Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Salty, squeaky halloumi cheese grilled to golden-brown perfection. Finished with a simple dressing of lemon and herbs, this appetizer is wonderfully simple and ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the halloumi and dressing.
- Cut the block of halloumi cheese into 8 even, thick slices (about 1/2-inch thick).
- Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess brine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice from half the lemon, dried oregano, and black pepper.
TIPDrying the cheese helps it develop a beautiful golden crust when grilled.Brush the halloumi with dressing.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat both sides of each halloumi slice with the olive oil mixture.
Grill the halloumi slices.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Place the halloumi slices directly on the hot grill.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until you see distinct grill marks and the cheese is golden brown and slightly softened.
TIPDon't move the cheese once it's on the grill to ensure you get those perfect grill marks.Garnish and serve immediately.
Transfer the grilled halloumi to a serving platter. Squeeze the remaining lemon half over the top and sprinkle with fresh chopped mint. Serve hot while it's still soft and squeaky.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use a non-stick grill pan to prevent the cheese from sticking.
- 2Halloumi is best served immediately after grilling as it can become firm and rubbery once it cools down.
- 3Don't slice the halloumi too thinly, or it might fall apart on the grill.
- 4Patting the cheese dry is a crucial step for achieving a crispy exterior.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture for a bit of heat.
healthyHealthy
Serve the grilled halloumi over a bed of mixed greens with cucumber and tomatoes for a light and refreshing salad.
sweet savorySweet savory
Drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the grilled halloumi just before serving for a sweet and salty contrast.
high proteinHigh protein
Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers or chickpeas to boost the protein content of the meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Halloumi cheese is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Good Source of Calcium
As a dairy product, halloumi provides a significant amount of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Grilled Halloumi can be part of a healthy diet in moderation. It's a good source of protein and calcium. However, it is high in sodium and saturated fat, so portion control is key. Grilling is a healthier preparation method than frying.