Grilled Halloumi Greek Bowl with Tzatziki & Veggies

Grilled Halloumi Greek Bowl with Tzatziki & Veggies

This Grilled Halloumi Greek Bowl is a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty grains, and golden-seared halloumi cheese—all brought together with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. Each component adds something special: the tangy chew of halloumi, the cool creaminess of tzatziki, and the freshness of lemony veggies and herbs.

Perfect for a light yet filling lunch or dinner, this bowl is vegetarian, protein-rich, and can be easily customized. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, combining everything you love about a Greek mezze platter into one colorful bowl.

Time Required

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Grilled Halloumi:

7 oz (200g) halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick slabs

1 tsp olive oil

Optional: a sprinkle of dried oregano or chili flakes

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

½ small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint

Salt, to taste

For the Veggie Bowl:

1 cup cooked quinoa, couscous, bulgur, or brown rice

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup cucumber, diced

¼ red onion, thinly sliced

¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted

¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

½ red or yellow bell pepper, diced or grilled

Handful of arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens

Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tzatziki

In a bowl, combine grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill or mint, and a pinch of salt.

Mix well and chill in the fridge to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook Your Grain Base

Prepare your chosen grain (quinoa, couscous, rice) according to package instructions. Fluff and season lightly with salt and a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 3: Grill the Halloumi

Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Brush halloumi slices lightly with olive oil.

Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Sprinkle with dried oregano if desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In bowls, add a base of cooked grains.

Arrange the veggies (tomatoes, cucumber, onion, peppers, olives, greens) neatly on top.

Add grilled halloumi slices and a dollop or swirl of tzatziki.

Top with crumbled feta (if using), fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips for Success

Dry the halloumi before grilling to ensure a crisp sear.

Use a hot pan to prevent the halloumi from sticking.

Drain the cucumber well for the creamiest tzatziki.

Make tzatziki ahead for even better flavor.

Customize the grain base—bulgur adds nuttiness, couscous is fluffy, quinoa adds protein.

Variations

Vegan: Use vegan halloumi or tofu and dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.

Add roasted veggies: Like eggplant, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.

Add chickpeas: Roasted or plain for extra protein.

Mediterranean Chicken Bowl: Swap halloumi with grilled lemon-herb chicken for a meaty version.

Spicy twist: Add harissa or chili oil drizzle.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare all components separately and assemble when ready. Halloumi is best fresh but can be reheated briefly in a pan.

Q: What does halloumi taste like?
A: It’s salty, firm, and slightly tangy—deliciously chewy when grilled or pan-seared.

Q: Can I substitute halloumi?
A: Yes. Try paneer, feta (raw), or even grilled tofu for a similar texture and taste.

Q: Is tzatziki optional?
A: While optional, it adds great moisture and flavor. Hummus or tahini sauce are good alternatives.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Will vary slightly depending on grains and toppings used.)

Conclusion

The Grilled Halloumi Greek Bowl with Tzatziki & Veggies is a shining example of how Mediterranean ingredients come together to form a nourishing, flavorful, and visually stunning meal. With its crunchy-seared cheese, fresh herbs, and creamy yogurt sauce, this bowl satisfies every craving—crunch, creaminess, tang, and chew.

It’s easy to prep, endlessly versatile, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether for a weeknight dinner, lunchbox hero, or light weekend brunch.