Halloumi & Zucchini Grill Plate with Rice & Fresh Herb Yogurt
Elevate your grilling game with this delightful Next-Level Halloumi & Zucchini Grill Plate with Rice & Fresh Herb Yogurt. This simple yet impressive dish is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. With a combination of grilled halloumi and zucchini served over fluffy basmati rice and complemented with a refreshing herb yogurt dip, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Halloumi & Zucchini Grill Plate is perfect for those who love quick and healthy meals. The combination of halloumi cheese—celebrated for its unique ability to grill without melting—and fresh zucchini allows you to enjoy a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. The herb yogurt dip adds a creamy, tangy element that beautifully complements the smoky flavors from the grill, creating a delightful balance on your plate. Plus, with a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 10 minutes, you can whip this up in no time!
Key Ingredients
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Grill Items
- 200 g sliced halloumi cheese
- 2 fresh zucchinis, cut into thick rounds
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Chopped parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Herb Yogurt Dip
- 150 g thick Greek yogurt
- Fresh parsley and mint, finely chopped
- Minced garlic
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice Base
- Steamed basmati rice
Instructions
Step 1: Start by marinating the Halloumi and zucchini. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the sliced halloumi and thick zucchini rounds thoroughly in the marinade. Allow them to sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once heated, place the marinated halloumi slices and zucchini rounds on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely marked and crisping up. Keep an eye on the halloumi, as it can quickly turn golden brown.
Step 3: While the vegetables are grilling, prepare the herb yogurt dip. In a bowl, combine the thick Greek yogurt with finely chopped parsley and mint, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-combined and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 4: Once the halloumi and zucchini are done grilling, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a minute. Fluff your steamed basmati rice and portion it onto two plates.
Step 5: Arrange the grilled halloumi and zucchini on top of the rice. Serve with a generous dollop of the herb yogurt dip and lemon wedges on the side for added freshness. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.
Notes & Variations
Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! You can add roasted peppers for extra color and flavor, swap out the rice for quinoa for a nuttier taste, or even drizzle with pomegranate molasses for a sweet, tangy finish. This dish is versatile and can suit any palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese instead of halloumi?
Yes, although halloumi is unique in that it doesn’t melt easily when grilled. If you’re looking for alternatives, grilled feta or even thick slices of mozzarella can work, keeping in mind that they may change the texture and flavor of the dish.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The grilled halloumi can become tougher in texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently if necessary.
3. Can I make the yogurt dip in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb yogurt dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
4. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Unfortunately, this dish isn’t vegan due to the halloumi cheese and Greek yogurt. However, you could replace these ingredients with vegan alternatives, such as vegan cheese and plant-based yogurt, making it vegan-friendly.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or grilled vegetable platter. You could also serve it alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade to enhance your dining experience.
Conclusion
The Next-Level Halloumi & Zucchini Grill Plate with Rice & Fresh Herb Yogurt is a must-try for any cheese lover or health-conscious eater. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavors, this dish will impress your guests or provide a fulfilling weeknight dinner for you and your family. Embrace the grilling season and enjoy this colorful, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!
