna if you’d like extra
protein.