Halloumi with Red Peppers

Cypriot Halloumi with Red Peppers Recipe

Region / culture: Cyprus | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Halloumi with Red Peppers is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the salty goodness of Halloumi cheese with the sweetness of red peppers. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Halloumi cheese originated in Cyprus and has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The combination of Halloumi with red peppers is a popular dish in many Mediterranean countries, where the flavors of the cheese and peppers complement each other perfectly.

Ingredients

4 tbsp olive oil
8 slices Halloumi cheese, 1 cm (0.5") thick
4 large peppers, cored, de-seeded, and cut into 2 cm (0.75") strips
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
16 black olives, stoned and drained
1 tbsp each of chopped fresh mint and chopped flat-leaf parsley
salt and freshly ground pepper
For the dressing:
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
0.25 tsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander leaves
0.5 small red chilli, de-seeded and finely chopped

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large pan and gently fry the Halloumi until it turns golden and the peppers have softened. Add the garlic, capers, and herbs, and fry for 1–2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the Halloumi and red peppers.
Serve warm with hot pitta or fresh crusty bread.

Variations

Add some cherry tomatoes or zucchini to the dish for extra flavor and color.
Try grilling the Halloumi cheese instead of frying it for a smoky flavor.
Use different herbs and spices in the dressing to customize the flavor to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the Halloumi cheese until it is golden brown for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the red peppers, as they should be soft but still have a bit of crunch.

- The dressing adds a tangy and spicy kick to the dish, so adjust the amount of chili according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Halloumi with Red Peppers can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish to grilled meats or fish. It pairs well with crusty bread or pita.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the Halloumi cheese and peppers in olive oil helps to bring out their flavors and create a delicious caramelized crust on the cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Halloumi cheese, you can substitute it with another firm, salty cheese like feta or paneer. You can also use different colored peppers for a more colorful dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and chop the peppers ahead of time to save time when cooking. The Halloumi cheese is best cooked fresh for the best texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Halloumi with Red Peppers on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It also goes well with a side of hummus or tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Halloumi with Red Peppers contains approximately 350 calories, making it a moderate calorie meal option.

Carbohydrates

Halloumi with Red Peppers is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the peppers and dressing.

Fats

This dish is high in healthy fats from the olive oil and Halloumi cheese, which provide essential nutrients and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Proteins

Halloumi cheese is a good source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and filling meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Red peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and other essential nutrients, while Halloumi cheese provides calcium and other minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Halloumi cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Halloumi with Red Peppers is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Halloumi with Red Peppers is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With the salty goodness of Halloumi cheese and the sweetness of red peppers, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Halloumi with Red Peppers. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Athens, Greece. I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, and I loved nothing more than spending hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and flavors.

One day, while I was browsing through the local market, I came across a stall selling the most delicious looking halloumi cheese and vibrant red peppers. The scent of the grilled cheese and peppers wafted through the air, enticing me to try a sample. As soon as I took a bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

I approached the vendor, a kind elderly woman with a warm smile, and asked her for the recipe. She chuckled and said, "Ah, my dear, this recipe has been passed down through generations in my family. I would be happy to teach you how to make it, but you must promise to keep it a secret."

I eagerly agreed, and she invited me to her home the following day to learn the recipe. As soon as I stepped into her cozy kitchen, I was hit with the most delightful aroma of herbs and spices. She handed me an apron and we got to work.

First, we sliced the halloumi cheese into thick strips and marinated them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of oregano. While the cheese soaked up the flavors, we roasted the red peppers over an open flame until they were soft and charred. The smoky aroma filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, we sautéed the peppers with garlic, onions, and a splash of balsamic vinegar until they were caramelized and tender. The sweet and tangy flavors mingled together perfectly, creating a symphony of tastes that danced on my tongue.

Finally, we grilled the marinated halloumi cheese until it was golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. The cheese oozed with a creamy texture that contrasted beautifully with the smoky peppers. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, the elderly woman shared stories of her childhood and the traditions of her family. She spoke of how food has the power to bring people together and create memories that last a lifetime. I listened intently, savoring every bite of the delicious Halloumi with Red Peppers.

From that day on, I made it a point to recreate this dish for my own family and friends. I added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating fresh herbs and spices that I had discovered on my culinary journey. Each time I made it, the dish brought back fond memories of that fateful day at the market and the kind woman who had shared her recipe with me.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing this dish for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the recipes and culinary knowledge that have been passed down to me over the years. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my roots and share a piece of my heritage with those I love.

As I plate the Halloumi with Red Peppers and garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, I can't help but smile at the thought of my grandchildren taking their first bite and falling in love with this dish, just as I did all those years ago. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for every moment spent in the kitchen, creating delicious memories that will last a lifetime.