Cypriot Grilled Halloumi & Shrimp Saganaki with Charred Tomato Orzo
Prep 20 min · Cook 25 min · Serves 4 · medium

A stunning Eastern Mediterranean fusion dinner featuring pan-seared halloumi cheese and succulent shrimp glazed with oregano and lemon, served over creamy tomato orzo with crispy breadcrumb topping and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz halloumi cheese, cut into 8 thick slices
- 1.5 cups pearl orzo, uncooked
- 1 can (28 oz) canned whole tomatoes, no sugar added
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh oregano, or 1 tbsp dried
- 2 whole lemon, zest and juice
- 3 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium
- 0.5 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- 0.25 cup whole grain breadcrumbs, panko
Instructions
- 1
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat halloumi dry, pan-sear 2-3 minutes per side until golden with char marks. Transfer to a plate.
- 2
In the same skillet, add shrimp with 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Sauté 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove to plate with halloumi.


