Description
Crispy Chickpeas & Halloumi with Greens
Crispy chickpeas and fried halloumi take center stage in this vibrant dish, paired with wilted greens and a tangy garlicky yogurt sauce. Originally inspired by Alison Roman, this vegetarian adaptation swaps out meat for fried halloumi, giving a unique twist that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. Easy, wholesome, and oh-so-delicious, it’s crispy, creamy, and everything you need for dinner tonight!
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 lb halloumi, sliced
1 large bunch swiss chard
6 tbsp olive oil
4 cups cooked chickpeas
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Directions:
1. Mix yogurt, garlic, lemon, salt, and pepper.
2. Fry halloumi until golden.
3. Sauté chickpeas, spices, and greens. Combine.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 350 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Make the Garlic Yogurt: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 grated garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Halloumi: Pat 1 lb of sliced halloumi dry with a paper towel. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate.
3. Crisp the Chickpeas: In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil. Add 4 cups of cooked chickpeas, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the chickpeas are crispy. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Wilt the Greens: Add the final 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add 1 large bunch of chopped Swiss chard (stems and leaves) and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender. Return the crispy chickpeas to the pan and toss everything to combine.
5. Assemble: Spread the garlic yogurt on the bottom of a serving platter. Top with the sautéed greens and chickpeas. Arrange the fried halloumi slices over the top. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a complete meal on its own. For a heartier option, serve it over a bed of quinoa or couscous to soak up the delicious yogurt sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or naan for scooping. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, creamy elements.
How-to Summary
Create a tangy garlic yogurt sauce. Pan-fry halloumi slices until golden. In the same pan, crisp chickpeas with cumin and red pepper flakes, then sauté Swiss chard until wilted. Assemble by layering the yogurt, greens with chickpeas, and topped with the fried halloumi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different green? Absolutely. Kale, spinach, or even broccoli rabe are excellent substitutes for Swiss chard. Adjust cooking time accordingly for tougher greens.
How do I prevent halloumi from sticking? Ensure your skillet is properly preheated with oil before adding the cheese. Also, pat the halloumi slices very dry and avoid moving them for the first 1-2 minutes to allow a crust to form.
Can I make the yogurt sauce ahead of time? Yes, the garlic yogurt sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; the garlic flavor will intensify.
Are canned chickpeas okay to use? Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly. Be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly, then pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they get crispy.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check your halloumi packaging to confirm no gluten-containing additives were used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the halloumi, as this will steam the cheese instead of creating a crisp crust. Do not skip drying the chickpeas; moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Finally, do not add the minced garlic to the chickpeas too early, as it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chickpeas & Halloumi with Greens is a masterclass in textures and flavors, combining creamy, crispy, and tangy elements into a satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s deceptively simple to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and impressive casual dinners. With the detailed guide and tips provided, you’re equipped to create a restaurant-worthy dish that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.