marry-me-halloumi-recipe

Marry Me Halloumi: A Creamy Vegetarian Delight

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Introduction

Inspired by the famous “Marry Me Chicken,” this vegetarian version, Marry Me Halloumi, delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness in a single pan. The rich tomato and cream sauce, flavored with herbs and smoked paprika, perfectly complements the golden-browned halloumi slices. It’s a dish that’s quick, satisfying, and romantic enough to woo anyone at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian Elegance

This dish swaps chicken for halloumi, making it ideal for vegetarians while retaining all the indulgent flavors of the original.

One-Pan Wonder

Minimal effort, fewer dishes, and a speedy cooking time make this a perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy date-night meal.

Versatile Pairings

Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Halloumi and Sauce

  • Halloumi Cheese: 225g reduced-fat halloumi, sliced
  • Seasoning: Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 onion, finely diced
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Liquids:
    • 240ml vegetable stock
    • 120ml reduced-fat single cream
  • Herbs and Spices:
    • ½ tsp dried oregano
    • ½ tsp dried thyme
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Finishing Touch

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • A handful of fresh spinach

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Halloumi

  1. Season the sliced halloumi with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and brown the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
  3. Remove the halloumi from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add a splash of oil if needed.
  2. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

  1. Pour in the vegetable stock and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  2. Stir in the single cream, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika.
  3. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Halloumi

  1. Stir in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt for about 1 minute.
  2. Return the browned halloumi slices to the pan, spooning the sauce over them.
  3. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
  2. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Marry Me Halloumi with:

  • Pasta: Tagliatelle or linguine for a creamy Italian-inspired meal.
  • Rice: Fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the rich sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Zucchini, asparagus, or carrots for added texture and color.

Helpful Tips

Choose the Right Halloumi

Reduced-fat halloumi works well for a lighter dish, but regular halloumi will deliver extra creaminess and a richer flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Halloumi

Halloumi is best when golden and crisp on the outside but still soft on the inside. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery.

Customize the Herbs

Swap oregano and thyme for fresh basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute halloumi with firm tofu and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for the sauce.

What can I use instead of spinach?

Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula are excellent substitutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable stock to loosen the sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make wonderful additions.

Is this dish spicy?

The smoked paprika adds a mild warmth, but you can increase the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Marry Me Halloumi is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful vegetarian twist on a beloved classic. With its rich sauce and perfectly browned halloumi, it’s a dish that’s easy to make but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this meal is guaranteed to impress.

Conclusion

Fall in love with the flavors of Marry Me Halloumi! With creamy Parmesan sauce, sautéed spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinners. Serve it with your favorite sides, and watch this vegetarian delight become a household favorite.

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