I have to admit, when I first tried making this Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest Recipe, I wasn’t sure it would live up to the hype. But as soon as I tossed the golden, crunchy halloumi with the fresh pasta and zesty lemon, I knew I had discovered a new favorite.
The flavors are bright, the textures are playful, and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure comfort. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy yet is super easy to make at home. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to become a go-to weeknight dish for you too.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this vibrant, flavorful pasta:
- 8 oz pasta of your choice – I prefer short pasta like rigatoni or penne; it holds the sauce beautifully.
- 200 g halloumi cheese – Use fresh halloumi; the squeaky texture crisps up perfectly.
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced – Fresh, firm zucchinis provide a slight crunch and earthy flavor.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – A good-quality olive oil elevates every bite.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives an aromatic punch you just can’t get from jarred.
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice – Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, fresh flavor.
- Zest of 1 lemon – Adds a fragrant citrus lift that brightens the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential to balance all the flavors.
- Optional fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Note: Serves 2–3 people as a main dish.
Variations
You can easily customize this dish to fit different preferences:
- Swap halloumi with firm tofu for a vegan version.
- Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for more color and sweetness.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free without compromising taste.
- Sprinkle chili flakes if you like a subtle heat.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for crisping halloumi and sautéing vegetables.
- Grater – for zesting lemon to release its fragrant oils.
- Wooden spoon or tongs – for gently mixing pasta and ingredients.
How to Make Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s perfect for adjusting sauce consistency.
Step 2: Crisp the Halloumi
Slice the halloumi into thick pieces. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Zucchini
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Toss in the zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Veggies
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, tossing everything together gently. If needed, splash in reserved pasta water for a light, silky coating.
Step 5: Add Halloumi and Season
Return the crispy halloumi to the skillet and mix carefully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the flavors mingle for a minute before serving.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Transfer to serving bowls, sprinkle fresh parsley, and optionally extra lemon zest for a bright, appealing presentation.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- I like to lightly brush halloumi slices with olive oil before frying; it crisps more evenly.
- Make sure zucchini is fresh and firm; it prevents sogginess in the final dish.
- I always zest the lemon before juicing it; it’s easier to avoid including the bitter white pith.
- Taste as you go—I add a pinch of salt after combining pasta and lemon for perfect balance.
How to Serve Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest
This pasta is lovely on its own but shines with simple garnishes. I often serve it with a light drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a few extra lemon zest strands. For a special touch, pair with a crisp white wine or a light side salad with mixed greens.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 480 kcal – A balanced mix of pasta, cheese, and veggies.
- Protein: 18 g – Mainly from halloumi, great for satiety.
- Carbohydrates: 55 g – Provides energy from pasta.
- Fat: 20 g – Healthy fats from olive oil and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Halloumi doesn’t freeze well once cooked; store pasta without cheese for freezing.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crispy Halloumi Pasta with Lemon Zest isn’t just delicious—it’s practical too.
- Simple and quick – From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Flavor-packed – Crispy halloumi, zesty lemon, and fresh veggies make every bite exciting.
- Versatile – Easily customized with proteins, veggies, or vegan alternatives.
- Visually appealing – Bright, golden, and fresh, ideal for impressing guests.
- Comfort food with a twist – It’s indulgent yet fresh, combining texture and tang beautifully.