Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to your table. Perfect for busy days, this salad is quick to prepare and combines the savory goodness of halloumi with the sweetness of cranberries. It’s a vibrant and satisfying option that works well as a standalone meal or a hearty side.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
This Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Halloumi cheese provides protein and calcium, while butter beans add fiber and a good source of plant-based protein. The combination of sweet cranberries and fresh mint in the dressing creates a wonderful balance of flavors, making this salad both satisfying and refreshing. It’s versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it’s suitable for various diets, whether you’re seeking a light lunch or a potluck dish.
How to Make Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing Step by Step
Ingredients
7 oz (200 g) halloumi cheese, sliced
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) butter beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup (35 g) dried cranberries
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach or arugula
2 tbsp (30 g) toasted pine nuts or walnuts
1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil, for frying halloumi
3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil
1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
1 tsp (5 g) honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp (3 g) chopped fresh mint
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside. In a large bowl, combine butter beans, cranberries, red onion, spinach, and toasted nuts. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mint, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with warm halloumi slices and serve immediately for a fresh, savory, and slightly sweet Mediterranean-inspired salad.
How to Serve Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
This salad is wonderful on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a warm crusty bread or a bowl of quinoa for added texture and nutrients. A light vinaigrette or even a yogurt-based dressing can complement the flavors nicely.
How to Store Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. While the halloumi may lose some texture, the flavors will meld deliciously. Reheat the halloumi slices in a skillet briefly before serving if desired. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cheese.
Expert Tips for Cooking Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
- Choose firm, high-quality halloumi for the best frying results.
- Allow the butter beans to drain and dry thoroughly for better flavor absorption.
- If you prefer a zestier flavor, add more lemon juice to the dressing.
- For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing.
- Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations of Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
- Add sliced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrients.
- Toss in some diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
- Incorporate cooked quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Is halloumi cheese gluten-free? Yes, halloumi cheese is typically gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? While fresh cranberries can be used, they are quite tart. Dried cranberries are recommended for a sweeter flavor balance.
How long does halloumi stay fresh? Unopened, halloumi cheese can stay in the fridge for several months; once opened, it should be consumed within a week for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
We hope you give Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing a try. This flavorful dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You’ll enjoy the savory halloumi, the sweet cranberries, and the refreshing dressing that brings everything together. Perfect for any occasion!
Halloumi & Cranberry Butter Beans Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 200 g halloumi cheese, sliced Choose firm, high-quality halloumi for the best frying results.
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) butter beans, drained and rinsed Allow the butter beans to drain and dry thoroughly for better flavor absorption.
- 35 g dried cranberries Recommended for a sweeter flavor balance.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 30 g fresh spinach or arugula Can be used interchangeably.
- 30 g toasted pine nuts or walnuts Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for a unique twist.
For the Dressing
- 15 ml olive oil, for frying halloumi
- 45 ml olive oil
- 15 ml lemon juice For a zestier flavor, add more lemon juice.
- 5 g honey or maple syrup
- 3 g chopped fresh mint
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Fry halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine butter beans, cranberries, red onion, spinach, and toasted nuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, mint, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Top with warm halloumi slices and serve immediately.
