Tomato and Halloumi Bake is a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds while keeping things healthy and vegetarian-friendly. It's a perfect blend of sweet, tangy tomatoes and salty, creamy halloumi cheese. Served as a main course or as a side dish, its perfect for family dinners or potluck parties - basically anytime you're hungry, this dish is ready to hit it.
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Tomato and Halloumi Bake
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Tomato and Halloumi Bake
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 medium zucchini sliced
- 2 medium eggplants sliced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 thyme sprig
- 1 can 400 g/14 oz canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 250 g (½ pound) halloumi cheese, sliced
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 240C/465F.
- Heat a cast iron pan with some olive oil. Add sliced onions and saute for 5 minutes.2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium white onion, 3 garlic cloves
- Add eggplants, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes.2 medium eggplants, salt and pepper
- Mix in zucchini slices, season with paprika, thyme and sugar. Add tomato paste and mix well.1 medium zucchini, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 thyme sprig, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- Pour tomatoes into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes.Place halloumi slices on top and bake for 15 minutes.1 can, 250 g (½ pound) halloumi cheese, sliced
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 medium eggplants, sliced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 thyme sprig
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 250 g (½ pound) halloumi cheese, sliced
- salt and pepper
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 240C/465F.
Heat a cast iron pan with some olive oil. Add sliced onions and saute for 5 minutes.
Add eggplants, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
Mix in zucchini slices, season with paprika, thyme and sugar. Add tomato paste and mix well.
Pour tomatoes into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes. Place halloumi slices on top and bake for 15 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Complementary Sides
Tomato and Halloumi Bake is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. One classic option is a simple green salad. The freshness of the greens and the acidity of a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the halloumi and the sweetness of the tomatoes. Another great side is garlic bread. The crunchy texture and garlicky flavor make for a satisfying bite that complements the soft, gooey casserole.
Grain Options
If you want something more filling, consider serving your Tomato and Halloumi Bake with a grain. Quinoa is an excellent choice because it's light, fluffy, and packed with protein. Alternatively, couscous or even a side of roasted potatoes can add a hearty element to your meal. These grains can soak up the delicious juices from the bake, making every bite a delight.
Beverage Pairing
Don’t forget about beverages! A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can elevate the flavors of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can be just as refreshing and complement the flavors beautifully. Remember, a well-paired drink can enhance your dining experience significantly.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Ingredient Quality
The key to a sublime Tomato and Halloumi Bake lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor. Their natural sweetness and acidity can make a world of difference. Similarly, choose high-quality halloumi. The better the cheese, the creamier and saltier it will be, which elevates the whole dish.
Cooking Technique
When assembling your bake, make sure to slice the halloumi thick enough so that it retains its structure after baking. Also, preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Layer your tomatoes and halloumi meticulously, and don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle herbs like basil or oregano for an added burst of flavor.
Baking Tips
A common mistake is overbaking. Keep an eye on your casserole and remove it from the oven once the halloumi turns golden and the tomatoes start bubbling. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F. Overbaking can make the halloumi rubbery, which you definitely want to avoid.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Tomato and Halloumi Bake is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.
Is There a Vegan Alternative?
If you're catering to vegans (or are one of those lucky), you can easily adapt this recipe. Swap out the halloumi for a vegan cheese alternative. Look for varieties that melt well and have a similar texture to halloumi. You could also add some tofu or tempeh for extra protein. Season it well to mimic the salty flavor of halloumi.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and flavor of the dish.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved the Tomato and Halloumi Bake, you're in for a treat! Veggie casseroles are some of my favorites. They’re incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various tastes and dietary preferences. Wanting more of that sweet, delicious veggie-in-a-casserole? Oh, I've got you covered:
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