Halloumi Tray Bake with Mediterranean Vegetables
This Halloumi tray bake is a simple, vibrant, and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The salty, golden halloumi pairs perfectly with sweet roasted vegetables like peppers, courgettes, and red onions. Drizzled with olive oil, herbs, and a hint of lemon, it’s a wholesome vegetarian dish that’s big on flavor and low on effort.
Preparation & Cooking Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
1 block (225g) Halloumi cheese, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 courgette (zucchini), sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 small aubergine (eggplant), chopped
200g cherry tomatoes
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas mark 6.
2. Prepare Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped vegetables (peppers, courgette, onion, aubergine, and cherry tomatoes) with olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast Vegetables: Spread the vegetables out on a large baking tray in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes or until they start to soften and caramelize.
4. Add Halloumi: Remove the tray from the oven and lay the halloumi slices over the vegetables. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Final Bake: Return the tray to the oven and roast for another 10–12 minutes, or until the halloumi is golden and slightly crisp on top.
6. Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot, either on its own or with couscous, quinoa, or warm flatbread.
Optional Add-ons:
A handful of olives for added Mediterranean flair.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or pesto before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Yes! Try mushrooms, carrots, broccoli, or even sweet potato. Just ensure harder veggies are chopped smaller so they roast evenly.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Halloumi is not vegan, but you can use a vegan cheese substitute or tofu marinated in lemon and herbs.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes, you can roast the vegetables ahead and just reheat with halloumi added when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, the tray bake itself is naturally gluten-free. Just watch any sides or garnishes you serve it with.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Sugars: 8g