Halloumi Sandwich (with Avocado Pesto!)

This Halloumi Sandwich with Avocado Pesto is a delightful, hearty vegetarian option that's perfect for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner. Combining the creamy richness of homemade avocado pesto with crispy, golden pan-fried halloumi cheese, this sandwich is both refreshing and indulgent. The fresh vegetables and toasted bread rolls round out the textures and flavors, making each bite irresistible. It’s a fusion of Mediterranean flair with modern healthy ingredients, delivering a meal that's easy to prepare yet feels gourmet. Whether you're looking for a meatless Monday option or just want to elevate your sandwich game, this one checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

For the Avocado Pesto:

• 1 large ripe avocado, peeled and pitted

• 1 small bunch fresh basil (about 30g)

• 1/3 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 tablespoons pine nuts

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 small garlic clove, peeled

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  
  

For the Sandwich:

• 4 bread rolls (seeded Vienna rolls or similar)

• 2 blocks halloumi cheese (225g each), sliced into 8 wedges each (16 total slices)

• 3 medium tomatoes, sliced

• 2 small red onions, thinly sliced (optional)

• 4 handfuls rocket (arugula)
  
  

Instructions

1. Make the Avocado Pesto
In a food processor, combine avocado, basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

2. Cook the Halloumi
Pat the halloumi slices dry. Heat a non-stick or lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Fry the slices for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.

3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Slice the bread rolls in half. Spread a generous layer of avocado pesto on the bottom half. Add 4 slices of halloumi, tomato slices, red onion if using, and a handful of rocket. Top with the other half of the roll.

4. Serve
Serve warm so the halloumi remains soft and melty. Pair with crisps, a salad, or sweet potato fries for a fuller meal.

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is best eaten fresh, right after assembly, while the halloumi is still warm and slightly gooey. For an extra crunchy bite, toast the rolls before assembling. You can also add roasted red peppers or cucumber slices for more texture. For side dishes, try a cucumber mint salad, roasted vegetable chips, or a zesty couscous bowl.

Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich)

• Calories: 687 kcal

• Fat: 48.5g

  • Saturated Fat: 18.7g

• Carbohydrates: 36g

  • Fiber: 5.7g

  • Sugars: 8.6g

• Protein: 29g

• Sodium: 1504mg

• Calcium: 820mg

• Potassium: 667mg

• Vitamin A: 1886 IU

• Vitamin C: 18.8mg

• Iron: 2.55mg
  
  

Note: Nutritional values are estimated and may vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands used.