Smokey Tomato and Halloumi Bake
A comforting Mediterranean-style bake made with juicy tomatoes, hearty vegetables, and golden, bubbling halloumi cheese. The smokey paprika and herbs bring depth of flavor, while the halloumi adds a deliciously salty bite. Perfect as a main vegetarian dish or as a side with crusty bread, rice, or couscous.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
2 cans (400g each) chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin (optional for extra depth)
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
250g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven: 200°C (400°F).
2. Cook base: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic, peppers, and zucchini. Cook 5–7 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Make sauce: Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add halloumi: Lay the halloumi slices evenly over the tomato-vegetable mixture.
5. Bake: Place in the oven for 20 minutes, until halloumi is golden and bubbling.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or couscous.
Notes & Tips
You can add chickpeas or lentils to make it more filling.
For a lighter version, use less oil and grill the halloumi separately, then place on top before serving.
Goes well with a fresh cucumber-yogurt salad on the side.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes — prepare the tomato-vegetable base in advance, then add halloumi and bake before serving.
Q: Can I replace halloumi?
Yes — feta or mozzarella can work, but halloumi gives the best texture because it doesn’t melt completely.
Nutritional information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g