WeeknightVegetarian

Crispy Halloumi Grain Bowls with Zesty Dressing

These satisfying grain bowls feature golden pan-fried halloumi, roasted veggies, and a bright lemon-tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.

Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
3
Level
Weeknight
Crispy Halloumi Grain Bowls with Zesty Dressing

Forget sad desk lunches! These Crispy Halloumi Grain Bowls are here to liven things up. We're talking golden-brown halloumi cheese, tender roasted vegetables, and a creamy, zesty dressing all piled high on a bed of your favorite grain. It's a meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to pull together.

Ingredients

Yield: 3 servings

For the Bowls

  • 1 block (8 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or farro
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for frying halloumi
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Zesty Dressing

  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2-3 tbsp warm water (to thin)
  • Pinch of salt

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly charred.

  2. Step 2

    While vegetables are roasting, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Gradually whisk in warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.

  3. Step 3

    Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of olive oil. Add halloumi slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

  4. Step 4

    Assemble the bowls: Divide cooked quinoa or farro between three bowls. Top with roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and crispy halloumi. Drizzle generously with the zesty dressing before serving.

Tips

  • Prep your grain ahead of time to make these bowls even quicker on a weeknight.
  • Feel free to swap in your favorite roasted vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes.

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