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Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds

Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds is a delightful dish that combines warm roasted pumpkin, crispy halloumi, and creamy ricotta. It’s not just a salad; it’s a colorful and flavorful meal that can be served as a main course or a side. Perfect for any season, this salad is sure to brighten your table!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy yet delicious meal. The roasted pumpkin adds natural sweetness, while the chickpeas provide protein and a satisfying texture. Halloumi cheese brings a lovely saltiness and crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy whipped ricotta. It’s also easy to make and uses simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store.

How to Make Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds

Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and patted dry
1 tsp smoked paprika
200g halloumi, sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or mint) for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss the cubed pumpkin with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
In the last 10 minutes of roasting, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the halloumi slices. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
In a bowl, combine the whipped ricotta with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
In a large bowl, combine the roasted pumpkin, chickpeas, and halloumi. Add fresh herbs.
Serve the salad topped with a dollop of whipped ricotta.

How to Serve Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds

This salad can be served warm or at room temperature. It makes for a lovely main dish for lunch or dinner. You can also serve it as a side dish at gatherings or picnics. Garnish with fresh herbs to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Store Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Keep the whipped ricotta separate if you plan to have leftovers, so it maintains its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the salad just before serving.
You can grill the halloumi instead of frying for a different taste.
Feel free to add other veggies to the salad, such as spinach or arugula, for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad based on your preferences. Try swapping pumpkin for roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash, or use feta cheese instead of halloumi. Adding nuts like walnuts or pumpkin seeds can also give it a nice crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin and chickpeas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just heat them before serving and add fresh herbs and ricotta.

2. Is this salad vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian, as it contains no meat. It is a great option for vegetarians looking for a filling meal.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different cheese, you can use feta or goat cheese in place of halloumi for a different flavor profile.

Enjoy making and savoring your Golden Halloumi & Roasted Pumpkin Salad with Whipped Ricotta Clouds!