A tasty vegetarian twist on the classic—halloumi fingers wrapped in aubergine and roasted until golden. A simple, low-carb festive starter or side.
These halloumi pigless pigs in blankets are a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic Christmas side. Salty halloumi fingers are wrapped in thin, smoky aubergine strips, then roasted until golden and tender. They’re low-carb, full of flavour, and make a perfect starter, side dish, or party nibble for anyone wanting a lighter, meat-free option on Christmas Day.
Halloumi pigless pigs in blankets
A tasty vegetarian twist on the classic—halloumi fingers wrapped in aubergine and roasted until golden. A simple, low-carb festive starter or side.
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Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 203kcal
Ingredients
- 1 medium aubergine
- 200 grams halloumi cheese (1 pack, full-fat)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ medium lemon zest and juice
- 1 handful fresh basil shredded
- 1 teaspoon agave nectar or sugar-free syrup
- 1 pinch dried chilli flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°c (fan)
- Remove and discard the top of the aubergine, then cut lengthways into 5mm slices. Discard the end pieces with skin all on one side as these are too thick to use for blankets. Note: These could be used for another dish
- Brush the aubergine slices lightly with oil and place on a hot griddle pan for 1-2 mins on each side, until the slices are charred then set aside
- Add the lemon zest, shredded basil leaves and crushed chillies into a bowl
- Slice the halloumi into finger-sized sticks and add to the bowl and toss gently to coat
- Wrap each halloumi stick in a slice of aubergine and place it on a lined tray, seam-side down. Brush with a little extra oil, season and drizzle over the agave nectar. Bake for 10 mins
- To serve, squeeze over the lemon juice and scatter with a little extra basil
Nutrition
Calories: 203kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 14g | of which saturates: 9g | Fibre: 4g | of which sugars: 6g