Heart-Healthy Traditional Semolina Halva

Experience a wholesome twist on a beloved dessert with our *Heart-Healthy Traditional Semolina Halva*, a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe swaps traditional butter with nutrient-rich extra virgin olive oil, creating a lighter yet equally luxurious texture. Toasted almonds and pistachios add a satisfying crunch, while raisins lend natural sweetness. The aromatic blend of orange blossom honey, pure vanilla, cinnamon, and fresh orange zest infuses every bite with a warm, citrusy fragrance. Perfectly golden semolina is gently simmered with a naturally sweetened syrup, making it a heart-healthy treat that's quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Serve this comforting dessert warm, garnished with extra nuts for an irresistible finish.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup Semolina
• 0.25 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted raw almonds
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted raw pistachios
• 2 tablespoons Raisins
• 1.5 cups Filtered water
• 3 tablespoons Orange blossom honey
• 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon Fresh orange zest
• 1 pinch Pinch of fine sea salt

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Add the toasted nuts and raisins to the halva mixture. Stir well to distribute them evenly.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and let the halva sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to set and develop its full flavor.

Step 8

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.

Step 9

Serve warm, garnished with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(740.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1636.2

Total Fat 73.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 9.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 168.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 222.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.2g	0%
Total Sugars 72.5g
Protein 32.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 127.8mg	0%
Iron 4.5mg	0%
Potassium 891.9mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.4%

Protein: 7.7%

Carbs: 52.9%