Description
Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi Delight
Who knew fried halloumi could turn an ordinary weeknight dinner into an unforgettable feast? This dish combines crispy chickpeas, wilted greens, and garlicky yogurt for a flavorful adventure. Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, this recipe replaces lamb with the delightfully cheesy halloumi, creating a veggie-friendly, one-pan meal that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner that will impress even the pickiest eaters!
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste
1 lb halloumi, sliced
1 bunch Swiss chard
6 tbsp olive oil
4 cups cooked chickpeas
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Directions:
1. Mix yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Fry halloumi, then cook chickpeas with spices.
3. Sauté chard, mix all, and top with yogurt.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 400 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 grated garlic clove, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Cook the Halloumi: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the halloumi slices dry and add them to the skillet. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Crisp the Chickpeas: In the same skillet, add 2 more tbsp olive oil. Add the cooked chickpeas, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp cumin seeds, and 1 tsp red pepper flakes. Season with salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are crispy and the spices are fragrant.
4. Wilt the Greens: Push the chickpeas to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tbsp oil and the Swiss chard (stems removed, leaves roughly chopped). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Toss everything in the skillet together.
5. Assemble: Spread the garlic yogurt on a serving platter. Top with the chickpea and chard mixture. Arrange the fried halloumi slices on top. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty main course. For a complete meal, pair it with warm pita bread or flatbread to scoop up the yogurt and chickpeas. A side of sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion dressed with lemon juice makes a refreshing accompaniment. It also works wonderfully as a shareable centerpiece for a mezze-style dinner.
How-to Summary
This one-pan meal involves making a zesty garlic yogurt sauce, pan-frying halloumi until golden, crisping spiced chickpeas in the same pan, and quickly wilting Swiss chard. All components are then layered together for a flavorful, textural dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different green instead of Swiss chard? Yes, kale, spinach, or even broccoli rabe are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the heartiness of the green.
How do I prevent the halloumi from becoming rubbery? Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the cheese, and do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary, and serve immediately after cooking.
Can I make any part of this recipe ahead of time? The garlic yogurt can be made a day in advance. The chickpeas and halloumi are best cooked fresh to maintain their optimal crispy texture.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to halloumi? For a vegan version, substitute extra-firm, pressed tofu or a store-bought vegan halloumi. The cooking method remains the same.
My chickpeas aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong? Ensure the chickpeas are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Also, avoid stirring them too frequently in the pan; let them sit in the hot oil to develop a crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the halloumi slices before frying, which causes splattering and prevents a good sear.
- Overcrowding the skillet when frying the halloumi, leading to steaming instead of crisping.
- Using canned chickpeas without draining, rinsing, and patting them completely dry.
- Adding the minced garlic to the skillet at the same time as the cumin seeds, which can cause the garlic to burn. Add it 30 seconds after the seeds.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi Delight is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. With its perfect balance of creamy yogurt, salty cheese, crispy legumes, and vibrant greens, it’s a satisfying, flavor-packed dish that simplifies weeknight cooking without compromising on taste. Give this recipe a try for a dinner that is sure to become a regular in your rotation.