Aubergine, Halloumi, and Harissa Skillet Bake: A Flavorful and Easy Mediterranean Delight

This flavorful and easy aubergine, halloumi, and harissa skillet bake is the perfect weeknight meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish combines the bold flavors of harissa, the savory richness of halloumi cheese, and the tender softness of aubergine (eggplant).

Ingredients:

* 1 large aubergine, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 red onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons harissa paste
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 1 (12-ounce) block halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the aubergine and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the harissa paste and chickpeas. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the harissa is fragrant.
5. Add the halloumi cubes to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 2 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the aubergine is tender and the halloumi is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions:

This versatile dish can be served as a main course, appetizer, or side dish. Pair it with a green salad, pita bread, or rice for a complete meal.

Tips:

* For a spicier bake, use more harissa paste to taste.
* If you don't have harissa paste, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* Feel free to add other vegetables to this bake, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Conclusion:

This aubergine, halloumi, and harissa skillet bake is a flavorful and easy dish that combines the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.