Haloumi pasta salad
Summary
Ah, the delightful Haloumi pasta salad! A perfect combo of zesty flavors and creamy textures, bringing together the savory Haloumi cheese with fresh veggies and perfectly al dente pasta. Whether you’re looking for a meal to fuel your workout or just a tasty dish to share with friends, this Haloumi pasta salad is your go-to. Packed with essential nutrients and bursting with flavors, it’s the ideal choice for any health enthusiast on AH7. Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice: 8 oz (227 grams)
- Haloumi cheese: 7 oz (198 grams)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup (150 grams)
- Cucumber: 1 medium-sized (around 150 grams)
- Red bell pepper: 1 (around 150 grams)
- Fresh basil: A handful (around 20 grams)
- Lemon: 1 (juice and zest)
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Serves 2
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Proteins: 20g
- Fats: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
Step-by-step Instructions
- Boil a large pot of water. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the Haloumi cheese into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- In a pan, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Haloumi slices, frying until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, fried Haloumi, and fresh basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the Haloumi pasta salad, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Toss the mixture gently to combine all the flavors and ingredients.
Handy Tips
- Always use a non-stick pan for frying Haloumi to ensure it doesn’t stick.
- For a zestier taste, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- If you have any allergies, ensure you check all ingredient labels before cooking.
- Remember, Haloumi can be a bit salty. So, taste before adding any extra salt.
Serving Suggestions
- This Haloumi pasta salad is best served cold. Refrigerate for an hour before serving for the best flavors.
- Consider garnishing with some fresh mint or parsley for an added layer of flavor.
- For those looking for some crunch, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or almond slices.
- This dish pairs perfectly with a refreshing iced tea or a cool glass of water with a splash of lemon.
FAQs
How long can I store this Haloumi pasta salad in the refrigerator?
Typically, it’s best to consume it within 2-3 days for optimum freshness.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Haloumi?
Sure, though the distinct taste of Haloumi is key. You could try paneer or firm tofu as alternatives.
Is Haloumi pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Haloumi cheese is generally vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make the salad creamier?
Consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
I don’t have basil. Can I use another herb?
Certainly! Fresh parsley or mint can be great substitutes.
Can I add other veggies to this Haloumi pasta salad?
Of course! Experiment with your favorites like olives or artichoke hearts.
Is it okay to eat this salad warm?
Yes, though traditionally it’s served cold. It’s all about personal preference.
Are there any alternatives to using olive oil in the dressing?
Yes, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil as a substitute.
What pasta works best for Haloumi pasta salad?
Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are fantastic choices, but feel free to use your favorite!
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely, just make sure to pick a gluten-free pasta variant.
Now, you’ve got all you need to whip up a nutritious and delightful Haloumi pasta salad. Remember, the joy of cooking is in the journey and not just the destination. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your creation!
Haloumi pasta salad
Nutritions
Ingredients
- – Pasta of your choice: 8 oz 227 grams
- – Haloumi cheese: 7 oz 198 grams
- – Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup 150 grams
- – Cucumber: 1 medium-sized around 150 grams
- – Red bell pepper: 1 around 150 grams
- – Fresh basil: A handful around 20 grams
- – Lemon: 1 juice and zest
- – Olive oil: 3 tablespoons 45 ml
- – Salt: To taste
- – Black pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of water. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the Haloumi cheese into 1/2 inch thick slices.
- In a pan, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Haloumi slices, frying until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, fried Haloumi, and fresh basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the Haloumi pasta salad, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Toss the mixture gently to combine all the flavors and ingredients.
Notes
2. For a zestier taste, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
3. If you have any allergies, ensure you check all ingredient labels before cooking.
4. Remember, Haloumi can be a bit salty. So, taste before adding any extra salt.
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