Isn’t it wonderful when the simplest ingredients come together to create something extraordinary? The first time I tasted Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey, I was instantly transported to a sun-drenched terrace, savoring the perfect combination of sweet and savory. The creamy, charred halloumi paired with the luscious burst of apricots and a drizzle of honey felt like a celebration on my plate.
After a particularly long day, I found comfort in this quick yet elegant dish. With just 25 minutes, I transformed ordinary ingredients into an impressive centerpiece perfect for sharing with friends or indulging solo. Imagine pulling this masterpiece from the oven, with golden halloumi glistening under a tantalizing harissa glaze, surrounded by soft, caramelized apricots. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds! So, if you’re ready to spark joy in your kitchen and ditch the fast food routine, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why love Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey?
Simplicity at its finest: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet dish that wows without complicating your evening.
Sweet and savory delight: The harmonious blend of creamy halloumi with the juicy apricots, finished with a drizzle of honey, creates an explosion of flavors.
Impressive presentation: This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks gorgeous on any table, perfect for impressing guests or a special date night.
Versatile serving options: Pair it with crusty bread, serve it as a warm salad, or enjoy it on its own – this recipe adapts easily to any meal.
Crowd pleaser: Whether for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, you’re guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds!
Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey Ingredients
For the Halloumi
• halloumi – a 225g block; this cheese’s creamy texture is perfect for baking and grilling.
For the Apricot Base
• apricots – 6 ripe apricots; their sweetness caramelizes beautifully when baked.
• olive oil – 1.5 tablespoons; helps to enhance the flavor of the apricots.
For the Flavor Boost
• harissa paste – 1 tablespoon; adds a spicy kick that’s delightful with the sweet apricots.
• honey – 1 tablespoon; a natural sweetener that balances the dish’s flavors.
• lemon juice – 1 tablespoon; provides acidity that brightens the overall taste.
For Garnishing
• scallion – 1, thinly sliced; adds a fresh, crunchy element to the final dish.
• thyme leaves – 1 tablespoon, fresh; this herb complements both the halloumi and apricots perfectly.
Prepare to create a delicious tray of Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey that will have everyone raving at your table!
How to Make Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C fan) for optimal baking. This is the perfect temperature for softening the apricots while giving the halloumi a beautiful char.
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Slice the apricots: Halve the apricots, remove the stones, and cut them into thick slices. Arrange them in a small oven dish, drizzle with ½ tablespoon of olive oil, and toss well to coat. Bake for 10 minutes until slightly soft.
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Prep the halloumi: While the apricots bake, take your block of halloumi and carefully make diagonal cuts down the block, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. Rotate and repeat to create a criss-cross pattern, allowing for that delightful flavor infusion.
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Add the halloumi: Once the apricots are out of the oven, place the halloumi in the center of the dish. Drizzle with an additional 1 tablespoon of olive oil and massage it into the cuts for maximum flavor. Now, broil on high for about 8 minutes, or until the halloumi is charred and golden.
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Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, blend the harissa paste, honey, and lemon juice. Set aside for a moment; this sweet-spicy mixture is the perfect jazz-up for your dish!
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Combine and garnish: After broiling, remove the dish from the oven. Drizzle the harissa sauce over the halloumi and apricots, then scatter thyme leaves and curly scallions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey Variations
Feel free to elevate this dish with delightful twists that tickle your taste buds and surprise your guests!
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top before broiling for extra heat. Combine the sweet and spicy for a palate-pleasing explosion.
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Fruit Fiesta: Swap apricots for peaches or figs for a seasonal twist. Each fruit offers a unique sweetness, making each version a delightful surprise.
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Herb Infusion: Try using fresh basil or mint instead of thyme. This fresh herb sensation brightens your dish, adding a floral note that dances on the palate.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving for an irresistible crunch. The contrast in texture enhances the experience, creating a delightful bite.
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Vegan Version: Substitute halloumi with firm tofu marinated in olive oil, and it’ll soak up all the delicious flavors beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to make this dish plant-based!
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze additional lemon or orange juice over the top before serving for a zesty finish. This bright touch lifts flavors and adds a refreshing balance.
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Balsamic Drizzle: Replace honey with balsamic reduction for a tangy-sweet profile. This swap makes for a lovely aromatic shift, adding depth to the dish.
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Creamy Addition: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta before serving. This creamy element complements the sweet and savory ingredients beautifully.
Tips for the Best Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey
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Choose Ripe Apricots: Look for firm, slightly soft apricots for the best sweetness and texture; under-ripe or overripe won’t caramelize as well.
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Criss-cross Cuts: Remember to make deep cuts in the halloumi without slicing all the way through, ensuring that the flavors soak in beautifully as it bakes.
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Perfect Broiling: Watch your halloumi closely while broiling; it can burn quickly. Turn it when it’s just golden to get that perfect crust without a bitter taste.
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Glaze Variety: Feel free to adjust the harissa, honey, and lemon juice ratio to suit your taste. A little extra honey can enhance sweetness if you prefer!
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Serving Suggestions: Pair the dish with crusty bread or a fresh salad to elevate the meal. This Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey is versatile and can adapt to any side!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes during a busy weeknight! You can slice the apricots and combine them with the olive oil up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the harissa glaze and store it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the apricots, add the prepped halloumi, and broil as directed for delicious, hassle-free results that are just as enjoyable as if made fresh. This make-ahead approach allows you to savor every moment of your meal without the stress!
Storage Tips for Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors may meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. To do this, wrap the halloumi tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy again.
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Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain that lovely texture of the Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey.
What to Serve with Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey?
Imagine the delightful spread surrounding your delicious halloumi dish, each bite bringing a new layer of flavor and comfort.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf is perfect for soaking up the exquisite juices and flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds fresh contrast, balancing the richness of the halloumi beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini and bell peppers enhance texture and complement the sweetness of the apricots.
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Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with diced cucumbers and a zesty dressing offers hearty crunch, making the meal complete.
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Fruity White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Riesling pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish’s sweet and savory notes.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse brings a luscious finish, highlighting the sweetness of your meal while leaving guests delighted.
With these fantastic pairings, your Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey transforms into a memorable feast!
Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apricots for baking?
You want to look for ripe apricots that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch. Avoid ones with dark spots or those that feel overly mushy, as they might not caramelize well during baking. Perfect apricots will be slightly fragrant and golden in color!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, often making it even tastier the next day! Remember, it’s best enjoyed fresh but reheats beautifully.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the halloumi tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. You can freeze the entire dish for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil for moisture!
What if my halloumi doesn’t get golden and charred?
If you notice your halloumi isn’t developing that beautiful golden crust, it might need a bit more time under the broiler. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning! Also, make sure you’re using the broil function and that your oven is properly preheated.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! The recipe contains dairy from the halloumi, so if you have lactose intolerance, you might want to look for a lactose-free cheese or a similar alternative. Also, the harissa paste, while delicious, can be spicy; consider reducing the amount if you’re serving someone sensitive to heat.
What other ways can I enjoy this dish?
This recipe is wonderfully versatile! You could serve the Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey over a fresh salad, as a warm appetizer, or alongside some crusty bread for dipping. The more, the merrier! Get creative with your serving options!
Baked Whole Halloumi with Apricots and Honey: A Sweet Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C fan) for optimal baking.
- Slice the apricots: Halve the apricots, remove the stones, and cut them into thick slices. Arrange them in a small oven dish, drizzle with ½ tablespoon of olive oil, and toss well to coat. Bake for 10 minutes until slightly soft.
- Prep the halloumi: While the apricots bake, take your block of halloumi and carefully make diagonal cuts down the block, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
- Add the halloumi: Once the apricots are out of the oven, place the halloumi in the center of the dish. Drizzle with an additional 1 tablespoon of olive oil and massage it into the cuts.
- Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, blend the harissa paste, honey, and lemon juice. Set aside for a moment.
- Combine and garnish: After broiling, remove the dish from the oven. Drizzle the harissa sauce over the halloumi and apricots, then scatter thyme leaves and curly scallions on top.