Greek Halloumi Power Bowl (Printable)

Golden-seared halloumi with fresh vegetables, tzatziki, and warm pita in a satisfying Mediterranean bowl.

# Components:

→ Cheese & Grains

01 - 8 oz block 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

# Directions:

01 - Thinly slice cucumber and red onion, halve cherry tomatoes, and pit olives if needed. Set aside.
02 - Heat pita in dry skillet or microwave until soft. Cut into wedges and keep warm.
03 - Slice halloumi into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Pat thoroughly dry with paper towels to prevent sticking.
04 - Heat large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until hot but not smoking.
05 - Place halloumi in single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Cook undisturbed 2-3 minutes until deep golden-brown crust forms.
06 - Flip slices and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden on both sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
07 - Divide rice between two large bowls. Arrange seared halloumi, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and olives over rice.
08 - Top with tzatziki sauce, garnish with fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately with warm pita wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between hot, crispy halloumi and cool, crisp vegetables creates this perfect textural symphony in every bite
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something youd order at a fancy Mediterranean café
02 -
  • Never skip patting the halloumi completely dry with paper towels because even a little moisture will create steam instead of that golden crust we want
  • Crowding the pan will drop the temperature and prevent proper searing, so cook in batches rather than overcrowding
03 -
  • Let your halloumi come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even heating throughout
  • A splash of fresh lemon juice over the entire bowl right before serving brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness
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