Mediterranean Chickpea and Halloumi Sheet Pan Dinner

Delicious, one-pan vegetarian meal that’s perfect for any weeknight.

In the hustle and bustle of family life, finding a meal that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare can often feel like a challenge. Enter the Mediterranean Chickpea and Halloumi Sheet Pan Dinner, a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and a colorful mix of ingredients. What makes it truly special is that it comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table without a lot of fuss, keep reading!

Halloumi cheese is a star ingredient in this recipe. Unlike other cheeses, when roasted, halloumi develops a lovely golden crust while remaining soft and chewy inside. This quality invites everyone at the table to enjoy its unique texture, making it a fun addition to any meal. Paired with the earthiness of chickpeas, a variety of seasonal vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean spices, this meal is nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Beyond its flavor profile, this recipe offers practical cooking benefits. With a prep and cooking time of about an hour, you’re left with plenty of time to relax while enjoying the wonderful scents wafting from your oven. And the all-in-one aspect allows you to solve the “what’s for dinner?” question without generating a pile of dishes.

As we dive into this recipe, let’s explore the vibrant ingredients and straightforward steps that will guide you toward a delicious family meal.

The key ingredients in this Mediterranean-inspired dish include:

1. Halloumi Cheese: Easily found in the dairy section of your grocery store, this firm cheese enhances the dish with its briny flavor. When looking for it, you may find halloumi alongside feta or in specialty cheese areas.
2. Chickpeas: Also known as garbanzo beans, these legumes bring heartiness and protein. A quick rinse and drain will prepare them for roasting, adding a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
3. Vegetables: A medley of cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion not only adds a pop of color but infuses the dish with a variety of nutrients. The tomatoes, when roasted, become juicy and sweet, creating a wonderful sauce that envelops the veggies and cheese.
4. Seasonings: A simple mix of garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper complements the ingredients, enhancing their natural flavors. The addition of olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice lifts the overall taste, giving it a bright finish.

To prepare this delightful sheet pan dinner, follow these easy steps:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This initial step is crucial for achieving that lovely roasted flavor. While the oven is warming, prepare a large sheet pan by lightly coating it with olive oil.

In a big bowl, combine the chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, diced red bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently until well-coated, then transfer to the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly.

Place the pan in the oven and allow the mixture to roast for about 15 minutes. This is when the vegetables start to soften and develop flavor. After 15 minutes, take the pan out and gently mix in cubes of halloumi. Return it to the oven and continue roasting until the halloumi is golden and the veggies are tender, typically around 25 minutes longer.

To finish, consider tossing a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately, and watch as your family delights in this vibrant, hearty meal.

This Mediterranean Chickpea and Halloumi Sheet Pan Dinner showcases not only delicious flavors but also versatility. You can easily adapt ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. For those who enjoy olives, adding them can introduce a delightful brininess to the dish. If herbs like basil or mint are available, they can add a refreshing twist as a garnish.

As with any recipe, leftovers can be a pleasant surprise. Enjoy them refrigerated for a few days, or freeze for a later time. Reheating in the oven ensures that the halloumi retains its delightful texture.

Creating meals that resonate with family and friends is what makes cooking so rewarding. This sheet pan dinner bridges the gap between quick preparation and wholesome nutrition, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly meal rotation. Cozy up with your loved ones and embrace the wonderful balance of flavors in this warming dish.

This article was independently written and reviewed by the Cozy Corner Daily editorial team. Learn more about our editorial guideline.

Read the original source