Why Make This Recipe
Grilled Halloumi Bowl with Tzatziki, Herbed Rice & Mediterranean Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together fresh flavors and textures. This bowl is not only satisfying but also healthy, making it a fantastic choice for lunch or dinner. The grilled halloumi provides a rich, savory taste, while the tzatziki offers a cool and refreshing contrast. With the herbed rice and Mediterranean salad, you get a well-balanced meal packed with nutrients.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi Bowl with Tzatziki, Herbed Rice & Mediterranean Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt & pepper
- 400 g halloumi, cut into 1-cm thick slices
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano or basil, chopped
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, seeded and grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Lemon wedges
- Extra olive oil
- Fresh dill or parsley
Directions:
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Cook the Herbed Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and minced garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the rice and 3 cups of water with a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then cover and lower the heat to simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender. Remove it from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
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Prepare the Tzatziki: Squeeze the grated cucumber in a towel to remove excess water. In a bowl, mix the cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
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Make the Mediterranean Salad: In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, mint, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
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Grill the Halloumi: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and sprinkle on the paprika and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden grill marks appear.
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Assemble the Bowls: Divide the herbed rice among 4 bowls. Top with salad and grilled halloumi slices. Add a generous dollop of tzatziki and finish with lemon wedges and extra olive oil.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi Bowl with Tzatziki, Herbed Rice & Mediterranean Salad
Serve the grilled halloumi bowls warm, allowing each person to mix the components to their liking. Pair the bowls with additional lemon wedges and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi Bowl with Tzatziki, Herbed Rice & Mediterranean Salad
To store leftovers, place the herbed rice, salad, grilled halloumi, and tzatziki in separate airtight containers. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the rice and halloumi as needed, or enjoy them cold!
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi Bowl with Tzatziki, Herbed Rice & Mediterranean Salad
- For added flavor, marinate the halloumi in lemon juice and herbs before grilling.
- If you prefer a spicier tzatziki, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite Mediterranean veggies, like bell peppers or arugula.
Variation
You can switch the halloumi cheese with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option in your bowl. Additionally, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of long-grain rice for a gluten-free or lower-carb choice.
FAQs
1. Can I make the herbed rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the herbed rice a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you are ready to serve.
2. Is halloumi cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, halloumi is a cheese made from sheep’s milk (or a mix of sheep and goat), making it a vegetarian-friendly option.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
While the herbed rice can be frozen, the grilled halloumi and salad won’t freeze well. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.
