Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

Published: January 3, 2026

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lentils, chickpeas, and beets, this meal provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of creamy halloumi and zesty lemon enhances the overall taste profile.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or slightly cooled; it fits perfectly into any dining scenario.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing and enticing.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick frying pan
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick frying pan: Ensures even cooking of the halloumi without sticking, resulting in perfect grill marks.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients while preventing spills.

Ingredients

A refreshing meal option that combines vibrant colors and flavors, featuring halloumi cheese, lentils, chickpeas, and beets.

For the Base

½ cup cooked lentils
½ cup canned chickpeas, rinsed
½ cup roasted beetroot, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Halloumi

4 oz halloumi cheese, sliced

How to Make Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils and rinsed canned chickpeas.
Add the roasted beetroot into the mix.
Dress with olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Halloumi

Preheat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
Place slices of halloumi in the pan without overcrowding.
Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Plate Your Dish

Spoon the lentil-chickpea-beet mixture onto individual plates.
Add the grilled halloumi on top of each serving.
Drizzle any remaining dressing from the bowl over the top if desired.

Enjoy your vibrant creation warm or slightly cooled!

How to Serve Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

Serving Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas, and Beets can be both delightful and visually appealing. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Individual Plates

Serve the lentil-chickpea-beet mixture on individual plates for a personal touch. Top each plate with grilled halloumi for an attractive presentation.

Family Style

Present the dish in a large bowl at the center of the table. Allow guests to serve themselves, making it a perfect option for family gatherings or casual dinners.

With Fresh Greens

Pair the dish with a side of mixed greens or arugula. The fresh greens add crunch and freshness that complements the hearty flavors of the main dish.

Garnished with Herbs

Enhance the visual appeal by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

To create the best version of Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas, and Beets, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lentils, chickpeas, and beets will give your dish vibrant colors and delicious flavors.
Control cooking time: Ensure that you cook the halloumi just until it’s golden brown. Overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.
Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like cumin or coriander to your lentil mixture for enhanced flavor.
Serve warm or chilled: This dish can be enjoyed hot off the stove or slightly chilled, making it suitable for any occasion.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving adds richness and depth to the dish.
Pair with a citrus salad: A citrus salad on the side can brighten up your meal and complement the lemony notes in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to pair with Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas, and Beets.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic enhances flavors while providing additional nutrients.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds a nutritious element to your plate.
Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs pairs well by adding texture and aromatic qualities.
Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with pita bread creates a delightful appetizer that complements the main dish beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a crunchy contrast while keeping the meal light yet satisfying.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or veggies provide an eye-catching presentation alongside your main course.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini dressed in olive oil makes for a low-carb side that enhances the meal’s freshness.
Chickpea Salad: A simple chickpea salad mixed with diced tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs adds another layer of flavor while staying within theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s final outcome. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

Overcooking the Halloumi – Cooking halloumi for too long can result in a rubbery texture. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat to achieve a golden crust while keeping it soft inside.
Ignoring Seasoning – Failing to season your lentil and chickpea mixture can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs or spices for extra depth.
Using Raw Beets – Using raw beets instead of roasted ones can impact the dish’s taste and texture. Always roast the beets beforehand to enhance their sweetness and tenderness.
Not Rinsing Chickpeas – Skipping the rinsing step for canned chickpeas can lead to excess saltiness and unwanted flavors. Always rinse them under cold water before use.
Skipping the Dressing – Neglecting the olive oil and lemon dressing will result in a dry dish. Mix these ingredients well with your base for a burst of flavor.
Crowding the Pan – Overcrowding when cooking halloumi prevents proper browning, resulting in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain that crispy edge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
The dish will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

This dish is best consumed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Place in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s no excess air.

Reheating Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between intervals until warm.
Stovetop – Gently reheat over low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas, and Beets.

Can I substitute halloumi?

Yes, you can substitute halloumi with grilled goat cheese or feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I cook lentils properly?

Rinse lentils under cold water, then boil them in water or broth until tender—typically about 20-25 minutes depending on the type.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets makes an excellent meal prep option as it stores well and retains its flavors.

What can I add to enhance this dish?

Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or spices like cumin or paprika for added flavor complexity.

Can I make this dish vegan?

For a vegan version, simply replace halloumi with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it entirely while increasing lentils or chickpeas for protein.

Final Thoughts

Halloumi with Lemony Lentils, Chickpeas and Beets is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. This versatile dish can be customized by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any meal!

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