Halloumi Burger on Portobello Mushroom "Bun" Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided use
• 3 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced
• 2 teaspoons za'atar seasoning
• 1 Roma tomato, cut in half lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons pesto
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Arugula or microgreens

Directions:

1. Preheat grill or heat a heavy skillet on stove over medium-high heat. Brush mushrooms with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Place mushrooms, gills-side down, on hot grill or pan. Cook 5 minutes. Flip and drizzle with additional olive oil. Cook until soft, but still sturdy enough to serve as a bun, 5 to 7 minutes more.
3. Brush halloumi and tomato with oil and sprinkle with za'atar. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side or until slightly softened and marked by grill.
4. Mix pesto and mayo together. Slather gills-side of mushrooms with pesto mayo. Top one mushroom with haloumi, roasted tomatoes, and greens. Cover with other mushroom. Enjoy immediately.
5. Cook's Tip:
6. For a vegan option, substitute firm tofu for halloumi.