Crispy Halloumi with Tomato and White Bean Description:
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a vibrant, satisfying vegetarian meal that brings together crispy golden halloumi, sautéed cherry tomatoes, and creamy white beans. It’s a protein-rich, wholesome recipe perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. The dish is full of contrasting textures — crunchy, creamy, and juicy — and gets a flavor boost from garlic, lemon, and herbs. Total Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
For the Halloumi:
200g Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick slabs
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Tomato & Bean Mixture:
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
200g cherry tomatoes, halve
1 can (400g) white beans (cannellini or butter beans), drained and rinsed
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Zest of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp fresh thyme or oregano (or ½ tsp dried)
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Halloumi:
Pat halloumi slices dry with paper towels.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Fry the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Cook the Tomato and Beans:
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–5 minutes until soft and blistered.
Stir in white beans, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until warmed through and slightly saucy.
Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the tomato and bean mixture onto plates.
Top with crispy halloumi.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and an optional drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 24 g
Carbohydrates 25 g
Fiber 8 g
Fat 30 g
Saturated Fat 12 g
Sodium 1050 mg
Sugar 5 g
Note: Values may vary depending on the brand of halloumi and beans used.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! While halloumi is ideal because it holds its shape when fried, you can use paneer or grilling cheese as an alternative.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: To make it vegan, substitute the halloumi with pan-fried tofu or a plant-based halloumi alternative.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can make the tomato-bean mixture ahead and reheat it, but fry the halloumi fresh for best texture.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Serve with crusty bread, over couscous, quinoa, or a leafy green salad for a more complete meal.