Za'atar Marinated Tomatoes with Fried halloumi
Za'atar Marinated Tomatoes with fried halloumi, hummus, and grilled pita. This simple tomato salad is inspired by flavors of the Mediterranean and comes together in less than 30 minutes. The perfect summer appetizer or side dish!
Servings: 6
Equipment
- Medium skillet
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. mixed tomatoes (I use a combination of heirloom tomatoes and cherry tomatoes)
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp. seasoned rice vinegar*
- 2 grated garlic cloves
- 1 Tbsp. za'atar spice blend
- 1/2 tsp. sea salt
- 1 to 2 tsp. capers (optional)
- 6 oz. halloumi cheese
- 1 to 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh chives
For Serving
- Plain or roasted garlic hummus (homemade or store-bought)
- Pita or naan bread, grilled or warmed*
Instructions
- Slice heirloom tomatoes into wedges, and cherry tomatoes into halves. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, za'atar, and salt; mix well. Add tomatoes and toss to combine. Let sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes, tossing occassionally.
- Cut the halloumi into 1/2-inch thick slices and pat dry with a paper towel. Heat 1 to 2 Tbsp. neutral cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high. Once hot, add the halloumi slices and cook until deeply golden, about 2 minutes per side. Watch closely to avoid burning or melting.Transfer halloumi to a cutting board and cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Spread hummus on a large plate or serving platter. Spoon marinated tomatoes and capers overtop, and scatter halloumi chunks over tomatoes. Garnish with fresh chopped chives and cracked black pepper. Serve with warm pita or naan bread.
Notes
*Make sure to use seasoned rice vinegar, which is lightly sweetened. Alternatively, use standard rice vinegar with a pinch of granulated sugar.
*You can grill or warm the pita/naan breads in a cast-iron skillet, grill pan, or over the flames of a gas range or grill.
*Nutrition facts include 1/3 cup hummus and 2 naan breads.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 270kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 440mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g