Salad craving satisfied! try our easy-to-follow halloumi arugula salad recipe today

Prepare yourself for a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with our mouthwatering halloumi arugula salad recipe. This vibrant and refreshing dish combines the salty tang of halloumi cheese, the peppery bite of arugula, and a symphony of fresh vegetables. It’s the perfect summer salad that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

• 1 block (8 ounces) of halloumi cheese, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1 bunch of arugula, washed and dried
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Grill the Halloumi: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the arugula, tomatoes, onion, cucumber, parsley, and mint.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Grilled Halloumi: Once the halloumi is grilled, add it to the salad bowl.
5. Toss to Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the halloumi arugula salad immediately, while the halloumi is still warm and crispy.

Variations

• Add Grilled Vegetables: For a heartier salad, add grilled zucchini, peppers, or eggplant.
• Use Different Greens: Swap out the arugula for baby spinach, kale, or romaine lettuce.
• Substitute Feta Cheese: If you don’t have halloumi, you can use crumbled feta cheese instead.
• Add Olives and Capers: For a salty and briny flavor, add chopped olives and capers.
• Make it a Main Course: Serve the salad with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.

Benefits of Halloumi Arugula Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: Halloumi is an excellent source of protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Arugula is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium.
• Low in Calories: This salad is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for weight management.
• Antioxidant-Rich: The vegetables in this salad are loaded with antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage.
• Refreshing and Hydrating: The high water content of the vegetables makes this salad a refreshing and hydrating choice on a hot summer day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Halloumi arugula salad is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion:

• Summer Lunches: Pack it for a light and refreshing lunch on a hot afternoon.
• Picnics and Gatherings: Bring it to your next picnic or gathering for a crowd-pleasing side dish.
• Healthy Dinners: Serve it as a light and healthy dinner with grilled chicken or fish.
• Appetizers: Cut the halloumi into smaller pieces and serve it as an appetizer with a drizzle of honey.
• Brunches: Add it to your brunch menu for a savory and satisfying option.

Tips for Making the Best Halloumi Arugula Salad

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the salad.
• Don’t Overcook the Halloumi: Grilled halloumi should be golden brown but not overcooked. Overcooked halloumi will become rubbery.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let the Salad Rest: After tossing the salad, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to soak into the ingredients.
• Serve Warm or Cold: This salad can be served warm or cold. If serving it cold, make sure to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Final Note: A Mediterranean Feast in Every Bite

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our halloumi arugula salad recipe. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, healthy meals, and any occasion that calls for a culinary delight. Experiment with our variations and tips to create your own unique take on this Mediterranean classic.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of halloumi?
A: Yes, you can use crumbled feta cheese or grilled paneer cheese as a substitute for halloumi.
Q: How can I make the salad ahead of time?
A: You can grill the halloumi and prepare the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to the salad?
A: You can add grilled zucchini, peppers, eggplant, or olives to the salad for extra flavor and texture.