As I stood by the stove, the enticing aroma of sizzling garlic and sundried tomatoes took me on a whirlwind trip to a cozy Italian bistro. I couldn’t wait to share this Creamy Marry Me Halloumi with you—a delightful vegetarian twist on the beloved “marry me chicken.” It’s not just a dish; it’s a quick and comforting meal that elevates any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With perfectly grilled halloumi nestled into a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will make you want to linger at the table a little longer. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking to spice up your cooking routine, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite. Ready to learn how to impress your loved ones with a dish that could sweep anyone off their feet? Let’s dive in! Why Choose Marry Me Halloumi? It’s a Showstopper: This dish combines the charm of classic Italian flavors with a unique vegetarian twist, making it perfect for impressing guests or family. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this culinary delight in no time—ideal for busy weeknights! Creamy Dreaminess: The rich sundried tomato sauce envelops the halloumi in luscious creaminess, creating a truly decadent experience. Versatile Pairings: Couple it with jasmine rice or roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal that adapts to any occasion. For more crowd-pleasing recipes like these, check out my Marry Chicken Hearty. Rich Nutritional Value: Packed with calcium and protein, this dish not only delights the taste buds but also nourishes the body. You won’t regret bringing this winner to your table! Marry Me Halloumi Ingredients • Get ready to create magic with these delicious ingredients! For the Sauce Olive Oil – Use oil from the sundried tomato jar for added flavor. Red Onion (½, finely diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Garlic (3 cloves, crushed) – Contributes aromatic flavor to the dish. Red Pepper or Chili Flakes (¼ tsp, to taste) – Adds the perfect touch of heat. Smoked Paprika (¼ tsp) – Supplies a smoky flavor profile that elevates the sauce. Italian Herbs/Seasoning (2 tsp) – Enhances the overall seasoning. Sundried Tomatoes (⅓ cup / 140 g, chopped) – Key ingredient for the sauce; measure based on jar size. Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Intensifies the tomato flavor, making it richer. Vegetable Broth (⅔ cup / 160 ml) – Acts as the base liquid for the sauce. Heavy Cream (⅔ cup / 160 ml) – Adds richness to the creamy sauce. Parmesan Style Cheese (¾ cup / 80 g, grated) – Provides a cheesy depth that complements the halloumi. Basil (small bunch, chopped) – Fresh flavor to brighten up the sauce. Baby Spinach (1 handful) – Adds nutrients and is wilted into the sauce. For the Halloumi Halloumi Cheese (8 oz / 225 g) – Main protein source, sliced into pieces; grilling enhances texture. For Serving Lemon Wedges – Squeeze over the dish for a zesty flavor boost. With these ingredients for your Marry Me Halloumi, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a delightful twist on a beloved classic! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Halloumi Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a deep saucepan over low-medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely diced red onion and sauté for about 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent, allowing the fragrance to fill your kitchen and set the foundation for the delicious sauce. Step 2: Add the Flavor Boosters Stir in the crushed garlic, red pepper or chili flakes, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until aromatic. Follow this by adding the chopped sundried tomatoes, mixing thoroughly to let the rich sun-dried flavor meld beautifully with the aromatics, creating a vibrant sauce base. Step 3: Intensify the Sauce Incorporate the tomato paste into the mixture, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes. This step will deepen the tomato taste and help integrate all the ingredients. Watch for the sauce to slightly darken in color, signaling it’s time to add the next ingredients. Step 4: Simmer to Perfection Pour in the vegetable broth, stir carefully, and cover the saucepan partially with a lid. Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. This process will let the flavors steep and develop, resulting in a deliciously rich sauce perfect for your Marry Me Halloumi. Step 5: Grill the Halloumi While the sauce simmers, heat a grill pan over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi cheese, grilling for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and perfectly crisp. Keep an eye out for a beautiful golden crust to form, which will add an irresistible texture to this dish. Step 6: Add Fresh Ingredients Once your sauce has simmered, fold in the baby spinach and chopped basil. Stir gently until the spinach wilts, showcasing a vibrant green hue with the sauce. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your Marry Me Halloumi. Step 7: Create the Creamy Finish Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until well combined. Next, add the grated Parmesan-style cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture that envelops the halloumi beautifully. Let it simmer gently for an additional 2–3 minutes, improving the flavor. Step 8: Serve with Zest To plate, place the golden halloumi slices atop a generous helping of the creamy sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side, encouraging a fresh squeeze over the dish for an added zest that will brighten every bite of your delicious Marry Me Halloumi. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Marry Me Halloumi with Sundried Tomato Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the steps to sauté the aromatics and simmer the sauce, then let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy! For the halloumi, slice it ahead of time and store in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the halloumi fresh, heat up the sauce gently (stirring to prevent sticking), and combine for a dish that’s just as delicious as if it were made that day. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor! How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Halloumi Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain the creamy texture without overcooking the halloumi. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately from the halloumi in freezer-safe containers. The sauce can last up to 3 months, while the halloumi is best enjoyed fresh. Reheating: If frozen, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge before reheating. Heat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream for a creamy consistency. Serving Tip: When ready to serve, heat the halloumi until warmed through and place it atop the reheated sauce, adding a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness. What to Serve with Creamy Marry Me Halloumi? A delightful meal deserves perfect companions, enhancing the flavors and creating a beautiful balance on your plate. Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they provide a heartier texture that pairs well with the saucy halloumi. Garlic Bread: Its crusty exterior and soft, buttery inside make it ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, brightening your meal’s overall experience. Steamed Broccoli: Its subtle bitterness balances the rich flavors of the halloumi, ensuring each bite is deliciously wholesome. Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly brings a festive touch, enhancing the overall dining experience and complementing the dish’s flavors. Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light dessert that contrasts the savory dish, promising a delightful conclusion to your meal. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that ties beautifully with the lemon wedges served with Marry Me Halloumi, brightening every bite. Expert Tips for Marry Me Halloumi Grill with Care: Avoid overcooking halloumi by grilling just until golden brown; it should remain soft inside for the best texture. Flavor Adjustments: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt levels based on the broth’s salinity; you want a balanced flavor. Proper Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain the creamy consistency. Garnish Wisely: Don’t skip the lemon wedges; a squeeze of lemon enhances the richness of the Marry Me Halloumi and brightens the dish. Experiment with Cheeses: If halloumi isn’t available, try melting cheeses like feta or a plant-based alternative for a delicious variation! Marry Me Halloumi Variations Feel free to get creative with your creamy Marry Me Halloumi—there are plenty of ways to put a personal spin on this delightful dish! Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan option. This twist makes it accessible for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing creaminess. Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic lift. These herbs will complement the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully, adding depth to each bite. Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes or add diced jalapeños for a fiery version. A hint of heat might just ignite a new love affair with this dish! Roasted Veggie Delight: Toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. These colorful additions not only boost nutrition but also create a heartier meal. Tomato Variation: Swap out the sundried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes for a lighter sauce. This option brings a burst of freshness and a juicy contrast to the creamy elements. Texture Twist: Instead of grilling, try baking the halloumi for a crispy outer layer while keeping a soft inside. This cooking method gives your dish an entirely new texture, perfect for those who love a bit of crunch. Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a savory crunch. These nuts will add a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce and balance the flavors beautifully. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp alongside the halloumi for a protein-packed meal. This option transforms your dish into a more substantial serving, ideal for heartier appetites. For more delightful twists on the classic flavor, don’t forget to check out my Marry Chicken Hearty recipes! Enjoy customizing your dish! Marry Me Halloumi Recipe FAQs What type of halloumi is best for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for high-quality halloumi that’s not too soft or overripe. The best halloumi will be slightly firm and have a smooth texture with minimal dark spots. I recommend checking the expiration date and choosing a cheese that feels fresh to ensure luscious grilling and a fantastic flavor in your dish. How should I store leftovers ofMarry Me Halloumi? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat gently, either on the stovetop or in the microwave, to keep the halloumi from getting tough. A splash of cream or broth during reheating can help restore some creaminess to the sauce! Can I freeze Marry Me Halloumi? Yes! To freeze, separate the sauce from the halloumi. The sauce can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge, heat gently, and then grill the halloumi fresh. Freezing halloumi itself is not recommended, as it tends to change texture upon thawing. What if my sauce is too thick or too thin? Very! If your sauce ends up too thick, simply add a little more vegetable broth or cream to loosen it up while heating. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to cook off excess liquid. Stirring frequently can help ensure even cooking, and don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Yes, it’s wise to consider allergens! Halloumi is a cheese made from sheep’s milk, so it may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. For a plant-based option, substitute halloumi with a plant-based cheese that melts well. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially on store-bought items like broth and sauces, to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Can I adapt Marry Me Halloumi for kids? Certainly! Kids often enjoy milder flavors, so you can decrease the amount of red pepper flakes or chili for less heat. Additionally, consider adding more veggies, like finely chopped carrots or zucchini, to introduce extra nutrients and a sweetness they might love. Adjusting the presentation by serving it in fun shapes or colorful arrangements can make it even more appealing! Irresistible Marry Me Halloumi with Creamy Tomato Sauce This Marry Me Halloumi is a quick and satisfying vegetarian dish with creamy tomato sauce, perfect for impressing guests or enhancing weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 2 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1 tbsp Olive Oil Use oil from the sundried tomato jar for added flavor.0.5 pieces Red Onion finely diced3 cloves Garlic crushed0.25 tsp Red Pepper or Chili Flakes to taste0.25 tsp Smoked Paprika2 tsp Italian Herbs/Seasoning0.33 cup Sundried Tomatoes chopped2 tbsp Tomato Paste0.67 cup Vegetable Broth0.67 cup Heavy Cream0.75 cup Parmesan Style Cheese grated1 bunch Basil chopped1 handful Baby SpinachFor the Halloumi8 oz Halloumi Cheese sliced into piecesFor Serving1 pieces Lemon Wedges Equipment Deep saucepanGrill Pan Method Cooking StepsHeat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a deep saucepan over low-medium heat. Add the finely diced red onion and sauté for about 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.Stir in the crushed garlic, red pepper or chili flakes, smoked paprika, and Italian herbs. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until aromatic.Incorporate the tomato paste into the mixture, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes.Pour in the vegetable broth, stir carefully, and cover the saucepan partially with a lid. Allow the sauce to simmer for approximately 10 minutes on low heat.While the sauce simmers, heat a grill pan over medium heat. Add the sliced halloumi cheese, grilling for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.Once your sauce has simmered, fold in the baby spinach and chopped basil. Stir gently until the spinach wilts.Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until well combined. Add the grated Parmesan-style cheese.To plate, place the golden halloumi slices atop a generous helping of the creamy sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg NotesGrill halloumi until golden brown; it should remain soft inside for the best texture. Adjust salt levels based on broth’s salinity. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
