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Grilled Halloumi

Grilled Halloumi

Grilled halloumi is a quick, versatile, and flavorful Mediterranean appetizer featuring firm, salty cheese grilled to a golden, crispy exterior. Perfect for snacks, salads, or as a standalone dish, this simple recipe brings smoky, tangy, and aromatic notes to your table in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 200250g Halloumi cheese (firm block for grilling)
  • 12 tablespoons Olive oil
  • Juice of half a fresh lemon
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh or dried herbs (oregano or thyme)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheese: Slice the halloumi into 1/3-inch thick pieces to ensure even grilling and to keep the slices from melting away.
  2. Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Heat your grill or non-stick pan to medium-high heat, aiming for perfect golden brown grill marks.
  3. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly coat both sides of each halloumi slice with olive oil to prevent sticking and add crispiness.
  4. Grill the Halloumi: Place the cheese slices on the grill or pan, cooking them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown crust forms and the inside becomes slightly soft.
  5. Add Final Flavors: Once cooked, immediately drizzle fresh lemon juice over the slices and sprinkle with herbs and black pepper to enhance the flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Use a hot grill to achieve a crispy texture while keeping the cheese firm.
  • Do not overcook to avoid rubbery texture; grill just until golden.
  • Pat the halloumi dry before grilling to remove excess moisture and improve crust formation.
  • If outdoor grilling isn’t possible, an indoor grill pan works well year-round.
  • Try marinating halloumi slices in olive oil, garlic, and herbs beforehand for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled halloumi, Mediterranean appetizer, quick cheese recipe, grilled cheese snack, halloumi grilling