Looking for a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also a feast for the eyes? Dive into the Mediterranean with our irresistible Baked Orzo with Halloumi and Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables! This vibrant recipe combines perfectly cooked orzo pasta, savory halloumi cheese, and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. With just an hour of your time, you can create a comforting meal that serves four and is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta
- Halloumi cheese
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and chop bell peppers and zucchini into bite-sized, roughly 1-inch pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Place the chopped vegetables on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
- While vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cut the halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lightly brush with olive oil.
- In a large oven-safe casserole dish, combine the cooked orzo and roasted vegetables. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
- Arrange the halloumi cheese slices on top of the orzo and vegetable mixture.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the halloumi is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and halloumi in advance. You can store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables! Eggplant, asparagus, or even spinach can add a delightful twist to the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the vegetables is key to developing their natural sweetness and enhancing their flavors. Make sure they get nice and caramelized for the best taste!
- Halloumi Magic: For an extra crispy texture, consider grilling the halloumi slices for a few minutes before placing them on top of the orzo. This will add a delicious char and depth of flavor.
- Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving not only brightens up the dish but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices left on your plate!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
