Mediterranean Baked Halloumi Orzo with Zesty Lemon and Herbs

Ingredients

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, whole block
• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• to taste salt and pepper

1. 01
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 02
   In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.
3. 03
   Place the block of halloumi cheese in the center of the dish, nestled among the vegetables.
4. 04
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to burst and the halloumi is golden and soft.
5. 05
   While the vegetables and halloumi are baking, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. 06
   Remove the baking dish from the oven. Gently stir the roasted vegetables and halloumi to combine. Add the cooked orzo, parsley, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together until well mixed.
7. 07
   Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and lemon juice if necessary.
8. 08
   Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.