Halloumi Bowl with Roasted Vegetables and Herbs
Description
This nourishing Halloumi bowl is a Mediterranean-inspired dish loaded with flavor and color. Crispy golden Halloumi slices are paired with a variety of herb-roasted vegetables and served over a bed of grains like quinoa or couscous. Finished with a lemon-herb dressing, it’s satisfying, protein-rich, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Time Required
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2 bowls
Ingredients
For the Bowl:
200g Halloumi cheese, sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small red onion, sliced
1 small eggplant, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 cup cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice (your choice)
A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh herbs (parsley or mint), for garnish
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roast the Vegetables:
Toss zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
Cook the Halloumi:
While veggies roast, heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Cook the Halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls:
Divide cooked quinoa (or your grain of choice) into two bowls. Top with roasted vegetables, Halloumi, cherry tomatoes, and drizzle with the lemon herb dressing.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and an optional squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Approximate values based on quinoa and standard Halloumi)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 7g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14
Sodium: 900mg
Sugar: 8g
Common Questions
Q: Can I use another cheese instead of Halloumi?
A: Halloumi is unique because it doesn’t melt when grilled, but you could substitute with paneer or grilled feta. For a vegan option, try marinated tofu.
Q: What other vegetables work well in this bowl?
A: Sweet potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, or broccoli roast well and add variety. Use any mix of seasonal vegetables.
Q: Is it served hot or cold?
A: It’s best served warm, but it also tastes great at room temperature or cold as a meal-prep option.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes! Roast the vegetables and cook the grains ahead. Just pan-fry Halloumi before serving for best texture.