Tzatziki / Grilled Halloumi with Kalamata Olives
Embark on a culinary journey to Greece with this fresh and vibrant dish that combines the creaminess of tzatziki, the delightful texture of grilled halloumi, and the rich flavor of Kalamata olives. Have you ever thought about how a simple dish can transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores? Let your taste buds revel in this delicious meal!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cucumber
- 400 g of yogurt
- 1 clove of garlic
- 4 – 5 leaves of mint
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 drizzle of olive oil
- Several turns of black pepper
For the Halloumi:
- 10 slices of Halloumi
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 sprigs of fresh oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Tzatziki:
- Peel and grate the cucumber, then place it in a strainer with a pinch of salt to drain excess water.
- Mash and mince the garlic.
- Finely chop the mint leaves.
- In a bowl, mix the yogurt, garlic, mint, salt, pepper, and lemon juice together well.
- Press the cucumber to remove as much water as possible, and add it to the yogurt mixture.
- Chill the tzatziki in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Halloumi:
- Place the Halloumi in a dish with olive oil and oregano, and marinate for 20 minutes.
- Heat a grill pan and grill the Halloumi for about 1 minute on each side until golden.
- On a shallow plate, spread a little tzatziki, place the grilled Halloumi on top.
- Add a handful of black olives and drizzle with olive oil.
- Serve with toasted sourdough bread.
Notes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing Greek salad or on its own as a light lunch.
Recipe Tips
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker tzatziki.
- For extra flavor, allow the tzatziki to marinate for a couple of hours before serving.
- You can substitute fresh mint with dill if preferred.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 300 calories per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make tzatziki without garlic?
Yes, you can omit garlic if you’re not a fan, or substitute it with a dash of garlic powder for a milder flavor.
2. How long can I store tzatziki in the fridge?
It can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. What can I serve with this recipe?
This dish is great as an appetizer or side dish. Serve it with a fresh Greek salad or grilled vegetables.
4. Can I use goat cheese instead of Halloumi?
Yes, goat cheese is a delicious alternative but will provide a different texture and flavor.
5. Is Tzatziki suitable for vegans?
Traditional Tzatziki is not vegan due to yogurt, but you can use a plant-based yogurt for a vegan version.