Introduction
Fattouche salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that originates from the Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s celebrated for its mix of fresh vegetables, crispy bread, and a tangy dressing. The addition of halloumi cheese gives this salad a delightful twist, adding richness and flavor. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish, this Fattouche salad with halloumi is sure to please your palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 2 large tomatoes, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, sliced
– 1 cup radishes, sliced
– 1 bunch of parsley, chopped
– 1 cup of mint leaves, chopped
– 4 pieces of pita bread
– 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in French
– Temps de cuisson : 10 minutes
– Temps total : 30 minutes
– Portion : 4 personnes

Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Halloumi
Begin by cutting the halloumi cheese into slices. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the halloumi slices in the skillet without oil and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Salad Vegetables
While the halloumi is cooking, wash and prepare the salad vegetables. Chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, radishes, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Tear the parsley and mint leaves into small pieces.
Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, radishes, bell peppers, parsley, and mint. Toss everything together gently until well mixed.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.
Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
Assemble the Salad
Transfer the dressed salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Add the crispy halloumi slices on top.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately while the halloumi is still warm. Enjoy your delicious fattouche salad with halloumi!
Notes
Choosing Halloumi
Select a good quality halloumi cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as radicchio or carrots for added crunch and color.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing beforehand, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to keep the halloumi crispy and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a light meal on its own.

Cook techniques
Grilling Halloumi
To achieve a perfectly grilled halloumi, slice the cheese thickly to prevent it from melting. Preheat your grill or frying pan over medium-high heat, and cook the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Preparing the Vegetables
For the fattouche salad, chop your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure an even distribution of flavors in each bite. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and consider using a mandoline for thin slices of radishes or cucumbers.
Making the Dressing
To create a well-balanced vinaigrette, whisk together your chosen ingredients (such as olive oil, lemon juice, and spices) until emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference, ensuring a flavorful dressing to enhance the salad.
FAQ
Can I use other cheeses instead of halloumi?
Yes, while halloumi is traditional, you can substitute it with other firm cheeses like feta or a grilled cheese variant, but the flavor and texture will differ.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover fattouche salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
Is fattouche salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, fattouche salad is typically vegetarian-friendly, made with various vegetables, greens, and bread without any meat products.
Can I make the salad in advance?
You can prepare the components of the salad ahead of time, but it is recommended to combine them and add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy.

Conclusion
The Fattouche salad with halloumi is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and tangy dressing, enhanced by the addition of the salty, grilled halloumi cheese. This dish not only presents a burst of flavors but also offers a nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed as a main or a side. Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, promoting healthy eating habits without sacrificing taste.
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