Seared Halloumi And Fig Salad
Seared Halloumi And Fig Salad Recipe from Cyprus | Delicious Salad
Introduction
Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the salty goodness of Halloumi cheese with the sweetness of ripe figs. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
History
This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Mediterranean flavors. Halloumi cheese is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, known for its unique texture and ability to hold its shape when cooked. Figs are also a staple in Mediterranean cooking, adding a touch of sweetness to savory dishes.
Ingredients
- 9 oz (255 g) of Halloumi cheese
- 6 ripe figs
- 1 large bag of assorted salad leaves
- 3 tbsp of extra virgin oil
- 1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar
- 8 caper berries
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
How to prepare
- Heat a griddle or non-stick frying pan, and slice the Halloumi into 8 pieces. Cook each side for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cut the figs into halves or quarters. Coat the salad leaves with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and distribute them among four plates.
- Arrange the Halloumi on top of the salad leaves, along with the figs and caper berries.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Variations
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Substitute the figs with pomegranate seeds for a different flavor profile.
- Top the salad with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to cook the Halloumi on high heat to achieve a nice golden brown crust.
- Be careful not to overcook the Halloumi, as it can become rubbery.
- Use ripe figs for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the Halloumi cheese adds a smoky flavor to the salad, while also giving it a nice texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find Halloumi cheese, you can substitute it with paneer or firm tofu.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to save time.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the salad on a large platter for a beautiful presentation, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad contains approximately 25 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
This salad is rich in calcium, vitamin C, and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (Halloumi cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Summary
Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad is a nutritious and balanced meal, rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Summary
Seared Halloumi and Fig Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish. With the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a warm summer day and I was flipping through a food magazine while sipping on a cup of tea. As soon as I came across the picture of the Seared Halloumi And Fig Salad, my mouth started to water. The combination of the salty halloumi cheese, sweet figs, and tangy vinaigrette looked absolutely divine.
I immediately ripped out the page from the magazine and decided to make the salad for dinner that night. I had never cooked with halloumi before, but I was excited to try something new. I called up my friend Susan, who was a fantastic cook, and asked her for some tips on how to sear the halloumi perfectly.
Susan told me that I needed to make sure the halloumi was completely dry before searing it, as any moisture would prevent it from getting that nice crispy crust. She also suggested using a hot non-stick pan and only flipping the halloumi once to get those beautiful grill marks.
Armed with Susan's advice, I headed to the grocery store to pick up all the ingredients for the salad. I found some ripe figs, a block of halloumi cheese, mixed greens, and a few other ingredients for the vinaigrette. I couldn't wait to get home and start cooking.
As I sliced the halloumi and figs, I could already smell the delicious aroma filling my kitchen. I heated up the pan and carefully placed the halloumi slices in, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. The sizzle of the cheese as it hit the hot surface was music to my ears.
After a few minutes, I flipped the halloumi over and was greeted with a beautiful golden crust. I could tell it was going to be just perfect. I quickly assembled the salad, placing the seared halloumi and figs on top of the mixed greens and drizzling the vinaigrette over everything.
As I took my first bite of the salad, I was immediately transported to a sunny Mediterranean beach. The salty halloumi paired perfectly with the sweet figs, and the tangy vinaigrette tied everything together beautifully. I knew that this recipe was going to become a staple in my kitchen.
Over the years, I have made the Seared Halloumi And Fig Salad countless times for family gatherings, dinner parties, and just for myself on a lazy Sunday afternoon. It never fails to impress and always leaves everyone wanting more.
I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and each time I do, I am reminded of that first moment I saw it in the magazine. It's amazing how a simple recipe can bring so much joy and satisfaction to both the cook and the ones who get to enjoy it.
As I sit here writing this, I can't help but smile at the memories that this salad has brought me. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and share my love with others. And this Seared Halloumi And Fig Salad is a perfect example of that.
So the next time you're looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe it will become a favorite in your kitchen, just like it has in mine.
Categories
| Balsamic Vinegar Recipes | Berry Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Cypriot Recipes | Cypriot Salads | Fig Recipes | Haloumi Recipes |