Gyros with halloumi, a vegetarian version of the greek sandwich!
Love gyros but looking for a vegetarian alternative? Try halloumi gyros! This Cypriot cheese will be absolutely perfect as analternative to meat, as here it's pan-roasted with honey, for a sweet-savory combination that takes us on a journey in one bite :-) Accompanied by crudités and eggplant caviar, all wrapped in soft pita bread, this is THE perfect meal ;-)
Ingredients
Materials
- Absorbent paper
- Frying pan
- Parchment paper
- String
Preparation
Start by cutting slices of halloumi.
Place the halloumi slices on absorbent paper and remove as much moisture as possible.
Pour a drizzle of olive oil into a frying pan and, when it's hot, place the halloumi slices in the pan to cook over medium-high heat.
Flip them when golden brown (2-3 minutes) and brown the other side.
Pour the honey over the top, add salt, pepper and rosemary, then turn the halloumi slices over one last time and leave to cook for a few moments before removing from the heat.
Heat the pita bread in the microwave for about 30 seconds before topping. *You can also put them in the oven for a few minutes.
Spread eggplant caviar in the center.
Place the halloumi slices in the center of the eggplant caviar.
Top with cucumber slices and red onion slices.
*You can replace the red onion slices with pickles.
*You can also add tomatoes and pomegranate arils.
Add crumbled feta cheese on top and chopped mint leaves.
*You can also add lemon juice.
Close the sandwich and there you are, your halloumi gyros is ready!
We wrapped it in greaseproof paper and sealed it with string.
Observations
Can I use a cheese other than halloumi for gyros?
Yes, you can replace the halloumi with goat's cheese or mozzarella!
Can you use other vegetables in these gyros?
Absolutely, you can add tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or zucchini to vary flavors and textures. The important thing is to keep a good balance between ingredients so as not to overload the gyros :-)
How to prepare the eggplant caviar for this recipe?
Here's our eggplant caviar recipe.
Can I replace the feta with another ingredient?
Yes, if you don't like feta or are looking for an alternative, you can use crumbled fresh goat's cheese or creamcheese for a milder option.
Can I make my own pita bread?
Of course, you can find the recipe by clicking here.
How do I store the ingredients in the grilled halloumi gyros?
The components, such as grilled halloumi, eggplant caviar and vegetables, can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
Can these gyros be made without pita bread?
Of course, but you can use other types of flatbread such as naan, wraps, or even tortillas if you prefer!
How do you add a touch of freshness to grilled halloumi gyros?
Here we've added fresh mint leaves, but you can also add a touch of lemon juice to the grilled halloumi before serving to enhance the flavours, or pomegranate arils.
Can these gyros be prepared in advance for a picnic?
Yes, you can prepare the individual components in advance and assemble them just before you head out on your picnic. Pack the ingredients separately to maintain freshness, then assemble the gyros on the spot.
What to serve grilled halloumi gyros with?
These gyros go well with roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or grilled vegetables!
