Easy Halloumi Pasta

• 300 g penne pasta ((or any pasta shape you like: rigatoni, fusilli and spaghetti also work well))
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 yellow (bell) pepper (diced)
• 3 clove garlic (grated or crushed)
• 400 g halloumi (drained and diced into 1cm x 1cm pieces)
• 400 ml passata
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp oregano
• 10 g basil leaves (plus extra for garnish (optional))

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to packet instructions / your own preferences. Drain immediately when cooked to your liking.
2. Meanwhile, place 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and the diced onions in a fairly large saucepan and fry over a low heat, with the lid on, for 3 minutes, or until softened but not brown.
3. Add the diced pepper and fry on low for a further 3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and fry on low for a further 1 minute.
5. Add the passata, oregano, salt and pepper to the onions/peppers, turn up the heat and bring to the boil, then turn the heat right down and simmer for 7 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, place the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large frying pan. Heat over a medium heat for 1 minute. Fry half the halloumi, so that it is golden but not too brown on most sides. Remove to a plate and fry the remaining halloumi until golden.
7. When the 7 minutes are up, add the halloumi and the pasta to the sauce together with the basil. Stir to combine, then turn off the heat.
8. Serve garnished with more basil.