For those in search of a salad brimming with goodness and an array of tasty, vibrant ingredients (there’s a saying that the more colorful your meal, the healthier it is), this salad is perfect for you. Adorned with haloumi that’s crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside, it can serve as a fulfilling vegetarian lunch or a delightful side to grilled lamb or chicken. The dressing packs a sharp and tangy punch that balances the saltiness of the haloumi, adding zest and a hint of heat to the entire salad.
Ingredients: (Serves 4-6)
- 120 g mixed salad greens
- 1 each of medium-sized red, yellow and green bell peppers
- 2 carrots
- 1 medium-sized fresh beetroot
- 250 g assorted cherry tomatoes
- 2 cobs of fresh corn
- handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 small bunch of chives
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup pecans
- 180 -200 g block of halloumi
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 teaspoons capers
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
- sea salt and black pepper
Preheat the oven to 180 C. Spread the pepitas and pecans on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes until they emit a toasty aroma and are adequately crunchy. Remove from the oven and let cool. Dice the bell peppers into 1 cm squares. Peel the carrots and julienne them. Peel and julienne the beetroot separately to prevent its rich purple juice from staining the other ingredients. Halve the tomatoes. Using a sharp knife, slice the kernels off the corn cobs. Roughly chop the parsley and snip the chives. Prepare the dressing by combining 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, capers, and chili flakes in a small glass jar with a lid. Shake thoroughly and season to taste with sea salt and black pepper. Once ready to serve, combine all the salad ingredients in a bowl and transfer to a serving dish. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the remaining olive oil. Slice the haloumi into 8 pieces and fry until golden. Place the haloumi atop the salad, drizzle with the dressing, and serve right away.
**Vibrant Vegetable Salad with Grilled Halloumi Cheese: An Explosion of Flavor and Nutrition**
In the world of culinary experiences, few meals provide the bright allure and health benefits of a vibrant vegetable salad complemented by the deep, savory flavors of grilled halloumi cheese. This dish not only pleases the taste buds but also offers a visual feast with its diverse colors and textures. Let’s explore the elements that make this salad a remarkable choice for any meal.
**The Main Attraction: Halloumi Cheese**
Hailing from Cyprus, halloumi cheese is celebrated for its unique property of retaining shape while grilling. Its robust texture and salty profile make it a fantastic addition to salads. Upon grilling, halloumi achieves a crispy, golden crust while preserving a soft, chewy center. This variation in texture adds an exciting element to the salad.
**A Kaleidoscope of Colors: The Vegetables**
The base of this salad features a variety of fresh, colorful vegetables. Each vegetable not only adds to the aesthetic but also contributes its own assortment of nutrients:
– **Cherry Tomatoes**: These succulent red beauties are abundant in antioxidants like lycopene, known for supporting heart health.
– **Bell Peppers**: Coming in various colors, bell peppers provide crunch and are high in vitamin C.
– **Cucumbers**: Introducing a refreshing contrast, cucumbers are hydrating and low-calorie.
– **Red Onions**: Thinly sliced red onions deliver a mild, peppery taste and are good sources of vitamin C and fiber.
– **Carrots**: Grated carrots impart a hint of sweetness and are rich in beta-carotene, promoting eye health.
**The Dressing: A Harmonious Blend**
An uncomplicated yet flavorful dressing unites the salad. A classic vinaigrette crafted with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a drizzle of honey enhances the salty halloumi while accentuating the natural flavors of the vegetables. The acidity of the lemon juice balances the richness of the cheese, while the honey lends a touch of sweetness.
**Putting Together the Salad**
To assemble this salad, start by grilling halloumi cheese slices until they turn golden brown on both sides. In the meantime, chop the vegetables into bite-sized portions and combine them in a large bowl. Pour the vinaigrette over the ingredients and gently mix to ensure an even distribution. Finally, top the salad with the warm, grilled halloumi slices.
**Health Benefits**
This vibrant vegetable salad featuring grilled halloumi cheese is not just a sensory delight but a nutritious choice as well. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall wellness. The combination of fresh vegetables and protein-rich halloumi creates a balanced meal option, perfect for vegetarians and anyone aiming to add more plant-based foods to their diet.
**In Conclusion**
A vibrant vegetable salad with grilled halloumi cheese is a flexible dish that can serve as a light lunch, side dish, or main course. Its striking colors, varied textures, and blend of flavors make it a wonderful addition to any table. Whether you’re a seasoned culinary expert or a home cook, this salad is guaranteed to impress and fulfill.