Discover a culinary gem that brings the bold flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table! Our Dandelion and Halloumi Salad is not just a dish; it's a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients and tantalizing textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine the earthy bitterness of dandelion greens perfectly complemented by the rich, salty goodness of grilled halloumi cheese. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a stunning side dish at your next gathering. Ready to impress your guests and elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- Dandelion greens
- Halloumi cheese
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Wash the dandelion greens thoroughly under cold running water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Trim the tough stems from the dandelion greens and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even distribution.
- Cut the halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices, ensuring they are relatively even to promote consistent grilling.
- Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance caramelization.
- Grill the halloumi slices for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy, creating beautiful grill marks.
- Remove the grilled halloumi from heat and let it rest for a moment while preparing the salad base.
- In a large salad bowl, arrange the chopped dandelion greens as the base, creating a vibrant green foundation.
- Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a light, zesty dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the dandelion greens and gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Place the grilled halloumi slices on top of the dressed dandelion greens, arranging them artfully.
- Serve immediately while the halloumi is still warm, allowing the heat to slightly wilt the greens and blend the flavors.
Tips
- Choosing Dandelion Greens: When selecting dandelion greens, look for fresh, vibrant leaves without any wilting or browning. Young greens are milder in flavor, making them perfect for salads.
- Prepping Halloumi: For the best results, ensure your halloumi slices are evenly cut to achieve a consistent grill. If you want an extra kick, consider marinating the cheese in olive oil and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Grilling Technique: To achieve those beautiful grill marks and a crispy texture, make sure your grill pan or skillet is hot enough before adding the halloumi. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Dressing Variations: Feel free to customize your dressing! Add a teaspoon of honey for sweetness or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salad immediately after assembling to enjoy the contrast of warm halloumi and fresh greens. Pair it with crusty bread or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 40mg
