Description
Halloumi Cheese Salad with Pomegranates
This vibrant Halloumi Cheese Salad is a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, halloumi is a semi-hard cheese that grills to perfection, adding a delightful texture to any dish. This salad features fried halloumi, juicy pomegranate seeds, and a zesty balsamic dressing, making it a refreshing and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and taste.
225g halloumi
¼ tsp chili flakes
1 tbsp honey
30g parsley
2 large tomatoes
1 pomegranate
½ cucumber
4 spring onions
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Fry halloumi with chili flakes and honey until golden.
2. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss vegetables, pomegranate, halloumi, and dressing together.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 288
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the halloumi into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and spring onions. Remove the seeds from the pomegranate. Finely chop the parsley.
2. Cook the Halloumi: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Fry the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. In the last minute, sprinkle the chili flakes and drizzle the honey over the cheese, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tbsp olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, spring onions, pomegranate seeds, and parsley. Add the warm halloumi slices. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a versatile dish. Serve it as a standalone light lunch or as a substantial side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a more complete dinner. For a summer gathering, present it on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece. To make it more filling, add a base of quinoa, couscous, or mixed leafy greens like arugula or spinach.
How-to Summary
Quickly fry honey-chili halloumi until golden. Whisk a simple lemon-balsamic vinaigrette with sesame seeds. Toss the dressing with fresh vegetables, pomegranate seeds, and the warm, crispy halloumi for a vibrant, flavor-packed salad ready in under 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill the halloumi instead of frying it? Absolutely. Grilling on a barbecue or grill pan gives excellent charred marks and flavor. Brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.
How do I easily remove pomegranate seeds? Cut the pomegranate in half horizontally. Hold a half over a bowl, seed-side down, and firmly tap the back with a wooden spoon to release the seeds.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, but only combine and add the halloumi right before serving to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery and the salad from getting soggy.
What can I substitute for halloumi? For a similar grilling quality, try paneer or extra-firm tofu. For a different flavor, crumbled feta cheese can be used (though it won’t be fried).
Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar? Yes, red wine vinegar or a pomegranate molasses would work wonderfully, offering a slightly different but complementary tangy sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the halloumi, as it can turn tough and overly salty. Aim for a golden-brown crust with a slightly soft interior. Do not dress the salad too far in advance; the salt will draw water from the vegetables, making them limp. Ensure your pan is properly heated before adding the cheese to achieve a good sear without sticking.
Conclusion
This Halloumi Cheese Salad with Pomegranates is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of contrasting textures and vibrant flavors. The simplicity of its preparation belies the impressive result, making it an ideal choice for both quick weeknight dinners and occasions where you want to delight your guests. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can consistently create a nutritious, visually stunning, and utterly delicious dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.