Golden-brown slices of pan-seared halloumi cheese sit proudly at the dish's center. Spots of vibrant green from the lemon and herb-infused couscous pop from underneath. Charred eggplant quarters, glistening with olive oil, balance at the edge of the plate. The seasoning of deep red paprika on the cheese echoes in bits of chopped red chili scattered around. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a fine dining flair. It's as dazzling to the eye as it is to the palate.

Spiced Halloumi with Roasted Eggplant and Lemon-Herb Couscous

Name: Spiced Halloumi with Roasted Eggplant and Lemon-Herb Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: large Eggplants, 2 quartered longitudinally; block of Halloumi cheese, approx. 250 grams sliced; Paprika, 2 teaspoons; Couscous, 1 cup; Lemon, Zest of one zested; Fresh Herbs, A handful of chopped (mint, parsley, and dill work great); Red Chili, 1 finely chopped; Olive oil, 4 tablespoons; Salt and Pepper, to taste

Category Main Course

Prep 10 minutes

Cook 30 minutes

Style Mediterranean

Technique Roasting

Diet Friendly Mediterranean

Daily Recipe: September 25, 2023

This unique twist on a Mediterranean classic combines the smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with a refreshing lemon and herb couscous. We've added a spice-rubbed, seared halloumi cheese for an added layer of texture and taste. The star ingredient, eggplant, is currently at its peak in the seasons, making the dish vibrant while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients (for 4)

Large eggplants - 2 - quartered longitudinally
Block of halloumi cheese - approx. 250 grams - sliced
Paprika - 2 teaspoons
Couscous - 1 cup
Lemon - Zest of one - zested
Fresh herbs - A handful of - chopped (mint, parsley, and dill work great)
Red chili - 1 - finely chopped
Olive oil - 4 tablespoons
Salt and pepper - to taste

Preparation

Step 1 - 🕓🍆🔥

Set your oven to preheat at 400°F. Toss the eggplant quarters with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast them for about 25-30 minutes or until they are soft.
Step 2 - 🍋🌿🍚

Cook the couscous as per the instructions on the package. Once done, mix it with lemon zest and freshly chopped herbs. Let it rest for now.
Step 3 - 🧀🌶️🍳

Dry the halloumi cheese slices well and rub in the paprika. In a hot pan with a tablespoon of olive oil, sear the cheese slices until they are golden. Avoid overcooking.
Step 4 - 🍽️👩‍🍳🌶️

Make a bed of the lemon-herb couscous on a plate. Arrange the roasted eggplant pieces around it and lay the seared halloumi slices at the center. For a spicy kick, garnish with red chili. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle additional fresh herbs before serving.

Additional

Add a scoop of traditional hummus on the side for a creamier texture. Kids can help by mixing together the couscous. Not only is this dish healthy and satisfying - it's a feast for the eyes, too!