Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Heart-Healthy Traditional Semolina Halva, a wholesome twist on a classic dessert that perfectly balances indulgence with nutrition. This recipe features nutty semolina toasted to perfection, infused with a fragrant blend of orange blossom honey, pure vanilla, cinnamon, and fresh orange zest for a delightful aroma and taste. Toasted almonds and pistachios add a satisfying crunch, while juicy raisins provide natural sweetness. Made with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of fine sea salt, every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to support a heart-healthy lifestyle. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and easy dessert is ideal for sharing with loved ones and can be enjoyed warm, topped with extra nuts or cinnamon for an elegant presentation. Perfect for a healthy treat or a cozy familial celebration!
Toast the almonds and pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the semolina and stir continuously with a wooden spoon to toast it evenly, about 6-8 minutes, until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the water, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon powder, orange zest, and a pinch of sea salt. Heat the mixture gently over low heat, stirring to dissolve the honey. Do not let it boil.
Once the semolina is toasted, carefully pour the warm syrup mixture into the skillet with the semolina. Be cautious as it will bubble and splatter. Stir constantly to incorporate the liquid into the semolina.
Add the toasted nuts and raisins to the halva mixture. Stir well to distribute them evenly.
Lower the heat to its lowest setting, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the halva cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the semolina to absorb all the liquid.
Turn off the heat and let the halva sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to set and develop its full flavor.
Stir the halva once more, then transfer it to a serving dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it into an even layer if desired.
Serve warm, garnished with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Calories |
1636 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 73.5 g | 94% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.8 g | 49% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 168 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 222.1 g | 81% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.2 g | 47% | |
| Total Sugars | 72.5 g | ||
| Protein | 32.1 g | 64% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 128 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 4.5 mg | 25% | |
| Potassium | 892 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.