Description
Halloumi Tray Bake with Chickpeas & Veggies
This easy, delicious halloumi tray bake brings together vibrant Mediterranean vegetables, spicy harissa, and creamy halloumi cheese in a single roasting tray. Inspired by North African flavors and topped with za’atar, it’s a simple dish perfect for a hearty vegetarian meal. Just mix, bake, and serve!
400g Chickpeas
225g Halloumi Cheese
225g Mini Peppers
200g Mini San Marzano Tomatoes
150g Courgette (Zucchini)
200g Red Onion
3 Tbsp Rose Harissa Paste
1 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
20g Honey
½ Tbsp Za’atar
1 Tsp Coarse Sea Salt
Fresh Coriander (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Prep ingredients and mix everything in a bowl.
2. Spread on a tray, bake at 200°C (390°F) for 30 mins.
Prep Time: 15 min
Kcal: 782 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the vegetables: Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Halve the mini peppers, quarter the courgette (zucchini) lengthwise and slice into 2cm chunks. Cut the red onion into wedges. Leave the mini tomatoes whole.
- Cut the halloumi block into roughly 2cm cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rose harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and honey to create the marinade.
- Add all the prepared vegetables, chickpeas, and halloumi cubes to the bowl. Sprinkle with the coarse sea salt. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss everything thoroughly until evenly coated in the harissa mixture.
- Tip the entire contents of the bowl onto your prepared baking sheet, spreading everything out into a single, even layer. This ensures proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and charred at the edges, and the halloumi is golden.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the za’atar over the hot tray bake. Garnish generously with fresh coriander before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile tray bake can be the centerpiece of various meals. For a light dinner, serve it directly from the tray with warm pita bread or flatbreads for scooping. To make it more substantial, spoon it over a bed of fluffy couscous, quinoa, or a simple lemon-herb rice. A dollop of cool Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side beautifully balances the harissa’s spice. It also makes an excellent, impressive brunch dish served with poached eggs.
How-to Summary
Chop vegetables and halloumi. Whisk harissa, oil, lemon, and honey. Toss everything together, spread on a tray, and bake at 200°C for 30 minutes. Finish with za’atar and fresh coriander.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can chop the vegetables and mix the marinade a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge and combine just before baking for the best texture.
What can I use instead of halloumi? For a vegan version, use extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed) or a plant-based halloumi alternative. The baking time may vary slightly.
My halloumi is releasing liquid. Is that okay? Yes, this is normal. Some halloumi brands have a higher moisture content. It will evaporate in the oven’s heat.
How can I adjust the spice level? Control the heat by using mild or hot harissa paste according to your preference. You can also start with less and add more to the marinade.
Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely. Sweet potato, aubergine (eggplant), or broccoli florets are excellent additions. Adjust roasting times for denser veggies by adding them to the tray first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Spreading ingredients in a single layer is crucial. Overcrowding steams the vegetables instead of roasting them.
- Using a Small Bowl: Mixing in a bowl too small prevents even coating. Use the largest bowl you have for the best toss.
- Skipping the Za’atar Garnish: The za’atar is added after baking. Adding it before will burn the delicate herbs. It provides a vital final flavor layer.
- Underseasoning: The salt is key against the rich cheese and sweet honey. Don’t reduce it without tasting after cooking.
Conclusion
This Halloumi Tray Bake is the ultimate proof that minimal effort can yield maximum flavor. By combining vibrant veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and salty halloumi with a bold harissa marinade, you create a satisfying, one-pan vegetarian feast that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. It’s a reliably delicious recipe that celebrates simple, bold ingredients and is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.