Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
The Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing is a colorful and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. This salad combines the creamy, salty flavor of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds and the heartiness of chickpeas. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a light mint-lemon dressing, and you have a bowl full of delightful flavors and textures.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. It is packed with protein from the chickpeas and halloumi, along with vitamins and minerals from the fresh ingredients. It’s a quick dish to prepare, making it an excellent choice for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s visually appealing, thanks to the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Whether you need a salad for a potluck, a picnic, or just a quick weeknight meal, this salad fits the bill!
How to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad with Mint-Lemon Dressing
Ingredients:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden and slightly crispy. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, pomegranate seeds, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mixed greens, and chopped mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Top the salad with grilled halloumi slices. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad
Serve this salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It is best served fresh, but it can also sit for a while if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Just add the halloumi just before serving for the best texture.
How to Store Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will last for about 2 days. Keep in mind that the salad may lose some crunch over time, so it is best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to Make Halloumi & Pomegranate Chickpea Salad
- Make sure to rinse the chickpeas well to remove extra salt and improve their flavor.
- Try to buy fresh pomegranate seeds or cut open a pomegranate instead of using pre-packaged seeds for the best taste.
- If you want to add extra crunch, consider adding nuts like walnuts or almonds.
Variation
Feel free to customize this salad to your liking. You can add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or use different greens like spinach or arugula. If you want to add some protein, consider including grilled chicken or quinoa.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of halloumi?
Yes, you can use feta cheese for a similar flavor, though it won’t have the same texture when grilled.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it is best to make the dressing and add it just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
