Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl
The Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl is a delicious and healthy meal that combines the crispy goodness of halloumi cheese with nutritious lentils and fresh greens. This dish is not just easy to make but also packed with flavors and textures that will please anyone’s palate. Whether for lunch or dinner, this bowl is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make the Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl. First, it’s a great source of protein and essential nutrients, thanks to the combination of lentils and halloumi cheese. Second, it is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite greens or add in extra vegetables. Lastly, it’s a quick recipe that takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
How to Make Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl
Making the Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl is simple and straightforward. Follow these three easy steps:
Ingredients
- 150g halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked green lentils
- 1/2 roasted carrot, sliced
- 1 cup spinach or baby greens
- 1 tbsp toasted pine nuts
- Lemon zest & juice
- Olive oil
- Pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
Directions
- Pan-fry halloumi: Cook halloumi slices in a dry nonstick pan until golden, about 2 minutes per side.
- Roast carrots: Toss sliced carrots with olive oil and roast at 200°C (400°F) until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Assemble the bowl: Mix cooked lentils with lemon-herb vinaigrette (made from lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh herbs). Plate with roasted carrots, greens, and halloumi.
- Top it off: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the bowl for extra crunch.
How to Serve Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl
Serve the Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl warm. It works well as a main dish, but you can also serve it as a hearty side. To enhance the flavor, consider a sprinkle of extra lemon juice or your favorite dressing just before serving.
How to Store Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the halloumi separate until ready to serve for the best texture. Reheat the lentils and vegetables before serving to enjoy them warm.
Tips to Make Herby Halloumi & Lentil Bowl
- For maximum flavor, let the roasted carrots cool before adding them to the bowl.
- Experiment with different herbs based on your preference, such as basil or cilantro.
- If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add some chili flakes to the vinaigrette.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You could also swap halloumi for feta or another cheese that melts well to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, using canned lentils is a great time-saver! Just be sure to rinse and drain them before use.
Is halloumi vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi is a vegetarian cheese, so this dish is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the lentils and roast the carrots ahead of time. Just assemble the bowl when you are ready to eat.
