Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi with Greens and Garlicky Yogurt: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
If you’re seeking a dish that combines vibrant flavors, contrasting textures, and wholesome ingredients, look no further than this Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi with Greens and Garlicky Yogurt. Inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, this recipe brings together the saltiness of fried halloumi, the crunch of crispy chickpeas, the earthiness of wilted greens, and the tang of garlicky yogurt. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner, requiring minimal preparation and just one skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy: With a total prep time of just 25 minutes, this dish is ideal for those busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein from the chickpeas and halloumi, fiber from the greens, and probiotics from the yogurt, it’s a well-rounded meal that satisfies both taste and health.
3. Vegetarian-Friendly: This meatless recipe doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
Ingredients
For the Garlicky Yogurt:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Chickpeas and Halloumi:
• 1 pound halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick slabs
• 1 large bunch Swiss chard (or any leafy green of your choice)
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and patted dry
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Garlicky Yogurt:
• In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated garlic, and lemon juice.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Fry the Halloumi:
• Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place the halloumi slices in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 1 minute per side.
• Remove the halloumi and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
3. Prepare the Greens:
• Separate the Swiss chard leaves from the stems.
• Thinly slice the stems and roughly chop the leaves.
• Set aside.
4. Crisp the Chickpeas:
• In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the chickpeas, minced garlic, cumin seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes.
• Season with salt and black pepper.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are crispy and golden, about 10 minutes.
• Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chickpeas to a large serving bowl, leaving the residual oil in the skillet.
5. Sauté the Greens:
• Add the chopped chard stems to the skillet and sauté over medium-high heat until slightly softened, about 2 minutes.
• Add the chard leaves and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
• Season with salt and black pepper.
• Combine the sautéed greens with the crispy chickpeas in the serving bowl.
6. Assemble the Dish:
• Divide the chickpea and greens mixture among serving plates.
• Top with the fried halloumi slices.
• Drizzle with the garlicky yogurt sauce.
• Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
• Greens: Feel free to substitute Swiss chard with other leafy greens like kale, spinach, or collard greens, depending on your preference or availability.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat of the dish.
• Yogurt Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like mint or parsley to the garlicky yogurt.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with warm pita bread or a side of couscous to soak up the delicious flavors.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi with Greens and Garlicky Yogurt contains approximately 450 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal option.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chickpeas and Halloumi with Greens and Garlicky Yogurt recipe is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will elevate your dinner repertoire. It’s quick to prepare, nutritionally balanced, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress and become a household favorite.