Honey Roasted Cauliflower with Grilled Halloumi and Crunchy Chickpeas
This Honey Roasted Cauliflower with Grilled Halloumi and Crunchy Chickpeas is a vibrant Mediterranean-style meal that combines caramelized cauliflower drizzled with honey, crispy roasted chickpeas, and golden grilled halloumi cheese. It’s hearty enough for a main dish, yet light and fresh — ideal for a balanced, nutritious dinner or lunch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Honey Roasted Cauliflower:
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ tbsp honey
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Crunchy Chickpeas:
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt, to taste
For the Grilled Halloumi:
200g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces
1 tsp olive oil or light cooking spray
For Serving:
Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
A drizzle of extra honey or olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread evenly on the tray and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and caramelized.
Drizzle with lemon juice after removing from the oven.
Step 2: Make the Crunchy Chickpeas
Pat chickpeas dry with a paper towel (the drier, the crispier!).
Toss with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
Spread on another tray and roast alongside the cauliflower for 25–30 minutes, shaking halfway.
They should be golden and crunchy.
Step 3: Grill the Halloumi
Heat a non-stick pan or grill pan over medium heat.
Lightly brush or spray with oil.
Grill halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown with grill marks.
Step 4: Assemble
On a large serving plate, layer roasted cauliflower and crunchy chickpeas.
Top with warm grilled halloumi slices.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or mint.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch more honey or olive oil, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips
Make it spiced: Add a pinch of chili flakes or harissa for a mild kick.
Add freshness: Toss in arugula or spinach leaves before serving.
Meal prep: Everything can be roasted ahead and reheated; grill the halloumi fresh.
Vegan version: Swap halloumi for grilled tofu and honey for maple syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I air-fry the chickpeas?
Yes! Air-fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Q: How do I keep halloumi from getting rubbery?
Don’t overcook — grill just until golden and serve immediately.
Q: Can I add grains?
Absolutely — serve over quinoa, couscous, or farro for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 8g