Halloumi Mediterranean Traybake: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Halloumi Mediterranean traybake: Prepare to be transported to sun-drenched shores with this vibrant and incredibly easy dish! Imagine the salty tang of halloumi mingling with the sweet burst of roasted vegetables, all infused with fragrant herbs and a drizzle of golden olive oil. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary vacation on a plate.

While traybakes themselves are a relatively modern convenience, the ingredients in this particular recipe boast a rich Mediterranean heritage. Halloumi, a semi-hard, unripened cheese originating from Cyprus, has been enjoyed for centuries. Its unique ability to hold its shape when heated makes it perfect for grilling and roasting, adding a delightful textural contrast to the soft, yielding vegetables.

So, why is a halloumi Mediterranean traybake such a crowd-pleaser? It’s simple: it’s delicious, nutritious, and incredibly convenient. The combination of salty cheese, sweet vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, the one-pan cooking method minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to meal!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 blocks (about 8 oz each) Halloumi cheese, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1 large red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, deseeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large orange bell pepper, deseeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 yellow squash, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Feta cheese, crumbled (for serving, optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving, optional)
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Preparing the Vegetables:

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to prep all those beautiful veggies. This is where the magic begins, trust me!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure the rack is in the middle position. This will ensure even cooking.
2. Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly. Nobody wants gritty veggies!
3. Chop the bell peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, then cut them into approximately 1-inch pieces. I like to use a mix of red, yellow, and orange for a vibrant and colorful traybake.
4. Cut the red onion into wedges. This adds a lovely sweetness when roasted.
5. Slice the zucchini and yellow squash into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Try to keep them roughly the same thickness so they cook evenly.
6. Leave the cherry tomatoes whole. They’ll burst in the oven, releasing their sweet juices.
7. Mince the garlic. Freshly minced garlic is key for that amazing Mediterranean flavor.
8. Halve the Kalamata olives. If you don’t like Kalamata olives, you can use another type, but I highly recommend them for their briny flavor.

Marinating the Vegetables:

Now, let’s give those veggies a flavor bath! This step is crucial for infusing them with all the delicious Mediterranean goodness.

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped bell peppers, red onion wedges, zucchini rounds, yellow squash rounds, cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and halved Kalamata olives.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This is our marinade!
3. Pour the marinade over the vegetables in the large bowl.
4. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the marinade. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
5. Let the vegetables marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, at room temperature. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become.

Preparing the Halloumi:

While the vegetables are marinating, let’s get the star of the show ready – the Halloumi!

1. Remove the Halloumi cheese from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it to brown nicely in the oven.
2. Cut each block of Halloumi into 1/2-inch thick slices. You should get about 6-8 slices from each block.

Assembling and Baking the Traybake:

Time to bring it all together and get this traybake into the oven!

1. Spread the marinated vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If you have a rimmed baking sheet, that’s even better, as it will prevent any juices from spilling over.
2. Arrange the Halloumi slices evenly among the vegetables on the baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the entire traybake with a little extra olive oil. This will help the Halloumi to brown and the vegetables to roast beautifully.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the Halloumi is golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
5. Halfway through the baking time (around 10-12 minutes), flip the Halloumi slices over to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. You can also give the vegetables a quick toss at this point.

Adding the Fresh Herbs and Serving:

Almost there! A few finishing touches will elevate this traybake to the next level.

1. Remove the traybake from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil and oregano leaves over the traybake. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma.
3. If desired, crumble some feta cheese over the traybake. The salty feta complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and the savory Halloumi perfectly.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Serve the Halloumi Mediterranean traybake immediately. It’s delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side of couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices.
6. Offer lemon wedges for squeezing over the traybake. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up all the flavors.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use other vegetables that you enjoy, such as eggplant, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herb Variations: You can also use other fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or mint.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the Halloumi with a firm tofu that has been pressed to remove excess water. Marinate the tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice before baking.
• Make it a Meal: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans to the traybake for a more substantial meal.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Halloumi Mediterranean traybake as much as I do! It’s a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

This Halloumi Mediterranean traybake isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors, textures, and colors that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dinner. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out, and it’s so easy to customize to your own preferences.

Why is this traybake a must-try? Well, first and foremost, it’s unbelievably simple to prepare. Minimal chopping, a quick toss with olive oil and herbs, and then into the oven it goes. You’re looking at maybe 15 minutes of active prep time, leaving you free to relax while the oven does all the work. Secondly, it’s packed with nutrients. From the fiber-rich vegetables to the protein-packed halloumi, this traybake is a complete and balanced meal that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. And finally, the taste! The combination of salty halloumi, sweet roasted vegetables, and fragrant herbs is simply divine. The slight char on the vegetables adds a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.

But the best part about this Halloumi Mediterranean traybake is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers (any color!), red onion, cherry tomatoes, and eggplant are all fantastic choices. You could even add some artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.

Serving suggestions? The possibilities are endless! Serve it as a main course with a side of couscous or quinoa for a more substantial meal. Or, enjoy it as a light lunch with a dollop of hummus and some warm pita bread. It’s also delicious cold, making it perfect for picnics or meal prepping. For a vegetarian option, you can easily omit the halloumi and add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

And don’t forget the herbs! While I’ve suggested oregano and thyme, feel free to experiment with other Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up all the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.

I’m confident that this Halloumi Mediterranean traybake will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a recipe that you can rely on for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal any night of the week.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of the Mediterranean. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what vegetables you used, and how you served it. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love hearing from you! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Halloumi Mediterranean traybake as much as I do.