Warm Halloumi Salad
Warm Halloumi Salad Recipe from Cyprus - Ingredients: Halloumi, Tomato, Rocket, Lettuce, Kalamata, Red Wine Vinegar, Olive Oil, Garlic, Oregano
Introduction
Warm Halloumi Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the salty and savory flavors of halloumi cheese with fresh greens and a tangy olive dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
History
Halloumi cheese has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. This semi-hard cheese is known for its unique texture and ability to hold its shape when cooked, making it perfect for grilling or frying. The combination of halloumi with fresh greens and a flavorful dressing is a modern twist on traditional Mediterranean salads.
Ingredients
For the dressing
- 2 oz (57 g) pitted kalamata olives
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- garlic (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
How to prepare
- Prepare the dressing by turning the olives into a paste.
- Add garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil to the dressing.
- Make the salad by cutting all greens into even-sized pieces and placing them in a bowl.
- Shallow fry the halloumi in virgin olive oil.
- Dry the fried halloumi and place it on top of the greens.
- Add the dressing to the salad and mix thoroughly.
- Garnish the salad with tomato wedges.
- Serve the salad with hot pita bread.
Variations
- Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
- Substitute feta cheese for halloumi for a different flavor profile.
- Top the salad with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to dry the halloumi thoroughly before frying to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Use a variety of greens such as rocket, lettuce, and other leafy greens to add texture and flavor to the salad.
- Make the dressing ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the salad immediately after assembling to prevent the greens from wilting.
Serving Suggestions
Warm Halloumi Salad can be served as a main dish for a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood.
Cooking Techniques
Shallow fry the halloumi in olive oil to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Make the dressing by blending olives, vinegar, and olive oil for a smooth and flavorful sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use any type of cheese such as feta or mozzarella if halloumi is not available.
- Substitute balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar in the dressing for a sweeter flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the dressing and greens ahead of time, but fry the halloumi and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Warm Halloumi Salad on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. - Arrange the salad in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Warm Halloumi Salad with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir.
- Serve the salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the salad in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the halloumi.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Warm Halloumi Salad contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Warm Halloumi Salad contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Warm Halloumi Salad contains approximately 20 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Warm Halloumi Salad contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Warm Halloumi Salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Warm Halloumi Salad contains dairy (halloumi cheese) and olives, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Warm Halloumi Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good source of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Warm Halloumi Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With a combination of salty halloumi cheese, fresh greens, and a tangy olive dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her beautiful garden. As we sat in the shade of her old oak tree, she served me a delicious warm halloumi salad that she had made herself.
I had never tasted anything quite like it before - the salty halloumi cheese paired perfectly with the sweet roasted vegetables and tangy dressing. I knew that I had to have the recipe for myself, so I asked Maria to share it with me.
Maria smiled and began to tell me the story of how she had learned to make the salad. She explained that she had first tasted it while traveling through Greece many years ago. The combination of flavors had captivated her, and she had made it her mission to recreate the dish at home.
Over the years, Maria had perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit her own tastes. She had even added a few secret ingredients that she swore made all the difference. As she shared the recipe with me, I could see the passion and love she had put into perfecting it.
After that day, I made the warm halloumi salad countless times for my family and friends. It quickly became a favorite among them, and they would always ask me for the recipe. I would smile and tell them the story of how I had learned it from Maria, passing on the tradition and love that had been shared with me.
As the years went by, I continued to make the salad, each time adding my own little twist to it. Sometimes I would add a handful of fresh herbs from my garden, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra kick. No matter how many times I made it, the salad always brought back memories of that warm summer day in Maria's garden.
I cherished those moments spent with Maria, learning from her and sharing in her love of cooking. She taught me not just how to make a delicious salad, but also the importance of putting love and passion into everything I cook. It was a lesson that has stayed with me throughout the years, guiding me as I continue to experiment and try new recipes.
Now, as I sit in my own garden, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of nature, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. The warm halloumi salad will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the bond between friends and the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. And for that, I am truly thankful.
Categories
| Arugula Recipes | Black Olive Recipes | Cypriot Recipes | Cypriot Salads | Haloumi Recipes | Lettuce Recipes | Red Wine Vinegar Recipes | Tomato Recipes |