Craving a refreshing and satisfying meal? This grilled quinoa salad featuring halloumi cheese is just what you need. It’s a vibrant combination of textures and flavors that will please any palate, whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for something light yet filling. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients.
The star of this recipe is the halloumi cheese, known for its unique ability to hold its shape when grilled. It adds a delightful salty flavor and a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy quinoa and fresh vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a stunning presentation on the plate.
Introducing the Grilled Quinoa Salad
This grilled quinoa salad is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures.
With nutty quinoa serving as the base, it offers a light yet filling option for any meal.
The vibrant colors of diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and halved cherry tomatoes make for an appealing presentation.
Halloumi Cheese: The Star Ingredient
Halloumi cheese truly shines in this recipe.
Known for its unique ability to retain shape when grilled, it adds a savory touch to the dish.
The slightly chewy texture and mild saltiness complement the fluffy quinoa beautifully.
A Balanced Combination of Ingredients
This salad features not just quinoa and halloumi, but also an array of fresh vegetables.
The sweet and crunchy bell peppers, refreshing cucumbers, and juicy cherry tomatoes create a harmonious blend of earthy and tangy flavors.
A drizzle of light lemon dressing enhances the overall taste, making it a well-rounded meal.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This dish is straightforward to prepare, taking about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Begin by cooking the quinoa until it is fluffy, then grill the halloumi until golden brown.
Toss everything together with the vegetables and a simple dressing for a quick, nutritious meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serve the salad warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.
Feel free to get creative—add roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or even different herbs for a unique twist.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Each serving offers a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
With about 350 calories per serving, it makes for a satisfying yet light meal option.
A Complete Meal with Grilled Quinoa and Halloumi
This grilled quinoa salad is a balanced dish combining nutty quinoa, savory grilled halloumi, and an assortment of colorful vegetables. The taste is a harmonious blend of earthy and salty flavors, accented with a tangy lemon dressing that brings everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
- Grill the Halloumi: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa and grilled halloumi to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix everything together.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold salad.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 32g