Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
Introduction
Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing is a colorful and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of sweet carrots, salty halloumi cheese, and tangy pomegranate dressing makes this salad both refreshing and satisfying. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also packed with flavors and textures that everyone will love!
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only delicious but also very easy to make. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables and cheese, making it a wholesome option for a light lunch or a delightful side. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings, and the vibrant colors will surely impress your guests. The pomegranate dressing adds a unique zing that brightens up the salad, making it a must-try.
How to Make Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
Ingredients:
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks or ribbons
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens or arugula
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds or chopped pistachios
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a bowl, toss the carrots with cumin, cinnamon, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients and set aside.
- Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- On a large platter, layer the greens, spiced carrots, and grilled halloumi.
- Drizzle with the pomegranate dressing. Then, scatter pomegranate seeds, sunflower seeds or pistachios, and mint on top.
- Serve immediately as a light lunch or vibrant side dish.
How to Serve Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
To serve this salad, place it on a large platter for sharing, or you can plate individual servings. It works well as a light lunch on its own or can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or other main courses. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
How to Store Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, for best flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
Tips to Make Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
- If you can’t find halloumi cheese, feta or grilled tofu can be good alternatives.
- Adjust the spices to your taste; if you like more heat, add a pinch of chili powder.
- For added flavor, try adding some chopped dried fruit like apricots or cranberries.
Variation
You can change up this salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or even some sliced avocado for creaminess. You might also try different nuts or seeds based on what you have on hand.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spiced carrots and the dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to add the halloumi and greens just before serving.
2. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this salad vegan, you can omit the halloumi and replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein.
3. Can I use other greens in this salad?
Absolutely! You can use spinach, kale, or even a romaine mix instead of mixed greens or arugula.
Enjoy making this delicious Spiced Carrot & Halloumi Salad with Pomegranate Dressing! It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor.
