Best Crispy Halloumi Recipe with Tomatoes and White Beans

Name: Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes and White Beans (Easy Mediterranean Dinner)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 225g (8 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 250g (9 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 can (400g / 14 oz) white beans (e.g., cannellini or butter beans), drained and rinsed; 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish); Pinch of chili flakes for heat; Handful of baby spinach or kale for extra greens

Jump to Recipe

This Crispy Halloumi with Tomatoes and White Beans recipe is perfect for a Mediterranean meal. Also, this quick and satisfying vegetarian dinner, Crispy halloumi recipe is packed with flavor, and protein, and is ready in less than 30 minutes. This hearty skillet dish features golden, pan-fried halloumi, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy white beans in a garlic-lemon sauce that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Halloumi — a hard, salty cheese that crunches beautifully in the pan — is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, and it takes center stage in this dish. Paired with fiber-rich cannellini beans (or any white bean of your choice) and naturally sweet cherry tomatoes, this recipe delivers a satisfying flavor without the need for meat or gluten. Also, this Fried Halloumi & Tomatoes with White Beans is a great high-protein vegetarian meal that even meat eaters will love.

This easy recipe will become a popular one for those following a gluten-free, meatless, or Mediterranean-style diet. It’s rich in texture, full of flavor, and easy to make with pantry staples. Serve it with crusty bread over quinoa, or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s a healthy comfort food. Halloumi doesn’t melt like most cheeses, making it ideal for pan-searing and achieving the perfect crispy golden crust.

Reasons To Love This Crispy Halloumi Recipe

This crispy halloumi with tomatoes and white beans is a wholesome, protein-packed, and vegetarian Mediterranean dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant weekend meals.

✅ One-Pan Wonder: Easy clean-up and all-in-one skillet meal makes cooking a breeze.
✅ High-Protein Vegetarian Dinner: Halloumi and white beans offer over 20g of protein per serving.
✅ Mediterranean-Inspired Flavors: Bursting with cherry tomatoes, garlic, lemon, and herbs.
✅ Gluten-Free & Family-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, budget-friendly, and kid-approved.
✅ Fast & Fuss-Free: Ready in just 25 minutes for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crispy Halloumi with Tomatoes and White Beans

This high-protein vegetarian recipe is made with simple, wholesome Mediterranean ingredients you likely already have at home. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meatless meal prep option!

🧀 Halloumi Cheese (8 oz)

Firm, salty, and perfect for frying until golden. A high-protein vegetarian cheese that won’t melt!

🍅 Cherry Tomatoes (1½ cups)

Juicy and sweet, they add color and burst with Mediterranean flavor. You can also use grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes.

White Beans (1 can, drained)

Creamy cannellini or great northern beans are perfect. Rich in fiber and plant-based protein.

🧄 Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced)

Adds a deep savory note. Garlic is also a great antioxidant!

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp)

For sautéing and crisping the halloumi. Use good-quality olive oil for best flavor.

🍋 Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)

Brightens the dish and balances the saltiness of the halloumi. Optional zest for extra zing.

🧂 Seasonings

Paprika, black pepper, salt (optional – halloumi is already salty), and red pepper flakes for a kick.

🌿 Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil)

Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for that authentic Mediterranean finish.

🔁 Try chickpeas instead of white beans or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version!

🥘 How to Make Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes and White Beans (Step-by-Step)

This easy one-pan halloumi dinner is loaded with Mediterranean flavor, protein, and fiber. Here’s how to prepare this crispy halloumi with tomatoes and creamy white beans recipe in under 30 minutes.

🔪 Step 1: Slice and Crisp the Halloumi

Cut your halloumi cheese into ½-inch thick slices. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture—this helps it get golden and crispy. In a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sear the slices in a tablespoon of olive oil for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Halloumi cheese frying in skillet until golden

🧄 Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Remove the halloumi and set aside. In the same skillet, add chopped garlic and onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened. This creates the perfect base for your Mediterranean-inspired sauce.

🍅 Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes and White Beans

Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and drained white beans (cannellini or navy beans work best). Season with sea salt, black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or za’atar. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and burst, creating a juicy, savory base.

White beans and cherry tomatoes simmering in a pan

🍋 Step 4: Return Halloumi & Finish with Lemon and Herbs

Add the crispy halloumi back into the skillet. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness and scatter over chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Let everything warm through for 1-2 minutes.

🍽️ Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your crispy halloumi and white beans over a bed of couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a touch more lemon juice if desired.

This healthy vegetarian meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even serving at a casual dinner party!

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing halloumi. Give each slice space for maximum golden crispiness.

🔪 Expert Tips & Flavorful Variations

Take your crispy halloumi with tomatoes and white beans to the next level by following these expert cooking tips and delicious Mediterranean-style twists. These tricks will enhance the flavor and ensure the perfect golden halloumi texture every time, especially for high-protein vegetarian meals, gluten-free dinners, and quick skillet recipes for a busy weeknight.

🔥 Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the halloumi cheese enough space to crisp up evenly without steaming.
🥬 Add leafy greens: Stir in spinach, kale, or arugula at the end for added color, nutrients, and freshness.
🌶️ Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a bold, smoky kick.
🌿 Explore seasonings: Swap paprika with za’atar, cumin, or oregano for a unique Mediterranean twist.
🥣 Try different legumes: Replace white beans with chickpeas, cannellini beans, or even lentils for a fiber-rich upgrade.
🧀 Don’t overcook the halloumi: Just 2–3 minutes per side is perfect—overcooking can make it chewy or rubbery.

💡 Pro Tip: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving to brighten the flavors and balance the saltiness of halloumi.

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🥗 What to Serve with Crispy Halloumi and Beans

Spice up your crispy halloumi with tomatoes and white beans by pairing it with these delicious and complementary side dishes. These options add texture, flavor, and nutrition every time for Mediterranean-inspired dinners and balanced vegetarian meal ideas.

🥖 Crusty Bread or Pita

A slice of sourdough, warm pita, or rustic multigrain bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato and bean sauce.

🍚 Quinoa or Couscous

For a gluten-free halloumi side dish, serve with fluffy quinoa or herbed couscous to soak up the Mediterranean flavors.

🥗 Fresh Arugula Salad

Add a peppery bite with arugula, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing, low-carb pairing.

🥣 Greek Yogurt or Tzatziki

A cool, creamy side like Greek tzatziki dip complements the salty crispiness of halloumi and adds probiotic benefits.

Looking for more Mediterranean pairing ideas? Check out these expert-recommended halloumi sides from Olive Magazine.

Suggested:

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🥗 Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips

Knowing how to properly store halloumi and reheat this Mediterranean dish is key to enjoying delicious leftovers. Whether you’re making this for vegetarian meal prep or saving extras, here’s how to keep everything tasting fresh and crispy.

🧊 How to Store Leftovers

Allow your crispy halloumi and white beans to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight glass container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. This prevents sogginess and keeps the beans fresh.

🔥 Best Way to Reheat Halloumi

For crispy results, reheat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the halloumi rubbery. A quick air fryer blast also works!

🥄 Meal Prep Ahead

This is a great make-ahead vegetarian dinner. You can prep the tomato and white bean base 2 days ahead. Store separately from the halloumi and cook the cheese fresh for best texture.

📦 Freezing Tips

While halloumi is best fresh, you can freeze the tomato and bean mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan before adding fresh-seared halloumi.

✨ Pro Tip: Add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice when reheating to revive flavors and keep the dish tasting vibrant.

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Yield: 4

Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes and White Beans (Easy Mediterranean Dinner)

Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes and White Beans is a simple, comforting vegetarian meal packed with protein, texture, and flavor. With just one skillet and under 30 minutes, it makes for an effortless yet elegant dinner. Ideal for Meatless Mondays, quick lunches, or when you want something satisfying without the fuss.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the main dish:

1 tbsp olive oil
225g (8 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
250g (9 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (400g / 14 oz) white beans (e.g., cannellini or butter beans), drained and rinsed
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional additions:

Pinch of chili flakes for heat
Handful of baby spinach or kale for extra greens

Instructions

Prep the ingredients:
Drain and rinse the white beans. Slice the halloumi and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Cook the halloumi:
Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the halloumi slices and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
Remove from the pan and set aside.

Sauté the aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped red onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and smoked paprika (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add tomatoes & beans:
Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften and burst.
Stir in the white beans and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.

Finish with flavor:
Add lemon juice and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve:
Return the crispy halloumi to the pan or place on top of the tomato-bean mixture.
Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm with crusty bread, quinoa, or over greens.

Notes

Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the beans.

Make it a bowl: Serve with cooked couscous, farro, or rice for a fuller meal.

Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Swap beans: Chickpeas or butter beans work beautifully too.

Meal prep tip: Prepare the tomato-bean mixture in advance and reheat before adding the halloumi fresh.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 167Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 440mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 7gSugar: 7gProtein: 8g

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FAQ about Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes and White Beans

Can I make this crispy halloumi recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this Mediterranean-inspired dish vegan by substituting traditional halloumi with a plant-based vegan halloumi or firm tofu. Be sure to choose a tofu that crisps well when pan-fried, and season it with smoked paprika or nutritional yeast to enhance flavor.

Is halloumi a healthy cheese?

Halloumi is a high-protein cheese that’s rich in calcium and makes a great meatless protein option. While it is higher in sodium and saturated fats, it’s perfectly healthy when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It’s an excellent ingredient for a vegetarian high-protein meal.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Canned diced tomatoes are a great substitute and still bring bold flavor to this dish. Just be sure to drain slightly to avoid a watery sauce. For best results, use fire-roasted or Italian-style canned tomatoes to maintain the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

What kind of beans work best in this halloumi recipe?

White beans such as cannellini or Great Northern beans are ideal for this one-pan recipe. They are creamy, mild, and absorb the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Chickpeas or butter beans also work well for variety and texture.

Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the crispy halloumi separately and reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain texture. The tomato and white bean base reheats beautifully and is great for a quick, healthy vegetarian lunch.