Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of warm, golden-brown grilled halloumi cheese, releasing a burst of savory, tangy flavors with every bite. This mouthwatering Mediterranean treat is a must-try for cheese lovers and those seeking a delectable vegetarian option. With its firm texture and unique ability to hold its shape under high heat, halloumi cheese is the star ingredient in this recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this delicious grilled halloumi cheese recipe.
Ingredients
Halloumi cheese
Halloumi cheese is a traditional Mediterranean cheese with a unique taste and texture. It is made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, giving it a rich and creamy flavor. Halloumi is known for its high melting point, which makes it perfect for grilling or frying.
Olive oil
Olive oil is an essential ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, and it adds a rich, fruity flavor to the halloumi cheese. It also helps to prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill and adds moisture to the final dish.
Lemon juice
Lemon juice adds a refreshing and tangy taste to the grilled halloumi cheese. It balances the richness of the cheese and enhances its natural flavors. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best results.
Fresh herbs
Fresh herbs, such as thyme or oregano, add a burst of flavor to the grilled halloumi cheese. They provide a fragrant aroma and a hint of earthiness that complements the creamy and savory cheese.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds a little bit of heat and depth to the grilled halloumi cheese. It enhances the overall flavor profile, making the dish more complex and satisfying. Freshly ground black pepper will deliver the best results.
Preparation
Step 1: Slice the halloumi cheese
Start by slicing the halloumi cheese into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. This thickness allows the cheese to hold its shape while still achieving a perfect crispy exterior and a soft, gooey center when grilled.
Step 2: Marinate the cheese
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. Place the halloumi cheese slices into the marinade and gently toss them to coat each slice evenly. Allow the cheese to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The ideal temperature for grilling halloumi cheese is around 400°F (200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the cheese from sticking.
Step 4: Grill the halloumi cheese
Carefully place the marinated halloumi cheese slices onto the preheated grill. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese develops a golden brown color and grill marks. Avoid moving the cheese too much during grilling to prevent it from breaking apart. Once grilled, remove the cheese from the grill and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Grilled halloumi skewers
To make grilled halloumi skewers, simply cut the halloumi cheese into bite-sized cubes instead of slices. Thread the cheese cubes onto skewers, alternating with your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Grill the skewers until the cheese is golden and the vegetables are charred to perfection.
Grilled halloumi salad
Grilled halloumi salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Start by grilling the halloumi cheese according to the basic grilling instructions. Once grilled, slice the cheese into smaller pieces and toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. The warm, smoky cheese pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables, creating a refreshing and filling salad.
Grilled halloumi burger
For a hearty and satisfying meal, make a grilled halloumi burger. Grill the halloumi cheese slices as usual and assemble them onto a burger bun along with your favorite toppings. Add fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion, and a dollop of your favorite condiments. The charred and flavorful halloumi cheese creates a delicious and vegetarian-friendly alternative to a traditional meat burger.
Tips
Use a grilling basket or foil
If you’re concerned about the halloumi cheese sticking to the grill grates, consider using a grilling basket or wrapping the cheese in aluminum foil. This will prevent the cheese from falling through the grates and make it easier to handle while grilling.
Do not overcook the cheese
Halloumi cheese has a great texture when grilled correctly. To achieve the perfect balance between crispiness and melted creaminess, make sure you do not overcook the cheese. Overcooking can result in a tough and rubbery texture, so keep an eye on the cheese and flip it at the right moment to avoid any overcooking.
Serve immediately
Grilled halloumi cheese is best enjoyed immediately after grilling. The cheese is at its peak flavor and texture when it is still warm and slightly gooey. Serve it alongside your favorite accompaniments and savor the deliciousness.
Serving Suggestions
Greek salad
Serve grilled halloumi cheese with a refreshing Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal. The combination of crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and smoky halloumi is a match made in culinary heaven. Toss together fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Top it off with the grilled halloumi cheese slices and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
Pita bread
Grilled halloumi cheese pairs perfectly with soft and warm pita bread. Use the pita bread to create a delicious sandwich by adding the grilled halloumi cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. The combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Watermelon slices
Watermelon slices provide a refreshing and juicy contrast to the savory grilled halloumi cheese. The sweetness of the watermelon complements the saltiness of the cheese, creating a delightful flavor combination. Serve the grilled halloumi cheese alongside a platter of chilled watermelon slices for a refreshing and tasty summertime treat.
Health Benefits
High in protein
Halloumi cheese is a great source of protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious addition to your diet. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting overall health and wellbeing. By incorporating grilled halloumi cheese into your meals, you’ll be able to easily meet your protein needs.
Good source of calcium
Calcium is an important mineral that plays a key role in maintaining strong and healthy bones. Halloumi cheese is a good source of calcium, making it a great choice for those who may have dietary restrictions or preferences that limit their intake of traditional dairy products.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Halloumi cheese is not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, B, and D, as well as minerals like phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions, including immune support, energy production, and maintaining healthy skin.
FAQs
Can I grill halloumi without marinating?
While marinating the halloumi cheese adds an extra layer of flavor, you can still grill halloumi without marinating it. The cheese has a rich and unique taste on its own, and grilling it will enhance its natural flavors. However, marinating the cheese can add an additional dimension to the dish and infuse it with the flavors of the marinade.
How long should I marinate the cheese?
The ideal marinating time for halloumi cheese is at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate the cheese and adds depth to the final dish. However, if you’re short on time, a shorter marinating period will still result in a delicious grilled halloumi cheese.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitute if you don’t have fresh ones on hand. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so you’ll need to use less of them compared to fresh herbs. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Grilled halloumi cheese is a mouthwatering Mediterranean treat that combines savory flavors with a delightful texture. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a salad, or as part of a sandwich, grilled halloumi cheese is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. So fire up the grill, slice up that halloumi cheese, and get ready to indulge in a taste of the Mediterranean.
