📝 Introduction
This dish is a celebration of contrasts: crisped halloumi brings a satisfying saltiness, peaches offer natural sweetness, toasted almonds add a nutty crunch, and the lemon couscous ties everything together with its fresh citrus tang. It’s a quick and easy vegetarian dish that looks as good as it tastes—ideal for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cup boiling water or vegetable stock
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 200g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces
- 1 large ripe peach, sliced (or 2 small peaches)
- ¼ cup flaked almonds (or slivered almonds)
- A handful of fresh mint or parsley leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Optional: a handful of arugula or baby spinach for serving
🍽️ Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Couscous
- Place couscous in a heatproof bowl.
- Add boiling water or hot vegetable stock, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover with a plate or lid and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork once the liquid is absorbed.
Step 2: Toast the Almonds
- In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the almonds until golden and fragrant (2–3 minutes). Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Grill the Halloumi
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the halloumi slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove from heat and place on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Sear the Peaches
- In the same pan, lightly sear the peach slices for 1–2 minutes per side until caramelized and tender.
- Optional: Drizzle a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup for extra gloss and sweetness.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Spread the couscous on a serving plate or bowl.
- Top with grilled halloumi, peach slices, and toasted almonds.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and drizzle with a little more olive oil and/or honey if desired.
- Optional: Serve on a bed of arugula or spinach for added greens.
👩🍳 Method Summary
- Soak the couscous with lemon and seasonings.
- Toast the almonds until golden.
- Pan-fry the halloumi until crispy.
- Sear the peaches to enhance their sweetness.
- Assemble and garnish for a beautifully balanced dish.
✅ Tips & Variations
- Add a spoon of Greek yogurt or a dollop of hummus on top for creaminess.
- Swap peaches for nectarines, plums, or grilled figs in different seasons.
- Add roasted chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
Enjoy your Lemon Couscous with Halloumi, Toasted Almonds & Peach — it’s a bowl of sunshine that’s sure to impress!