Ultimate Greek-Style Grilled Halloumi Rice Bowl with Tzatziki & Garden Veggies
This hearty Mediterranean-inspired rice bowl features perfectly grilled halloumi cheese, a base of herbed rice, crisp garden vegetables, and a generous dollop of cool tzatziki sauce.
⏱️ Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredient
For the Halloumi
200–250 g halloumi cheese, sliced ½-inch thick
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Freshly cracked pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Herbed Rice Base
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
1 ¾ cups water or vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Zest of ½ lemon
For the Garden Veggies
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved
¼ cup roasted red peppers or bell peppers, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
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 fresh dill, chopped
Salt, to taste
Optional Garnishes
Crumbled feta
Fresh mint or parsley
Extra drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
1. Rinse rice and add to a saucepan with water (or broth), olive oil, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer 12–15 minutes until tender.
3. Fluff with a fork and stir in lemon zest and herbs.
Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki
1. Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt.
2. Chill for at least 10 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
Step 3: Make the Garden Veggie Mix
1. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and roasted peppers.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.
Step 4: Grill the Halloumi
1. Heat a non-stick grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Brush halloumi slices with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, paprika, and pepper.
3. Grill for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and lightly charred.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over just before removing from heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
1. Add a scoop of herbed rice to each bowl.
2. Top with grilled halloumi slices.
3. Add generous spoonfuls of garden veggies.
4. Dollop with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle feta or herbs if desired.
5. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon for a bright finish.
Notes & Tips
Don’t overcook halloumi: It should be golden and soft, not rubbery.
Add greens: Toss in arugula or spinach for freshness.
Add a protein option: For a non-vegetarian version, grilled chicken or shrimp works great.
Meal prep tip: Keep components separate and assemble before serving.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use another cheese instead of halloumi?
Halloumi is best because it grills beautifully without melting, but paneer or firm feta also work.
Q: How long does tzatziki last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
Yes — use vegan halloumi or marinated tofu and coconut yogurt for tzatziki.
Nutrition facts
Calories: ~540 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 4g