Description
Greek Halloumi Bowls with Tzatziki are a vibrant and delicious way to indulge in Mediterranean flavors. This wholesome dish features crispy halloumi cheese, fresh vegetables, and a creamy tzatziki sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these bowls are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Customize them to your liking by swapping out veggies or grains, making this recipe as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy the delightful blend of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece.
Ingredients
- 200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of lemon
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (white or brown)
- 1 medium Persian cucumber, sliced
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10 kalamata olives
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta (optional)
- A few red onion slices (optional; soak in water to soften)
- 1 cup tzatziki (store-bought or homemade)
- 115g (4 oz) Greek yogurt (for homemade tzatziki)
- 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed (for homemade tzatziki)
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated (for homemade tzatziki)
- Squeeze of lemon juice (for homemade tzatziki)
- Pinch of salt and dried dill (for homemade tzatziki)
- Pita or flatbread, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
- Slice halloumi into half-inch pieces and marinate with half of the dressing for 10 minutes.
- While marinating, chop the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and prepare optional red onion slices.
- For homemade tzatziki, mix grated cucumber with yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Assemble bowls by layering cooked rice or quinoa first, then topping with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, feta (if using), and halloumi.
- Drizzle remaining dressing on top and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or avocado for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.