Mediterranean Bulgur Bowl with Grilled Halloumi, Zucchini & Lemon-Herb Dressing
This hearty, fresh, and satisfying bowl features chewy bulgur wheat, smoky grilled zucchini, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and crispy halloumi cheese — all tied together with a bright lemon-herb dressing. It’s a balanced vegetarian dish full of Mediterranean flair.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15–20 minutes
Total Time 30–35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Bowl:
1 cup bulgur wheat
2 cups hot vegetable broth or water
1 large zucchini, sliced into rounds
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup kalamata olives, sliced
200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Lemon-Herb Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint or dill, chopped
Salt & black pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Bulgur
Place bulgur in a heat-safe bowl.
Pour hot broth or water over it, cover, and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and season with a little olive oil and salt.
2. Grill the Zucchini
Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Grill on a pan or grill for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred and tender. Set aside.
3. Fry the Halloumi
In a nonstick pan over medium-high heat, sear the halloumi slices (no oil needed) for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Dressing
Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl or shake in a jar.
5. Assemble the Bowls
Divide bulgur between bowls.
Top with grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and halloumi.
Drizzle generously with lemon-herb dressing.
Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest if you like!
✅ Tips & Variations
Vegan version: Replace halloumi with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Make it spicy: Add Aleppo pepper or a drizzle of harissa oil.
Add greens: Toss in arugula or baby spinach for more freshness.
🔢 Nutrition Estimate
Calories ~480 kcal
Protein ~20 g
Carbs ~40 g
Fiber ~8 g
Fat ~26 g
Sodium ~600 mg