Here’s a complete recipe for a vibrant, balanced, and crowd-pleasing Halloumi, Pomegranate & Rocket Salad — a true Mediterranean favorite with a modern twist.
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Halloumi, Pomegranate & Rocket Salad
Description:
This simple yet elegant salad features crispy pan-seared halloumi cheese, peppery rocket (arugula), and sweet-tart pomegranate seeds, brought together with a zesty lemon-honey dressing. It’s a perfect combination of creamy, salty, tangy, and fresh — ideal for brunch, lunch, or a beautiful starter.
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Time Breakdown:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Servings: 2–3 (main), 4 (side)
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Ingredients:
For the Salad:
100g (about 3.5 oz) rocket (arugula)
200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch slabs
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup walnuts or pistachios, lightly toasted (optional)
A handful of fresh mint or parsley (optional)
For the Lemon-Honey Dressing:
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for balance)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust to your liking — it should be tangy with a hint of sweetness.
2. Cook the Halloumi:
1. Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced halloumi directly to the dry pan (no oil needed, but you can add a drizzle for color).
3. Sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and let cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Salad:
1. In a large bowl or platter, lay down the rocket.
2. Scatter the pomegranate seeds and toasted nuts.
3. Add the warm halloumi slices on top.
4. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
5. Finish with chopped fresh herbs if using.
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Notes & Tips:
Best served warm: Serve the halloumi straight off the pan while it’s hot and crisp.
Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, lentils, or roasted sweet potato.
Nut-free option: Skip the nuts or use roasted chickpeas for crunch.
No rocket? Baby spinach or mixed greens also work well.
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❓ FAQs:
Q: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
A: Prep all components ahead, but cook the halloumi and dress the salad just before serving for best texture.
Q: What does halloumi taste like?
A: Halloumi is a firm, salty cheese that gets beautifully crisp on the outside while staying soft inside when cooked.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes — naturally gluten-free as long as you check your halloumi brand.
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Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~320 kcal
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 12 g
Fat 24 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium ~700 mg
Based on 4 servings and may
vary by brand and add-ins.
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Would you like this adapted into a wrap, a grain bowl, or turned into finger food skewers for a party?