Mediterranean Grilled Halloumi with Rice, Tzatziki, and Fresh Veggies
This colorful Mediterranean bowl features grilled halloumi — salty, golden, and irresistibly chewy — served with fluffy rice, creamy tzatziki, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables. It’s the ultimate balance of warm and cool, rich and refreshing — a meatless meal that feels indulgent yet light.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Grilled Halloumi:
200–250g halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Rice:
1 cup cooked basmati or jasmine rice
1 tsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
Optional: sprinkle of lemon zest or chopped parsley
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp dried dill or 1 tsp fresh dill
Salt to taste
For the Fresh Veggies:
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, sliced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
½ red bell pepper, diced
1 tbsp chopped parsley or mint
Drizzle of olive oil and squeeze of lemon
Optional Garnishes:
Kalamata olives
Crumbled feta
Extra lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki
1. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt.
2. Mix well and refrigerate until serving (this helps the flavors develop).
Step 2: Cook the Rice
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Fluff with a fork and drizzle with olive oil ,and a touch of lemon zest for aroma.
Step 3: Grill the Halloumi
1. Pat halloumi slices dry with a paper towel.
2. Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Grill halloumi for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and lightly crisp.
5. Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle oregano and black pepper while warm.
Step 4: Toss the Fresh Veggies
1. In a bowl, mix tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and bell pepper.
2. Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs. Toss gently.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
1. Add a base of warm rice.
2. Top with grilled halloumi slices.
3. Add a generous scoop of tzatziki and the fresh veggie salad.
4. Garnish with olives, herbs, and lemon wedges.
Notes & Tips
For a low-carb version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Make it heartier: Add roasted chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
Extra flavor: Drizzle halloumi with a touch of honey or balsamic glaze.
Meal prep tip: Store components separately and assemble before serving to keep halloumi crisp.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: What is halloumi?
Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese from Cyprus, loved for its high melting point that makes it perfect for grilling or frying.
Q: Can I air-fry the halloumi?
Yes — air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway for a crispy texture.
Q: What other sauces pair well?
Besides tzatziki, try lemon tahini sauce or a light yogurt-garlic dressing.
️ Nutritional Information
Calories: ~460 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g