Halloumi cheese has taken the culinary world by storm, loved for its salty flavor and firm texture that shines when grilled or fried. Originating from Cyprus, this versatile cheese inspires countless Halloumi Cheese Recipes from quick starters to satisfying mains. In this blog, discover six easy dishes that bring out its best.
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Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Grilling halloumi is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy this unique Mediterranean cheese. Its high melting point means it holds its shape beautifully, developing a crispy, golden crust while remaining warm and slightly creamy inside.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, lemon zest
Instructions:
- Prepare the Halloumi: Slice the halloumi into ½-inch thick pieces for even cooking. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning and reduces sticking.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Brush both the grill and halloumi slices lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Cheese: Place the halloumi slices on the grill and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the cheese turns golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping too early or too often to get perfect char marks.
- Finishing Touches: Remove the grilled halloumi from the grill and drizzle with a bit more olive oil. Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, or lemon zest for enhanced flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Halloumi is best enjoyed warm, when its contrast of crispy edges and tender center is at its peak.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi
Grilled halloumi is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a stand-alone appetizer, paired with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Add it to salads with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a Mediterranean twist. Use grilled halloumi slices in wraps or sandwiches alongside grilled veggies and creamy sauces like tzatziki. For parties, try threading halloumi cubes with cherry tomatoes and bell peppers on skewers for delicious kebabs. It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like watermelon or figs, offering a delightful sweet and savory balance.
Halloumi Burgers
Halloumi cheese makes an excellent centerpiece for vegetarian or meat-alternative burgers, thanks to its firm texture and ability to hold up well when grilled or pan-fried. Its salty, tangy flavor adds a delicious twist that complements fresh and vibrant burger toppings.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- Burger buns
- Sliced tomato
- Lettuce or arugula
- Sliced red onion
- Avocado slices (optional)
- Your choice of condiments (e.g., tzatziki, aioli, mustard)
- Olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi into thick slices (about ½ inch). Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture and brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Halloumi: Grill or pan-fry the slices over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while warm and soft inside.
- Prepare the Buns and Toppings: Lightly toast burger buns for extra texture. Prepare fresh toppings like tomato slices, lettuce, and red onion.
- Assemble the Burger: Place the grilled halloumi slice on the bottom bun. Add desired toppings such as tomato, lettuce, avocado, and onions. Spread condiments like tzatziki or aioli on the top bun and place it on the assembled burger.
- Serve: Enjoy your halloumi burger immediately while the cheese is warm and the bun fresh.
Tips for Flavor Boost
- Add grilled vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil into the toppings or sauces to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
- For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Grilled Halloumi Sandwiches
Grilled halloumi sandwiches are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the cheese’s delightful texture and flavor in a handheld meal. The crispy, salty halloumi pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, spreads, and crusty bread for a satisfying and flavorful sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 2 sandwich rolls or ciabatta bread, sliced
- Olive oil for grilling
- Fresh vegetables (e.g., sliced tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce, roasted red peppers)
- Spread options: hummus, pesto, or tzatziki
- Fresh herbs: basil, mint, or arugula
Instructions:
- Prepare Halloumi: Slice the halloumi into ½-inch thick pieces. Pat dry and lightly brush with olive oil.
- Grill Halloumi: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the halloumi slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Toast Bread: Lightly toast the sandwich rolls or bread for added texture.
- Assemble Sandwich: Spread hummus, pesto, or tzatziki on the bread. Layer grilled halloumi and fresh vegetables. Add herbs like basil or arugula for a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Close the sandwich, press gently, and serve immediately while still warm.
Serving Tips:
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
- For a spicy twist, include sliced jalapeños or a smear of harissa.
- Pair with a crisp salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Grilled halloumi sandwiches combine the best of Mediterranean flavors with satisfying textures, perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
Halloumi Hummus Bowls
Halloumi hummus bowls are a vibrant and nourishing meal option that combines creamy hummus, chewy grilled halloumi, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains for a balanced and flavorful dish. This versatile bowl is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be customized to suit any taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- Cooked grains such as quinoa, couscous, or brown rice
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh vegetables: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, radishes, shredded carrots
- Greens: baby spinach, arugula, or mixed salad greens
- Olive oil for grilling
- Optional toppings: olives, toasted nuts or seeds, fresh herbs (parsley, mint)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Halloumi: Slice the halloumi into ½-inch thick pieces, pat dry, and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Grill the Halloumi: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Bowl: Start with a base of cooked grains, add a generous dollop of hummus, and arrange grilled halloumi slices on top.
- Add Veggies and Greens: Scatter fresh vegetables and greens around the bowl.
- Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle with olives, toasted nuts or seeds, and fresh herbs to elevate flavor and texture.
- Serve: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Ideas:
- Swap in roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or beets for warmth.
- Add a spoonful of spicy harissa or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Perfect as a make-ahead meal assemble all components and heat the halloumi just before serving.
Halloumi hummus bowls offer a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and easy to customize with seasonal ingredients and pantry staples.
Halloumi Salad
Halloumi salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines the savory, crispy texture of grilled or pan-fried halloumi with the crispness of fresh greens and the brightness of colorful vegetables. It’s a perfect light meal or side, packed with protein and rich Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- Mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, or your choice)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives
- Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or basil)
- Olive oil for grilling and dressing
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Halloumi: Slice halloumi into ½-inch thick pieces. Pat dry and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Cook Halloumi: Grill or pan-fry the slices over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and fresh herbs.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Salad: Add the warm halloumi slices on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently before serving.
Serving Tips:
- Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Include slices of avocado or roasted red peppers for added richness.
- Serve with warm pita bread or crusty baguette on the side.
This halloumi salad is a perfect balance of warm, salty cheese with refreshing vegetables and zesty dressing a nutritious and flavorful dish ideal for a light lunch or dinner. For the best presentation whether at home, catering, or takeaway, serve it in an eco-friendly bowl for salad. This not only keeps your dish fresh but also makes it look more appealing, turning a simple salad into a restaurant-quality experience. Contact for sample!
Halloumi Pasta
Halloumi pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the chewy, salty goodness of grilled halloumi with tender pasta and fresh ingredients for a satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for those looking to add a Mediterranean twist to classic pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 block halloumi cheese (about 8 ounces)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your preferred type)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, toasted pine nuts for crunch
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
- Prepare Halloumi: Slice halloumi into ½-inch thick pieces, pat dry, and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Cook Halloumi: Grill or pan-fry the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta, fresh spinach or arugula, grilled halloumi cubes, and a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss gently to combine and wilt the greens.
- Finish: Stir in lemon juice and fresh basil. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve: Garnish with toasted pine nuts if desired, and serve warm.
Serving Tips:
- Add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Swap fresh basil for parsley or mint for a different aromatic twist.
- Drizzle with good quality olive oil just before serving for a silky finish.
Halloumi pasta offers a delicious fusion of Mediterranean flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness, making it an easy and elegant dish for any occasion.
Conclusion
Halloumi cheese’s unique texture and bold, salty flavor make it a versatile ingredient that shines across a wide range of delicious dishes. From simple grilled slices to creative burgers, sandwiches, vibrant hummus bowls, fresh salads, and hearty pasta, halloumi adds a satisfying chew and rich taste that elevates everyday meals. Its firm structure holds up well to grilling and frying, making it easy to prepare and perfect for various cuisines and occasions. Whether for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, halloumi offers a flavorful, protein-rich option that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, herbs, and wholesome grains. Incorporating halloumi into recipes can brighten up menus with Mediterranean flair while adding nutritional benefits like protein and calcium.
