If there’s one thing that can instantly transport you to the sunny landscapes of Greece, it’s a delightful Greek salad. Now, imagine enhancing that classic dish with the distinctive, grill-ready halloumi cheese and protein-rich chickpeas. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this Halloumi Chickpea Greek Salad recipe is a feast for both your eyes and taste buds!
Ingredients
To prepare this refreshing salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 7 oz. (200g) of halloumi cheese
- 1 can (15 oz.) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipments
- Grill pan or regular frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Salad bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spatula
How to Make Halloumi Chickpea Greek Salad Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by dicing your cucumber and halving the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the red onion and add them all to a large salad bowl. Make sure to rinse and drain the chickpeas before adding them to the mix. Stir in the Kalamata olives and capers for that extra Greek flair.
Step 2: Grill the Halloumi
Slice the halloumi into 1/4 inch thick pieces. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add the halloumi slices. Grill the cheese for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. Remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Add salt and black pepper to taste. This dressing will bind all the flavors together, taking your salad to the next level.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
It’s time to bring all the elements together. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add the grilled halloumi cheese on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve
Your Halloumi Chickpea Greek Salad is ready to be savored. Serve it immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Halloumi Chickpea Greek Salad Recipe
This vibrant salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a delightful meal. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing starter, or a side dish to complement grilled meats. Consider serving with extra olive oil and lemon wedges on the side for those who like a tangy twist.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, make sure to grill the halloumi just until it’s golden and crisp on the outside but still soft on the inside. You can tailor the seasoning to your preference by adjusting the amounts of salt, pepper, and oregano. Experiment by adding other Greek-inspired ingredients, like artichoke hearts or bell peppers, for a unique twist.
Pumping Up the Protein: The High-Protein Twist
For those looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding more chickpeas or even tossing in some quinoa to this dish. Quinoa not only enriches the taste but also adds robust texture and nutritional value to your salad, making it a satisfying meal by itself.
Slim and Light: The Low-Carb Version You’ll Love
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can modify this recipe by reducing the chickpeas. Swap them with additional grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, which will keep the salad flavorful yet light. Serve atop a bed of fresh romaine lettuce for that crunchy, low-carb base.
Storage Instructions
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing and grilled halloumi separate and toss them in just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly.
- What can I substitute for halloumi cheese? Paneer or mozzarella can be great substitutes if halloumi is unavailable.
- How do I ensure my salad isn’t watery? Avoid adding salt to the veggies too early and ensure all ingredients are properly drained.
- Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, simply omit the halloumi or replace it with grilled tofu.
Summary: Let’s Discuss and Share
This Halloumi Chickpea Greek Salad is a Mediterranean delight that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Its delicious layers of flavors and textures make it a perfect addition to any meal. What do you think of the recipe? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family!