Mediterranean Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Halloumi
These Mediterranean-inspired sweet potato rounds combine the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the salty, tangy flavor of halloumi cheese. Drizzled with honey and sprinkled with fresh herbs, they’re an effortless appetizer, side dish, or even a light snack. The contrasting textures—crispy edges, soft centers, and a chewy cheese topping—make every bite satisfying. Simple ingredients deliver complex flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (approximately 24 rounds)
Ingredients
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into ¼-inch thick pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for drizzling)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Optional: pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, toss sweet potato rounds with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
Meanwhile, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and grill halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.
Remove roasted sweet potatoes from the oven and transfer to a serving platter.
Place grilled halloumi slices atop each sweet potato round.
Drizzle honey over the sweet potato and halloumi.
Sprinkle chopped parsley, mint, and lemon zest over the top.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds if desired and serve warm.
Tips
Cut sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform roasting.
Toss sweet potatoes with oil and spices while still slightly damp to help coating stick.
Roast in a single layer to prevent steaming and soggy edges.
Use a sharp knife to slice halloumi easily; soft cheeses can tear when cut thick.
Grill halloumi just until golden; overcooking makes it rubbery.
Flip sweet potatoes halfway to achieve even browning.
Drizzle honey while the rounds are warm to help it soak slightly into the sweet potatoes.
Fresh herbs brighten the dish—add them just before serving.
Optional pomegranate seeds add tartness and visual appeal.
Use a mix of smoked paprika and cumin for a subtle smoky, warm flavor profile.
Variations
Substitute sweet potatoes with roasted butternut squash rounds.
Swap halloumi with feta for a crumblier texture.
Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.
Roast sweet potatoes with garlic powder or minced garlic for extra flavor.
Garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added crunch.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy-sweet finish.
Use rosemary or thyme instead of parsley and mint for an earthy flavor.
Serve over a bed of arugula or baby spinach for a light salad variation.
For a festive touch, add a few roasted cherry tomatoes on top before serving.
Q&A
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, roast sweet potatoes in advance and reheat in the oven before serving, adding halloumi just before serving.
Can I bake halloumi with the sweet potatoes?
It’s possible but grilling separately ensures it stays golden and chewy rather than releasing moisture onto the sweet potatoes.
Can I make this vegan?
Replace halloumi with firm tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
How should leftovers be stored?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
Can I use frozen sweet potato slices?
Fresh is preferable, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry to prevent soggy results.
What is the best honey to use?
Light, floral honey complements the flavors without overpowering them.
Can I add other spices?
Yes, a pinch of coriander, cinnamon, or smoked chili powder works well.
Can this be served cold?
It’s best warm, but can be served at room temperature as an appetizer.
How do I keep halloumi from sticking?
Preheat the pan well and use a nonstick skillet or grill pan.
What can I serve this with?
Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a Mediterranean grain salad.
Nutrition
(Per 3 Rounds with Halloumi, Approximate)
Calories: 200 kcal
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 21 g
Sugar: 5 g
Protein: 7 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey & Halloumi are a simple yet elegant dish showcasing the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while halloumi adds richness and texture. Fresh herbs, honey, and optional pomegranate seeds elevate the dish, making it suitable for weeknight dinners, brunches, or holiday entertaining. The combination of colors, flavors, and textures ensures that these rounds are not only delicious but visually appealing, leaving a lasting impression on any table.