Herby Couscous + Grilled Halloumi w/ lemon-pepper sauce
When there’s halloumi on the plate, you just know summer is around the corner, and with summer comes my favourite past time — eating outdoors. This herby couscous and grilled halloumi with lemon-pepper sauce is the perfect meal to enjoy outside in the sunshine. Add to that a chilled glass of Riesling and you’ve got yourself the perfect date. I only ask one thing in return…you have to invite me over!
Ingredients
340g pearl couscous
3 shallots, diced
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3 cups low sodium chicken or veggie broth
200g halloumi, cut into strips
Honey for drizzling
1½ cups chopped herbs (I’m using parsley and dill)
2 lemons
1½ tbsp olive oil, divided
¼ tsp salt
Pistachios for garnish (optional)
Lemon-Pepper Sauce Ingredients
1 shallot
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp chili flakes
1 whole roasted red pepper
¼ cup olive oil
Juice + zest of one lemon
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
Heat a dutch oven, or thick-bottom pot with lid, on medium heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil, shallots and sliced garlic. Cook until soft, about one minute. Add couscous and cook, constantly stirring, until lightly brown and toasted, about 3-4 minutes. Add broth and salt, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until tender but still a little firm, about 8 minutes.
While that cooks, heat a non-stick pan on medium-high heat. Add remaining ½ tbsp olive oil. When the oil is glossy, add halloumi and let cook until golden brown and crispy. Flip and repeat. Remove and drizzle with honey. Set aside.
By now the couscous should be done. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 2 mins. This will fluff up the couscous and allow it to soak up any remaining liquid.
While the couscous finishes, make the garlic pepper sauce. To a blender add shallot, garlic, chili flakes, roasted red pepper, olive oil, lemon juice + zest and salt. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
Finish the couscous with the juice of two lemons and the chopped herbs. Mix to combine, then plate. Lay out a bed of herby couscous, top with grilled halloumi and hot sauce. Finish with more herbs and chopped pistachios. Enjoy!
Tag me if you make it @stefsdinnerdate on Instagram and TikTok <3