Step-by-step instructions
Bring water or vegetable broth to a boil and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir in the orzo pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
While the orzo is cooking, toss halloumi slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the halloumi slices and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
For the dressing, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle over the orzo mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Divide the orzo salad into your meal prep containers and top each portion with the fried halloumi. Feel free to add crumbled feta and extra parsley for garnish if you like!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Mediterranean bowls are visually stunning as well as delicious! To serve, simply layer the orzo and veggies at the bottom of a bowl, then place the crispy halloumi on top. They’re perfect on their own, but consider pairing them with a side of tzatziki or a simple green salad for added zest. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors.
How to store
To keep your Mediterranean Halloumi & Orzo Meal Prep Bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re planning to freeze the meal, though, it’s best to separate the halloumi from the orzo salad to maintain texture. Halloumi can lose its chewy quality after freezing. When reheating, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the orzo from drying out.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked or frozen halloumi to cut down on prep. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly before adding it to the bowls.
- Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or what’s seasonal. Zucchini, artichoke hearts, or even lightly sautéed spinach can add variety.
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika; it infuses a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the halloumi wonderfully.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas for variations on this recipe:
- Swap halloumi for grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a different protein boost.
- Experiment with different grains like quinoa or farro instead of orzo.
- Add a kick by including feta cheese, a dash of red chili flakes, or some roasted red peppers to the mix.
- For a vegan adaptation, replace halloumi with marinated tempeh or tofu, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare the Mediterranean Halloumi & Orzo Meal Prep Bowls?
From start to finish, it typically takes about 30 minutes to prepare these delicious meal prep bowls.
Can I substitute the halloumi cheese?
Absolutely! Feta, goat cheese, or even a plant-based cheese can be great alternatives, depending on your dietary preference.
How do I safely reheat leftovers?
When reheating, it’s best to use a microwave or stovetop and add a bit of olive oil or water to keep the orzo from drying out. Make sure to heat until everything is warmed through.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative, ensuring that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Feel free to let these Mediterranean Halloumi & Orzo Meal Prep Bowls become a staple in your kitchen! With their vibrant colors and delicious flavors, they are sure to delight both the palate and the eye.
