Go Back
+ servings
Simple Crispy Rice Salad with Halloumi

Simple Crispy Rice Salad with Halloumi for a Fresh Twist

A refreshing Simple Crispy Rice Salad with Halloumi that combines crunchy rice, savory cheese, and vibrant vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Rice
  • 2 cups Cold Cooked Jasmine Rice Ensure it's chilled for optimal texture.
  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil or Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil.
  • 1 tbsp Tomato Paste or Red Pepper Paste Consider using roasted red pepper paste for extra flavor.
  • 1 pinch Salt Adjust according to taste.
For the Main Ingredients
  • 9 oz Halloumi Cheese Try flavored versions like jalapeño for a twist.
  • 1/4 cup Raw Unsalted Almonds Coarsely chopped, walnuts can be used as a substitute.
  • small Unsalted Butter Can replace with neutral oil.
  • 3 Persian Cucumbers Thinly sliced, feel free to use any cucumber variety.
  • 8 cups Green Cabbage or Coleslaw Mix Purple cabbage adds vibrant color.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Thin strips; green onions or shallots work well as substitutes.
  • handful Fresh Parsley, Cilantro, or Mint Choose herbs based on your preference.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Tahini Sunflower seed butter works for allergy-friendly options.
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Honey, Maple Syrup, or Brown Sugar Agave syrup can be an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice or White Wine Vinegar More lemon juice deepens the flavor.
  • 1 tsp Sriracha Omit if you prefer a milder taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Sumac Lemon zest is a bright substitute.
  • Salt & Black Pepper Essential for seasoning the dressing.
  • Water For thinning dressing as needed.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Medium bowl
  • Large Serving Bowl
  • Small Pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of cold cooked jasmine rice with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and spread the rice mixture into the fryer basket. Cook for about 12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice turns golden and crispy.
  2. While the crispy rice is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of tahini and a splash of hot water until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of sriracha to the mix. Stir in a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground sumac for added flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
  3. In a large serving bowl, create a colorful base by layering 8 cups of shredded green cabbage or coleslaw mix. Add thinly sliced Persian cucumbers and 1/4 cup of red onion to bring freshness and crunch. Toss in a handful of chopped parsley and mint for an aromatic twist.
  4. In a small pan over medium heat, melt a small piece of unsalted butter with a dash of olive oil. Once melted, add 1/4 cup of coarsely chopped almonds and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant.
  5. Heat the same pan over medium heat and add slices from a 9 oz package of halloumi cheese. Fry the halloumi pieces for about 30 seconds on each side until they turn golden brown. Drizzle a small amount of honey over the cheese while cooking to enhance its flavor.
  6. To assemble, place the crispy rice on top of the layered vegetables in the serving bowl. Sprinkle the toasted almonds for crunch, then drizzle the creamy dressing generously over the entire salad. Finally, elegantly arrange the fried halloumi atop the salad and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill the rice before preparing, layer the ingredients just before serving to maintain texture, and adjust dressing consistency as needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!