Save to Pinterest This vibrant Halloumi Blood Orange Fattoush is a Middle Eastern-inspired masterpiece that brings together contrasting textures and bold flavors. Golden-fried halloumi provides a salty, warm element that pairs perfectly with the citrusy brightness of juicy blood orange segments and a crisp variety of fresh greens.
Save to Pinterest The addition of homemade sourdough croutons adds a rustic crunch, while the zesty sumac dressing ensures every bite is infused with tangy, aromatic notes. It's an easy yet sophisticated salad that works beautifully as a light lunch or an impressive side dish.
Ingredients
- Salad
- 200 g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces
- 2 blood oranges, peeled and segmented
- 150 g mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, arugula, parsley, mint)
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 radishes, thinly sliced
- Croutons
- 2 thick slices sourdough bread, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
- Dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- 1 tsp sumac
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss sourdough cubes in olive oil and sea salt. Spread on a baking tray and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy; set aside to cool.
- Step 2
- In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, fry the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain briefly on a paper towel.
- Step 3
- In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, radishes, and blood orange segments.
- Step 4
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, pomegranate molasses, sumac, black pepper, and salt to make the dressing.
- Step 5
- Add the fried halloumi and sourdough croutons to the salad bowl. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss to combine.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately while the halloumi is still warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of texture and a nutty flavor, consider adding a handful of toasted pistachios or walnuts to the salad just before serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If blood oranges are not in season, you can easily substitute them with regular naval oranges or pink grapefruit for a similar citrus profile.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish the finished dish with fresh pomegranate seeds for a colorful, tangy touch. This salad pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this Halloumi Blood Orange Fattoush immediately to experience the delightful contrast of the warm cheese against the chilled, crisp vegetables. It is a true celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant Middle Eastern tradition.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare halloumi fattoush ahead of time?
Prepare all vegetables and dressing in advance, but fry the halloumi and bake croutons just before serving. This keeps the cheese warm and the bread crispy for the best texture contrast.
- → What can I substitute for blood oranges?
Regular navel oranges, pink grapefruit, or even segments of cara cara oranges work beautifully. The goal is that sweet citrus element to balance the salty halloumi.
- → Is halloumi vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, halloumi is vegetarian as it's made from sheep's and goat's milk (sometimes cow's milk). It's an excellent protein source for vegetarian diets.
- → How do I prevent soggy croutons?
Bake the sourdough cubes until thoroughly golden and crisp. Let them cool completely before tossing with the dressed vegetables, and serve immediately after combining.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute the sourdough bread with gluten-free bread cubes. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
- → What does sumac taste like?
Sumac has a tangy, slightly lemony flavor with subtle earthy notes. It's a staple Middle Eastern spice that adds brightness without the acidity of citrus juice.