There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s topped with crispy halloumi and a burst of lemony freshness. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of halloumi cheese and bright lemon zest, making it a memorable dish that you’ll want to whip up time and again. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (spaghetti or your choice): Any pasta will do, but I love the way spaghetti twirls around the fork.
- 250g halloumi cheese, sliced: This cheese adds a delightful salty crunch that perfectly complements the pasta.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A must for cooking and adding flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon: This is where the magic happens; it brightens up the entire dish!
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they add a wonderful burst of flavor.
- 1 cup baby spinach: Fresh greens are always a good idea!
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: They add a lovely aroma and a pop of color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional): Because who doesn’t love cheese?
How to Make Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Halloumi: In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Spinach and Halloumi: Stir in the baby spinach and crispy halloumi. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious crispy halloumi pasta with lemon zest!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun ideas:
- Swap out the pasta for whole grain or gluten-free varieties.
- Add some heat with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- For a protein boost, toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to make sure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the halloumi; this helps it get that perfect crispy texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- If you’re making this ahead of time, keep the halloumi separate until serving to maintain its crispiness.
How to Store Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
If you have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my kitchen), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to help loosen the pasta.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cheese instead of halloumi? Yes! Feta or goat cheese can be great alternatives, though they will have different textures.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Just keep the halloumi separate until you’re ready to eat.
- Can I add more vegetables? Yes! Feel free to add any veggies you love.
This Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest is not just a meal; it is a delightful experience that combines flavor and simplicity in every bite. For more delicious recipes, check out these Twix cookie cups or this decadent butterscotch pudding for treats you will love!
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Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
There's something so comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s topped with crispy halloumi and a burst of lemony freshness. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of halloumi cheese and bright lemon zest, making it a memorable dish that you’ll want to whip up time and again.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: In a non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Step 4: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 5: Stir in the baby spinach and crispy halloumi. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Step 6: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious crispy halloumi pasta with lemon zest!
Notes
If you have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence in my kitchen), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to help loosen the pasta.
