There’s something about a simple pasta dish that brings back memories of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, isn’t there? Maybe it’s the delightful aroma wafting through the air or the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that is not only easy and quick but also bursting with fresh flavors—Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest

Fast
Easy
Giftable
Crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

200g pasta (spaghetti or your choice) – I love using spaghetti, but any pasta you have on hand will work!
200g halloumi cheese, sliced – This cheese is the star of the show, providing a crispy and salty contrast.
2 tablespoons olive oil – A must for sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of sweetness and color.
Zest of 1 lemon – For that refreshing zing.
Juice of 1 lemon – This will brighten the dish beautifully.
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish – A fragrant touch that elevates the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) – Who doesn’t love a cheesy finish?

How to Make Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Crispy Halloumi: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, and toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Add Halloumi: Gently fold in the crispy halloumi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Substitutions & Additions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas:

Swap halloumi for feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add spinach or arugula for an extra dose of greens.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you nail this recipe:

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the halloumi; it needs space to get crispy.
Make sure to reserve enough pasta water; it helps create a silky sauce.
For a quick meal prep, chop your garlic and halve the tomatoes ahead of time.

How to Store Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try feta for a tangy flavor, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Is this dish vegetarian? Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly thanks to the halloumi cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance and cook it when you’re ready to eat.

I hope you enjoy making this Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest as much as I do! For more delicious recipes, check out French Onion Soup Pasta or Cheesy Sausage Penne for treats you will love!

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