Description
Halloumi Pasta
This super speedy Halloumi Pasta recipe is a 15-minute wonder! Originating from a simple idea of combining our love for halloumi and pasta, this dish balances the salty halloumi with a rich tomato passata sauce. Perfect for a quick family dinner, it’s satisfying, flavorful, and packed with veggies like broccoli and cherry tomatoes. Whether you’re pressed for time or just craving something comforting, this is your go-to meal!
2 tbsp Olive oil
450g Halloumi, cut into chunks
300g Pasta (your choice)
1 Onion, finely chopped
3 Cloves Garlic, crushed
300g Broccoli florets
250g Cherry tomatoes
2 tsp Sweet smoked paprika
500g Passata
Salt and pepper
Directions:
1. Heat oil, fry halloumi until golden.
2. Cook pasta, add broccoli in last 5 minutes.
3. Fry onion & garlic, add tomatoes, paprika, passata.
4. Mix pasta with sauce, top with halloumi.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 793
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Ingredients: Cut 450g halloumi into 2cm chunks. Finely chop one onion, crush three garlic cloves, and separate 300g broccoli into small florets. Halve 250g cherry tomatoes.
2. Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 300g of your chosen pasta. For the final 5 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot. Drain both together, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
3. Pan-Fry the Halloumi: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the halloumi chunks and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp. Remove and set aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same pan (add a touch more oil if needed), fry the chopped onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and 2 tsp sweet smoked paprika, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Pour in 500g passata, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Combine: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Serve immediately, topped with the crispy halloumi.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta is a complete meal on its own. For a fresh contrast, serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a vibrant finish. If you enjoy extra heat, offer chili flakes on the side. For a more substantial spread, pair with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
This 15-minute meal involves boiling pasta with broccoli, pan-frying halloumi until golden, and creating a rich tomato and paprika sauce with onions, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Combine the pasta and sauce, then top with the crispy halloumi for a salty, savory, and satisfying dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Halloumi is key for its high melting point, allowing it to fry and stay intact. For a similar texture, try frying blocks of paneer or extra-firm tofu.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan? It is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, use a plant-based halloumi alternative and ensure your pasta is egg-free.
What can I use instead of passata? Canned crushed tomatoes or a simple marinara sauce are excellent substitutes. You may want to adjust seasoning as these can be less concentrated.
Can I prepare any elements ahead? You can chop the vegetables and halloumi in advance. However, for the best texture, fry the halloumi and combine the dish just before serving.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce. Note that the halloumi will soften upon reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying halloumi, as this will steam the cubes instead of creating a crisp crust. Do not overcook the halloumi, as it can become tough. Ensure you salt the pasta water generously, as this is your primary chance to season the pasta itself. Finally, do not skip reserving some pasta water—its starchy content is crucial for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
Conclusion
This Halloumi Pasta recipe is the ultimate solution for a quick, flavorful, and comforting weeknight dinner. By combining crispy, salty halloumi with a vibrant tomato sauce and tender pasta, it delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. Its versatility with vegetables and ease of preparation make it a reliable staple you’ll return to again and again.