If you’re craving a vibrant, wholesome meal that’s as satisfying as it is indeed simple, look no further than this flavor-packed Halloumi tray bake with pesto rice and veggies. Combining the irresistible saltiness of grilled halloumi with the fresh, herbaceous punch of pesto-infused rice and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, it’s a one-pan wonder that delivers bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a kitchen novice, this tray bake promises a deliciously balanced meal that’s effortlessly impressive.

Flavor-Packed Halloumi Tray Bake with Pesto Rice & veggies

Flavor-Packed Halloumi Tray Bake with Pesto Rice & Veggies offers an irresistible blend of savory cheese, herby rice, and vibrant vegetables-a dish that effortlessly combines nutrition and indulgence. Inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, this tray bake elevates humble ingredients into a colorful, aromatic meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a wholesome family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe showcases how layering flavors and textures can create an unforgettable experience in a single pan.

Prep and Cook Time

• Readiness: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 generous portions

Difficulty Level

Easy to Medium – perfect for confident beginners and seasoned cooks alike

Ingredients

• For the Halloumi Tray Bake:
• 300g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
• 150g cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
• For the Pesto Rice:
• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven Tray: preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Lightly grease a large baking tray with 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Arrange the Veggies and Halloumi: Spread the sliced red pepper, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes evenly across the tray.Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over them and sprinkle smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently for an even coating. Lay the halloumi slices on top in a single layer to allow them to bake without becoming soggy.
3. Bake the Tray: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and beginning to caramelize, and the halloumi develops a golden crust. Flip the halloumi halfway to ensure both sides are perfectly crisp.
4. Cook the Pesto rice: While the bake cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, releasing it’s fragrance.add rinsed rice and toast briefly,stirring continuously for 2 minutes.
5. Add broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, salt to taste, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Finish the Pesto Rice: Remove from heat, stir in basil pesto gently until the rice is uniformly fragrant and vibrantly green. Keep covered to stay warm.
7. Plate and Garnish: Serve the roasted halloumi and vegetables atop a bed of the creamy pesto rice. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a final aromatic touch.

Tips for success

• Halloumi Prep: For extra crispiness, press halloumi slices between paper towels for 5 minutes before baking to remove excess moisture.
• Veggie Variations: Swap zucchini with eggplant or add sliced mushrooms for added umami depth. Choose the freshest, most colorful vegetables for peak flavor and visual appeal.
• pesto Choices: Homemade pesto brightens the dish with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic, but store-bought pesto works well in a pinch-look for high-quality, preservative-free options.
• Make-Ahead: Cook rice and prep veggies ahead of time. Store separately and assemble just before baking to maintain freshness and texture.
• Serving Warm: Allow the tray bake to cool for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the halloumi firm up again and the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, arrange the halloumi slices and vegetables attractively on a shallow platter over the pesto rice. Garnish with roughly chopped fresh basil or parsley, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, and a lemon wedge on the side to add brightness. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest and olive oil, balancing the richness of the halloumi.

For more Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian dishes, check out our Creamy Roasted Veg Quinoa Bowl. To explore the health benefits and versatility of halloumi cheese, visit British Cheese Board’s Halloumi Guide.

Q&A

Q&A: Flavor-Packed Halloumi Tray Bake with Pesto Rice & Veggies

Q1: What makes halloumi an ideal choice for a tray bake?
A1: halloumi is a wonderfully firm and salty cheese that holds its shape beautifully when cooked.This means it can withstand the heat of a tray bake without melting into a gooey mess. Instead, it crisps up on the edges, delivering a satisfying texture contrast to the tender veggies and fluffy pesto rice.

Q2: How can I infuse maximum flavor into this one-pan dish?
A2: The magic lies in layering flavors thoughtfully. Start by marinating or tossing your halloumi cubes with a splash of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The veggies benefit from a drizzle of olive oil,a sprinkle of smoked paprika or za’atar,and a pinch of sea salt. Toss everything together before roasting to allow the spices to seep in during the baking process.

Q3: What vegetables work best in this tray bake?
A3: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and depth in many vegetables.Try a colorful medley of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, courgettes (zucchini), red onions, and perhaps a handful of green beans or asparagus. These not only contribute vibrant colors but also add complex textures that complement the halloumi.

Q4: How is the pesto rice prepared to keep the dish balanced and vibrant?
A4: Cook your rice until fluffy and tender,then fold in a generous spoonful of fresh pesto-basil,pine nuts,Parmesan,garlic,and olive oil create a fragrant,herbaceous flavor bomb. The pesto rice serves as a rich, creamy base that perfectly offsets the salty bite of the halloumi and the roasted veggies’ caramelized sweetness.

Q5: Can I customize this tray bake to suit dietary preferences?
A5: Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be tailored. For a vegan twist, swap halloumi with firm tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative that roasts well. Use a nut-free pesto if allergies are a concern or replace the pine nuts with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.

Q6: What’s the best way to serve and enjoy this dish?
A6: Serve the halloumi tray bake straight from the oven, spooning the pesto rice alongside or underneath the veggies and cheese. A fresh squeeze of lemon on top adds a lively brightness. Pair with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of flavor.

Q7: How do leftovers hold up?
A7: this dish tastes fantastic the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently. The halloumi retains its texture, and the flavors frequently enough deepen overnight, making it a perfect, hassle-free lunch or dinner option.

In Conclusion

As the last fragrant forkful of this flavor-packed halloumi tray bake with pesto rice and veggies disappears, you’re left with more than just a satisfied palate – you’ve experienced a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that celebrate both simplicity and zest. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant invitation to explore bold, wholesome ingredients coming together effortlessly in one pan.Whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it promises to transform humble halloumi and fresh produce into a memorable feast. So next time you crave a burst of color and flavor with minimal fuss, remember this tray bake – your new go-to for easy, tasty, and truly satisfying nourishment.