Grilled Halloumi Skewers
Salty, squeaky halloumi cheese and crisp vegetables marinated in a smoky, spiced yogurt mixture and grilled to perfection. A fantastic vegetarian appetizer or side inspired by classic Indian tikka flavors.
For 4 servings
Prepare the marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together the thick yogurt, grated ginger, minced garlic, chickpea flour, lemon juice, and vegetable oil.
- Add all the spice powders: red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala.
- Add the crushed dried fenugreek leaves and mix well until you have a smooth, thick paste.
Marinate the halloumi and vegetables
- Pat the halloumi cubes dry with a paper towel to help the marinade adhere better.
- Gently add the halloumi cubes, bell pepper pieces, and onion chunks to the marinade.
- Use your hands or a spatula to coat everything evenly.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
Assemble the skewers
- Thread the marinated halloumi and vegetables onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between them.
- A good pattern is onion, bell pepper, halloumi, and repeat.
- Leave a little space at both ends of the skewer for easy handling.
Grill the skewers
- Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with oil.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill, ensuring they don't touch.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until the halloumi is golden brown with char marks and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Be careful not to overcook, as halloumi can become tough.
Garnish and serve
- Transfer the grilled skewers to a serving platter.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve immediately with a side of lemon wedges for squeezing.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use prevents them from burning on the grill.
- 2Patting the halloumi cubes dry is a crucial step; it helps the marinade stick and ensures a better sear.
- 3Don't marinate the halloumi for more than a few hours, as its saltiness can draw out too much moisture, changing its texture.
- 4For best results, ensure your grill pan is properly preheated. This gives you beautiful char marks without overcooking the cheese.
- 5Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skewers.
- 6If you don't have a grill, you can bake these skewers in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the halloumi with firm, pressed tofu and use a plant-based yogurt for the marinade.
high proteinHigh protein
Add cubes of paneer or tofu alongside the halloumi to increase the protein content.
quickQuick
Skip the marination time if you're in a hurry. The skewers will still be flavorful, just less intense.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as chickpea flour is used. Ensure your spices are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
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, vital for strong bones and teeth.
Packed with Vitamins
The bell peppers and onions are rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it can be a healthy choice. Halloumi is a good source of protein and calcium. The dish is packed with vegetables, providing vitamins and fiber. Grilling is also a healthier cooking method than frying.
