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Vibrant Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Lemon-Herb Grilled Halloumi
Explore this colorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad featuring lemon-herb grilled halloumi. Perfect for gatherings, packed with flavor. Try it today!
There's something undeniably captivating about a salad that bursts with colors and flavors, and this Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Lemon-Herb Grilled Halloumi is no exception. Growing up, my family would often gather around a table filled with vibrant dishes, and this salad brings back those cherished memories of shared meals and laughter. Featuring a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly grilled halloumi cheese, this dish is a modern twist on classic Mediterranean flavors that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
The beauty of this salad lies not only in its stunning presentation but also in its ability to transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every bite. Crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny Kalamata olives provide a refreshing crunch, while the lemon-herb dressing adds a zingy brightness. The star of the show, however, is the halloumi cheese, which is grilled to perfection, offering a delightful squeak with each bite. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this salad is sure to impress.
Recipe Overview
🥗 Vegetarian
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
30 mins
Servings
6
Calories
420 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Explore this colorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad featuring lemon-herb grilled halloumi. Perfect for gatherings, packed with flavor. Try it today!
Ingredients
- • orzo pasta: 1 cup
- • cherry tomatoes, halved: 1 cup
- • cucumber, diced: 1
- • red bell pepper, diced: 1
- • Kalamata olives, pitted and halved: 1/2 cup
- • red onion, thinly sliced: 1/4 cup
- • fresh parsley, chopped: 1/4 cup
- • fresh mint leaves, chopped: 2 tablespoons
- • halloumi cheese, sliced: 8 ounces
- • lemon juice: 1/4 cup
- • extra-virgin olive oil: 1/3 cup
- • garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- • dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- • salt and black pepper: to taste
- • lemon zest: from 1 lemon
Instructions
- 1 Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. This step ensures the pasta doesn’t stick together and stays light and fluffy in the salad.
- 2 In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a zesty dressing. Set aside to let the flavors meld together while preparing the rest of the salad.
- 3 Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy. The grilling enhances the halloumi's natural saltiness and creates a delightful texture contrast in the salad.
- 4 In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, Kalamata olives, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure an even distribution of colors and flavors.
- 5 Pour the prepared lemon dressing over the salad and toss again to coat everything evenly. The dressing not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
- 6 Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Arrange the grilled halloumi slices on top, and garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus fragrance and appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- • This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate, making it an ideal centerpiece for any dining table. Serve it as a light lunch or pair it with grilled meats or fish for a more substantial meal. The savory halloumi pairs wonderfully with a crisp, chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, which balances the salad's vibrant flavors. For an added touch of elegance, garnish the salad with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a scattering of pomegranate seeds. These additions provide a delightful crunch and a pop of color that heightens the visual appeal. Alternatively, serve the salad with warm, crusty bread to soak up the zesty dressing, making each bite even more satisfying.
Storage Tips
To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While the flavors will continue to develop, the halloumi can lose its crispy texture, so consider storing the cheese separately and grilling it fresh before serving. If you wish to freeze the components, freeze the cooked orzo and vegetables separately, excluding the fresh herbs, which are best added fresh after thawing. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in a microwave, just long enough to warm the orzo. Avoid overcooking to maintain the pasta's texture. For best results, add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving to revive the salad's vibrant flavors.
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