Greek Halloumi Power Bowl (Printable Version)

Golden halloumi meets fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki in this protein-packed Mediterranean bowl.

# What You Need:

→ Cheese & Grains

01 - 1 block (8 oz) halloumi cheese
02 - 2 cups cooked white rice

→ Vegetables & Garnishes

03 - 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
06 - 1/4 cup Kalamata olives
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

→ Sauces & Breads

08 - 1/2 cup prepared tzatziki sauce
09 - 2 pita breads, cut into wedges

→ Oils & Seasoning

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste

# How-To Steps:

01 - Thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and pit the olives if necessary. Set aside.
02 - Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft. Cut into wedges and keep warm.
03 - Slice the halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Pat each slice thoroughly dry with paper towels to prevent sticking.
04 - Heat a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get hot but not smoking.
05 - Place the halloumi slices in a single layer in the hot pan, working in batches if needed. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
06 - Flip the halloumi slices and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
07 - Divide the cooked rice between two large bowls. Arrange the seared halloumi, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives over the rice.
08 - Top each bowl with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Serve immediately with warm pita wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The salty crunch of seared halloumi against cool crisp vegetables hits every single texture craving in one bite
  • This bowl comes together in under thirty minutes but tastes like something youd order at that little Mediterranean place downtown
02 -
  • Dry the halloumi thoroughly with paper towels before cooking or you will never achieve that restaurant quality golden crust
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the cheese or the pan temperature will drop and you will end up with rubbery halloumi instead of crisp edged perfection
03 -
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten all the flavors and cut through the richness
  • Try grilling the halloumi outdoors in warmer months for a subtle smoky flavor that transforms the whole dish
Go Back