Inspired by: @veganonthesavannah
Craving a meal that's both hearty and fresh, offering the satisfying crunch of fried "chicken" and the delightful chewiness of baked "halloumi"? Look no further! This Crispy Vegan Southern Fried Chicken and Baked Halloumi Salad is a true showstopper, delivering incredible flavor and texture in every bite. It’s the perfect solution for anyone seeking a flavorful, plant-based, and dairy-free comfort food experience, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a vibrant lunch. Get ready for a dish that truly hits the spot!
What You'll Need: Ingredients
- Vegan Southern Fried Chicken (such as The Vegan Chef's Southern Fried Chicken)
- Violife Halloumi style cheese block (or similar vegan halloumi alternative)
- Fresh salad greens
- 1-2 ripe tomato, chopped
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1000 Island dressing (The Vegan Chef's 1000 Island Sauce recommended)
- Dukkah spice blend
- Vegan croutons (homemade or store-bought)
- Olive oil for baking halloumi
How to Prepare: Instructions
- Prepare the Halloumi: Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature (around 180°C / 350°F). Cube the vegan halloumi block into bite-sized pieces. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cook the Vegan Fried Chicken: Prepare the vegan Southern fried chicken according to package instructions. This typically involves baking or pan-frying until golden and crispy. Once cooked, let it rest briefly before slicing or dicing.
- Assemble the Salad Base: On a large platter or in individual bowls, lay down a generous bed of fresh salad greens.
- Add Veggies: Evenly scatter the chopped tomato and cucumber over the greens.
- Combine & Dress: Add the cooked vegan Southern fried chicken and the baked halloumi cubes to the salad. Drizzle generously with 1000 Island dressing.
- Finishing Touch: Top with dukkah spiced croutons for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this droolworthy creation!
Variations and Adaptations
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:
- Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your chosen vegan fried chicken and croutons are certified gluten-free. Most plant-based halloumi alternatives are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label.
- Different Dressings: Swap the 1000 Island dressing for a creamy vegan ranch, a zesty lemon-tahini dressing, or a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrient content by adding shredded carrots, sliced red onion, bell peppers, or corn kernels.
- Protein Boost: Incorporate chickpeas or a sprinkle of toasted nuts like almonds for extra protein and crunch.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to your halloumi before baking for a spicy kick.
Tips & Hacks for Success
- Crispy Halloumi Every Time: For extra crispy halloumi, ensure your oven is fully preheated and don't overcrowd the baking sheet. This allows for even air circulation and browning.
- Homemade Dukkah Croutons: To make your own dukkah spiced croutons, cube stale bread and toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous amount of dukkah spice. Bake at 180°C / 350°F until golden and crunchy.
- Prep Ahead: You can bake the halloumi and cook the vegan chicken ahead of time, then store them separately. Assemble the salad right before serving to keep greens fresh and crispy.
- Chill the Dressing: For the best flavor, make sure your 1000 Island dressing is well chilled before serving.
Related Articles
- Explore another cheesy and crispy salad: Crispy Fried Vegan Goat Cheese Salad
- Learn how to make your own vegan "chicken": Vegan Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
- Discover more easy and satisfying plant-based bowls: Easy Homemade Vegan Falafel Bowl with Charred Eggplant & Tahini
Ready to try this amazing salad? Whip it up tonight and share your experience with the abillion community! We love seeing your delicious creations.
