🧀 Hasselback Halloumi Traybake – Easy Mediterranean Delight in Under 1 Hour!

Looking for a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal? This Hasselback Halloumi Traybake is a show-stopping dish that combines the salty richness of halloumi with a vibrant tomato, olive, and caper sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner — simple to prepare, full of bold flavors, and ready in under an hour!

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1. Introduction
2. Ingredients for Hasselback Halloumi Traybake
3. Prep & Cook Time – Hasselback Halloumi Traybake
4. How to Make Hasselback Halloumi Traybake
5. Why You’ll Love This Hasselback Halloumi Traybake
6. Frequently Asked Questions
7. Related Recipes You’ll Love
8. External Inspiration – Learn More About Halloumi and Mediterranean Cuisine
9. Final Thoughts

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For the traybake:

400g chopped tomatoes

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp chili flakes

1 red pepper, diced

2 tbsp olive oil

4 blocks halloumi cheese

24 green olives

1 tbsp capers

Zest of 1 lemon

Chopped flat-leaf parsley (for garnish)

To serve:

Warm flatbreads

Fresh salad (optional)

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Step Time

Preparation Time 10 minutes
Cooking Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

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1. Preheat oven to 200°C (fan 180°C / gas 6).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the chopped tomatoes, garlic, oregano, chili flakes, red pepper, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the tomato mixture for 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, slice each halloumi block hasselback-style: make parallel cuts across the top, ½ cm apart, without slicing all the way through (use wooden spoon handles to guide you).
5. Stir the olives and capers into the sauce, then nestle the halloumi blocks into the dish. Season the tops lightly.
6. Return to the oven and bake for 30 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle lemon zest and chopped parsley over the top.
8. Serve hot with warm flatbreads and a fresh green salad.

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✅ Big Flavor, Little Effort: One tray, minimal prep, and loads of Mediterranean goodness.
✅ Impressive Presentation: The hasselback slices create a stunning visual effect.
✅ Perfect for Sharing: Great for family meals or casual dinner parties.
✅ Customizable: Swap red pepper for zucchini or add chickpeas for extra protein.
✅ Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty meatless meal that’s satisfying and rich.

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Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish (except for lemon zest and parsley), then refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake when ready.

What’s the best way to slice halloumi for hasselback style?
Place the cheese between two wooden spoon handles and cut thin vertical slices — the handles stop your knife from cutting all the way through.

Can I use black olives instead of green?
Absolutely! Use your favorite kind of olives or a mix for extra flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the traybake itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free flatbreads if needed.

Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Eggplant, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully.

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Try pairing this with our refreshing side:
👉 Colorful Grape Salad with Yogurt and Nuts — a creamy, crunchy, and vibrant salad that complements the warm halloumi traybake.

Or explore another easy Mediterranean dish:
👉 Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Chicken — a protein-packed main with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a rich garlic butter sauce.

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Curious to explore more about the origins and versatility of halloumi cheese? Check out this helpful guide from BBC Good Food:
👉 What is halloumi? – BBC Good Food

For deeper insight into Mediterranean cooking techniques and ingredients, visit:
👉 Mediterranean Diet 101 – Healthline

These resources offer great background info to deepen your appreciation of this dish and help you get creative with future variations!

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This Hasselback Halloumi Traybake is a no-fuss meal that brings bold Mediterranean flavor to your table. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, it’s a delicious and eye-catching vegetarian main that won’t disappoint.

If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments or tag us on social media — your feedback means the world! 💬💛
Happy cooking! 🍽️🧀