Herb-Crusted Halloumi And Roasted Beet Salad With Farro

Pan-fried halloumi with a crispy herb crust served over warm farro with roasted beets, arugula, and a light yogurt dressing for a satisfying, blood-sugar-friendly meal.

Ingredients

  • 200g halloumi, cut into 8mm slices
  • 200g farro
  • 300g beets, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 100g arugula
  • 3 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 100g low-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 500ml vegetable stock or water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Toss beet wedges with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

  2. Cook farro in vegetable stock for 25-30 minutes until tender but still slightly chewy. Drain and set aside.

  3. Mix fresh parsley, dill, and thyme together on a plate. Place beaten egg in one shallow bowl and whole wheat flour in another.

  4. Pat halloumi slices dry. Coat each slice in flour, then egg, then press firmly into the herb mixture on both sides.

  5. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry herb-crusted halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

  6. Whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper to make dressing.

  7. Divide warm farro between two bowls. Top with roasted beets, arugula, and herb-crusted halloumi. Drizzle with yogurt dressing.

Notes

Halloumi has a high melting point, making it perfect for pan-frying while maintaining its shape. The farro provides sustained energy without blood sugar spikes. Prepare beets ahead to save time.

Variations

  • Replace farro with pearl barley for similar blood-sugar benefits
  • Add roasted cherry tomatoes alongside the beets
  • Substitute dill and thyme with fresh mint and oregano
  • Serve with a side of steamed green beans instead of arugula
  • Use low-fat cottage cheese mixed with yogurt for extra creaminess

Calories Estimate

Ingredient Portion Calories
Halloumi 200g 520
Farro 200g cooked 330
Beets 300g roasted 105
Arugula 100g 25
Olive oil 2 tbsp 180
Egg 1 78
Greek yogurt 100g 65
Herbs & seasonings mixed 10