Halloumi Sandwich (with Avocado Pesto!)

A Halloumi Sandwich with Avocado Pesto offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying lunch. The creamy avocado pesto pairs beautifully with the crispy, pan-fried halloumi, while fresh vegetables add crunch and freshness.

Ingredients

For the Avocado Pesto:

• 1 large ripe avocado, peeled and pitted

• 1 small bunch fresh basil (approximately 1 oz or 30g)

• 1/3 cup (30g) freshly 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 (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  
  

For the Sandwich:

• 4 bread rolls (such as seeded Vienna rolls)

• 2 blocks of halloumi cheese (8 oz or 225g each), sliced into 8 wedges per block (4 slices per sandwich)

• 3 medium tomatoes, sliced

• 2 small red onions, thinly sliced (optional)

• A handful of rocket (arugula) leaves
  
  

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocado Pesto:

• Combine the avocado, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a food processor.

• Pulse until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  
  

2. Cook the Halloumi:

• Pat halloumi slices dry with paper towels.

• Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.

• Fry the halloumi slices for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.

• Remove from the pan and set aside.
  
  

3. Assemble the Sandwiches:

• Slice the bread rolls in half and toast them if desired.

• Spread a generous layer of avocado pesto on the bottom half.

• Add four slices of fried halloumi.

• Top with tomato slices, optional red onion, and a handful of rocket leaves.

• Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll.
  
  

Serving and Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: One sandwich

• Calories per Serving: Approx. 687 kcal

• Fat: 48.5g

• Saturated Fat: 18.7g

• Carbohydrates: 36g

• Fiber: 5.7g

• Protein: 29g

• Sodium: 1504mg

• Potassium: 667mg

• Calcium: 820mg

• Iron: 2.55mg

• Vitamin A: 1886 IU

• Vitamin C: 18.8mg