Description

This vegetarian delight takes inspiration from the famous "Marry Me Chicken," but swaps in halloumi for a creamy, dreamy dish that’s every bit as irresistible. The combination of garlic, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and parmesan creates a luscious sauce that’s said to win hearts at the dinner table. Quick to make and requiring only one pan, this meal is perfect for romantic evenings or casual gatherings. Serve it over pasta, rice, or pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete and indulgent feast. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a recipe you’ll fall in love with, time and time again.

Ingredients

• 225g reduced-fat halloumi cheese, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 240ml vegetable stock
• 120ml reduced-fat single cream
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan
• Handful of fresh spinach

Preparation Method

Begin by seasoning the sliced halloumi with salt and pepper. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add the halloumi slices. Cook them until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side, and then set them aside on a plate.

In the same pan, add a splash of olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onion until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook until they soften and release their juices, creating a vibrant base for the sauce.

Pour in the vegetable stock and let it simmer gently, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavor. Stir in the single cream, dried oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Sprinkle in the grated parmesan, stirring until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Add the fresh spinach, letting it wilt into the mixture. Finally, return the browned halloumi slices to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for 2 minutes, ensuring the halloumi absorbs some of the sauce’s flavors.

Tips and Conclusion

Pair this dish with al dente linguine, fluffy basmati rice, or warm crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. For a twist, add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra depth of flavor and a hint of spice. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently the next day.

"Marry Me Halloumi" is proof that vegetarian meals can be every bit as indulgent and satisfying as their meat-based counterparts. The creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the salty, golden halloumi, making it a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this recipe is an easy yet elegant choice. Try pairing it with another recipe from our collection, like roasted garlic potatoes or a simple green salad, for a meal you’ll come back to again and again. Don’t forget to share your creation and let us know how it turned out—we’d love to hear from you!