Cyprus Delight Sandwich with Grilled Halloumi, Caramelized Onions, and Fresh Tomatoes
Discover the authentic taste of Cyprus with this delectable sandwich, combining the unique flavors of grilled Halloumi cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and juicy fresh tomatoes. Enjoy the crunch of toasted pita bread or a hoagie roll, complemented by a hint of fresh oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice. This beloved Cypriot sandwich evokes memories of sunlit Mediterranean beaches and local tavernas, offering a savory and wholesome lunch or snack option perfect for any occasion. Halloumi, revered for its firm texture and tangy taste, is an ideal cheese for grilling, adding a delightful richness and warm flavor to this traditional dish. Whether paired with a crisp salad or enjoyed on its own, this sandwich is a delicious tribute to the essence of Cypriot cuisine.
1
Servings
450
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pita bread or hoagie roll
1 (sliced in half)
Halloumi cheese
4 slices (none)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (divided use)
Onion
1/4 (peeled and sliced)
Fresh tomato
1/2 large (sliced)
Fresh lemon
1/4 (juiced over cheese)
Fresh oregano leaves
a few (sprinkled)
Lettuce leaf
to serve (as desired)
Black olives
to serve (as desired)
Instructions
1
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2
In the same pan, heat the remaining teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Halloumi slices and fry on both sides until they are golden brown and have crispy edges, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3
Slice the pita bread or hoagie roll in half. Layer the grilled Halloumi on one half and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cheese to enhance its flavor.
4
Sprinkle fresh oregano leaves over the cheese, then layer the sliced tomatoes and caramelized onions on top.
5
Place the other half of the bread on top of the fillings. Press the sandwich gently to hold the ingredients together.
6
Transfer the assembled sandwich to a pre-heated griddle, Panini press, or any sandwich grill and toast for about 2 minutes, or until the bread is crisp and golden brown.
7
Serve immediately with fresh lettuce leaves and a handful of black olives. Don’t forget to pair it with an ice-cold Keo or Efes beer for an authentic Cypriot experience!
Nutrition Information
30g
Fat
35g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cyprus Delight Sandwich?
A Cyprus Delight Sandwich is a traditional Mediterranean-style sandwich featuring grilled Halloumi cheese, caramelized onions, and fresh tomatoes, typically served on pita or a hoagie roll.
How do you grill Halloumi for this recipe?
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the Halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown with crispy edges.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
It takes approximately 5-7 minutes over medium heat for the sliced onions to become soft and caramelized.
What type of bread is best for a Cyprus Delight Sandwich?
The recipe recommends using either toasted pita bread or a hoagie roll for the best texture.
Is Halloumi cheese suitable for grilling?
Yes, Halloumi is ideal for grilling because of its firm texture and high melting point, which allows it to get crispy without losing its shape.
How many calories are in this sandwich?
One serving of the Cyprus Delight Sandwich contains approximately 450 calories.
What seasoning is used in the sandwich?
The sandwich is seasoned with fresh oregano leaves and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor of the cheese.
Do I need a Panini press to make this recipe?
While a Panini press works well, you can also use a pre-heated griddle or any sandwich grill to toast the assembled sandwich.
Is this sandwich recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it consists of cheese, bread, and various vegetables.
What side dishes go well with a Halloumi sandwich?
It is traditionally served with fresh lettuce leaves, a handful of black olives, or a crisp Mediterranean salad.
How much protein does this sandwich provide?
The sandwich provides 20g of protein per serving.
What is the fat content of the Cyprus Delight Sandwich?
The sandwich contains 30g of fat per serving.
Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried oregano if fresh is not available, though fresh oregano provides a more authentic Mediterranean aroma.
What should I drink with this sandwich for an authentic experience?
For an authentic Cypriot experience, pair the sandwich with an ice-cold Keo or Efes beer.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed for a single serving.
How do I assemble the sandwich?
Layer grilled Halloumi on the bread, squeeze lemon juice, sprinkle oregano, and top with sliced tomatoes and caramelized onions before toasting.
Can I make this sandwich in advance?
It is best served immediately while the bread is crisp and the cheese is warm, though you can prepare the onions ahead of time.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
The sandwich contains approximately 35g of carbohydrates.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil in total, divided between cooking the onions and the cheese.
Can I use a different type of onion?
While standard onions are great for caramelizing, red onions can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
Should the tomatoes be cooked?
No, the recipe calls for fresh sliced tomatoes to provide a juicy contrast to the grilled cheese and warm onions.
What gives Halloumi its unique flavor?
Halloumi is known for its tangy taste and firm texture, which becomes rich and savory when grilled.
Is the pita bread toasted separately?
The bread is toasted as part of the assembled sandwich for about 2 minutes until it is crisp and golden brown.
Can I add lettuce inside the sandwich?
While the recipe suggests serving lettuce on the side, you can add it inside after toasting if you prefer extra crunch.
How much Halloumi is needed per sandwich?
The recipe calls for 4 slices of Halloumi cheese.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be peeled and sliced before being caramelized in the frying pan.
Is this a healthy lunch option?
It is a wholesome and savory lunch option that provides a good balance of protein and fresh vegetables.
Can I use lemon zest instead of juice?
Lemon juice is preferred to help cut through the richness of the grilled cheese, but a little zest can add extra fragrance.
How long should I toast the final sandwich?
Toast the assembled sandwich for about 2 minutes until the bread is crisp.
Are there any specific olives recommended?
The recipe specifically mentions serving the sandwich with black olives for an authentic taste.