This Is Swoon-Worthy
Halloumi cheese is synonymous with Mediterranean cuisine, and for good reason! It’s firm and has a super high melting point, which is cool because you can pop it directly onto a hot grill without worrying about a melty disaster. Now, let’s talk flavor. With a simple dressing of olive oil, Italian seasoning, and fresh lemon juice, halloumi transforms into some serious cheesy magic, friends. It’s unbelievably versatile, too! Pair it with grilled veggies, or use it to make the most epic sandwich ever. So, if you’re ready to impress at your next BBQ, here’s how to make grilled halloumi cheese that will have everyone begging for the recipe. Trust me, you’ll be making it all summer long!
You Only Need 4 Ingredients
This grilled halloumi recipe is essentially divided into two components: cheese and seasoning. How easy is that?!
Halloumi: Halloumi cheese is the star of the show! It can be found in many grocery stores and natural food markets (near the feta and buffalo mozzarella). Olive Oil: I love olive oil’s health benefits, so I use it whenever possible! You could also use avocado or plain vegetable oil if that’s all you have. Lemon Juice: This is a great flavor to add to the cheese, as the acidity balances the creaminess of the halloumi. Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning complements lemon juice perfectly. I mean, have you ever used Italian seasoning without lemon juice?
Grilling Halloumi Cheese Is Easy Peasy
Making this grilled halloumi is so simple! It involves just 4 steps (1 of which is serving it). Step 1: Slice The CheeseCut the halloumi into thick (½ inch-ish) slabs. Keep the slices a similar thickness to promote even cooking without burning. Step 2: Brush The SeasoningsStir together olive oil and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Brush the oil onto all sides of the halloumi. Step 3: Grill The CheeseTransfer the halloumi onto a hot grill or grill pan. Cook over high heat until both sides have golden-brown grill marks. Step 4: Serve The SlicesDrizzle the grilled halloumi slices with lemon juice and serve!
Recipe tips
Variations: Because halloumi is somewhere between feta and mozzarella, you can pair it with many of the same dishes you would serve those cheeses with. Try adding a balsamic drizzle to finish it off, serving it with fresh berries, or brushing it with homemade pesto and olive oil before grilling. Different Cooking Methods: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also air-fry, bake, or pan-fry the halloumi (pan-fried is my go-to backup method). Serve It With Dips: Pair your grilled halloumi with classic Mediterranean dips like tzatziki sauce, hummus, or spicy harissa for a burst of flavor!
Use It Like This
Grilled halloumi can seriously be enjoyed in so many ways! Here are just a few of the dishes I love serving it with.
Halloumi Burgers: Just season, pan-fry, and slap it on a bun! Caprese Panini: The Mediterranean flavors taste fantastic with halloumi. Plus, the firmer cheese texture gives this sandwich a more meaty vibe. Portobello Mushroom Gyros: If you didn’t have portobello mushrooms or wanted more creaminess, grilled halloumi cheese would make a great substitute or addition.
