Description
A vibrant and healthy dish featuring griddled seasonal vegetables and golden halloumi cheese served over fluffy, lemon-infused couscous with fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Cheese
- 200 g halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 courgette, sliced lengthwise
- 1 aubergine, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Couscous
- 150 g couscous
- 200 ml boiling vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Couscous: Place the couscous in a bowl and pour over the boiling vegetable stock. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes so the liquid is absorbed, then fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
- Heat the Griddle: Warm a griddle pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote grilling.
- Season the Vegetables: Toss the courgette, aubergine, bell peppers, and red onion with half of the olive oil, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat them for grilling.
- Grill the Vegetables: Place the seasoned vegetables on the griddle pan and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have light char marks, enhancing their flavor.
- Cook the Halloumi: Add the halloumi slices to the hot griddle pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and have distinct grill marks.
- Finish the Couscous: Stir lemon juice, chopped fresh mint, and parsley into the couscous. Season lightly with salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Plate and Serve: Divide the couscous between serving plates, top with the griddled vegetables and halloumi slices, and drizzle the remaining olive oil over the dish before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetable stock for a richer couscous flavor, or substitute with water if unavailable.
- If you prefer a vegan option, substitute halloumi with grilled firm tofu or omit cheese entirely.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds atop the couscous before serving.
- Adjust the seasoning with extra lemon juice or herbs according to taste preferences.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a light yogurt dip on the side.
