Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing is a delightful dish that combines the creamy, salty goodness of halloumi cheese with the nutty flavor of bulgur wheat. This salad bursts with vibrant colors and flavors, making it not just a healthy option but also a visually appealing one. Perfect for busy days, it’s quick to prepare and can be easily customized based on what you have in your pantry.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Bulgur is a whole grain, providing fiber and protein, while halloumi adds a rich source of calcium. The fresh mint and parsley bring added vitamins and antioxidants, making this salad a healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Additionally, the combination of dried apricots and citrus dressing enhances the flavor profile with a sweet and tangy zing, ensuring every bite is beloved.
How to Make Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing Step by Step
Ingredients
1 cup (180 g) bulgur wheat
1 3⁄4 cups (420 ml) boiling water
7 oz (200 g) halloumi cheese, sliced
1⁄4 cup (35 g) dried apricots, chopped
1⁄4 cup (30 g) chopped pistachios or almonds
1⁄2 small red onion, finely diced
1 small cucumber, diced
2 tbsp (5 g) chopped fresh mint
2 tbsp (5 g) chopped fresh parsley
Juice and zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1⁄2 lemon
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
1 tsp (5 ml) honey
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
Place bulgur wheat in a large bowl and pour boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 15–20 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork. While the bulgur rests, whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and set aside. Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat and grill halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Add chopped apricots, nuts, onion, cucumber, mint, and parsley to the fluffed bulgur. Toss gently with the citrus dressing. Top with warm grilled halloumi and an extra drizzle of dressing before serving. Enjoy this bright, hearty, and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired salad.
How to Serve Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
To enhance the dining experience, consider serving this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. A dollop of yogurt on top can add a cooling contrast, while fresh crusty bread makes for an excellent accompaniment. Pairing it with a light, herbaceous wine will elevate your meal.
How to Store Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy leftovers, it is best served cold, but if you prefer, you can warm the halloumi in a skillet briefly. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables and halloumi may change upon thawing.
Expert Tips for Cooking Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
- Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or cashews for a unique crunch.
- Allow the salad to sit for a while after dressing it—this enhances the flavors.
- Look for high-quality halloumi for the best grilling experience; some brands melt more than others.
- Add extra veggies, like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for more color and nutrition.
- Customize the dressing by adding spices like cumin or paprika for a unique twist.
Delicious Variations of Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
You can easily switch up the flavors by adding a kick of spice. Try incorporating diced chilies or red pepper flakes for a spicy version. For a herbed option, include dill or basil, which complements the mint beautifully. If you want a vegetarian variation, replace the halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh for a similar texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions about Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
Is this salad gluten-free?
No, bulgur wheat is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with quinoa.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep as the flavors meld beautifully when allowed to sit for a few hours, or even overnight.
What can I serve as an alternative to halloumi?
Feta cheese or goat cheese are great substitutes that will still provide a creamy texture.
Conclusion
Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing is an easy yet flavorful dish that can easily be tailored to your tastes. With its abundant fresh ingredients and bright flavors, this salad is sure to impress at your next gathering or even a simple weeknight dinner at home. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!
Halloumi & Bulgur Salad with Dried Apricots, Mint & Citrus Dressing
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 1 3/4 cups boiling water to soak bulgur wheat
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced can substitute feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Citrus Dressing
- 1 orange Juice and zest of
- 1/2 lemon Juice of
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt & pepper, to taste adjust according to preference
Instructions
Preparation
- Place bulgur wheat in a large bowl and pour boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 15–20 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- While the bulgur rests, whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and set aside.
Cooking
- Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat and grill halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Add chopped apricots, nuts, onion, cucumber, mint, and parsley to the fluffed bulgur.
- Toss gently with the citrus dressing.
- Top with warm grilled halloumi and an extra drizzle of dressing before serving.
