Halloumi and Butter Bean Bake

Description

Halloumi and Butter Bean Bake

This vegetarian dish is a versatile and hearty option that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Originating from Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, it features robust flavors from halloumi, butter beans, and roasted red peppers. Serve with crisp sourdough for a complete meal ready in under 30 minutes!

1 tbsp olive oil
1 red onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili flakes
1 tsp oregano
1 jar (400g) roasted red peppers, sliced
2 tins (800g) chopped tomatoes
1 jar (600g) butter beans, drained
1 packet (225g) halloumi, sliced
2 large handfuls fresh spinach

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe pan over medium heat. Sauté onion for 8 minutes.
3. Add garlic, paprika, chili flakes, and oregano; cook briefly.
4. Stir in peppers and tomatoes; simmer for a few minutes.
5. Mix in butter beans and top with halloumi slices.
6. Bake for 20 minutes.
7. Stir in spinach and let it wilt before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: ~350 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and ensuring you have a large, oven-safe pan or skillet.

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the pan over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for a full 8 minutes until soft and beginning to caramelize.
2. Add the minced garlic, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp chili flakes, and 1 tsp oregano. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Pour in the sliced roasted red peppers and the two tins of chopped tomatoes. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Gently fold in the drained butter beans. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the halloumi slices in a single layer over the top of the bean and tomato mixture.
6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until the halloumi is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
7. Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Add the two large handfuls of fresh spinach, stirring it into the hot bake until just wilted. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This bake is a complete meal but can be easily elevated. Serve it directly from the pan with crusty sourdough bread to mop up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent filling for warm pita bread or a topping for cooked grains like couscous or quinoa.

How-to Summary

Sauté onion, then garlic and spices. Add peppers and tomatoes, simmer. Mix in beans, top with halloumi, and bake for 20 minutes. Finish by wilting spinach in the residual heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the tomato and bean base up to 2 days ahead. Store it covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the base, top with halloumi, and bake as directed.

What can I use instead of halloumi? For a similar texture, try slices of firm tofu or paneer. For a non-vegetarian twist, seasoned chicken breasts or chorizo slices work well.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a covered pan on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Are butter beans the same as lima beans? Yes, they are very similar. In this recipe, you can use canned lima beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas as a direct substitute.

My halloumi isn’t browning in the oven. What’s wrong? Ensure your oven is fully preheated and you are using the middle rack. For extra browning, you can switch the oven to broil/grill for the final 2-3 minutes, watching closely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not sautéing the onions long enough: This builds a crucial flavor base. Cook them until soft and sweet.
• Adding raw spinach before baking: This will cause it to overcook and become slimy. Always stir it in at the end.
• Using a pan that isn’t oven-safe: Always check your pan’s handle and materials are rated for oven use to avoid damage or injury.
• Over-salting the sauce: Halloumi is very salty, so season the tomato base lightly and adjust after baking.

Conclusion

This Halloumi and Butter Bean Bake is the ultimate proof that a delicious, satisfying meal doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With its bold Mediterranean flavors, hearty beans, and golden, salty cheese, it’s a versatile dish perfect for any night of the week. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a flawless vegetarian centerpiece that will quickly become a household favorite.