Are you a cheese lover looking for new ways to enjoy halloumi? Look no further! This popular Cypriot cheese is known for its crispy exterior and creamy interior, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes. From classic grilled halloumi with honey and thyme to more adventurous recipes like halloumi tacos with mango salsa, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and easy-to-make halloumi recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, these recipes have something for everyone. So grab your cheese and let’s get started!
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Thyme
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the warmth of honey and the earthiness of thyme, perfect for a simple yet impressive appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into thick slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and melted.
5. Meanwhile, mix together the honey and thyme leaves in a small bowl.
6. Once the cheese is cooked, brush it with the honey-thyme mixture.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors with this refreshing summer salad. Crispy halloumi cheese, juicy watermelon, and a drizzle of zesty dressing come together in a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi cheese into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, chopped mint leaves, and cubed halloumi.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in no time!)
Pan-Fried Halloumi with Lemon Zest
A classic Cypriot cheese gets a bright and citrusy twist in this simple recipe. Pan-frying halloumi to a golden crisp exterior, while maintaining its creamy interior, is the perfect way to enjoy this versatile cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 200g)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi into slices about 1-2 cm thick.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the halloumi slices and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the cheese during the last minute of cooking.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the freshness of avocado on toasted bread, creating a deliciously balanced snack or light meal. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as an accompaniment to your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1/4 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Arrange the sliced halloumi on top of the toast.
3. Spread the mashed avocado over the cheese.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Halloumi Tacos with Mango Salsa
Transform traditional tacos into a Mediterranean masterpiece by combining crispy halloumi cheese, tangy mango salsa, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz halloumi cheese
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
2. Cook the halloumi for 30-45 seconds on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together mango puree, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing crispy halloumi on a warmed tortilla, topping with mango salsa, and garnishing with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Baked Halloumi Fries with Garlic Dip
Elevate your snack game with these crispy baked halloumi fries served with a creamy garlic dip. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into fry shapes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic Dip:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tsp lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each halloumi slice into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated halloumi slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix together garlic dip ingredients in a bowl.
8. Serve baked halloumi fries warm with the garlic dip.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and colorful skewer recipe, featuring halloumi cheese and a medley of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 1 red bell pepper
– 1 yellow bell pepper
– 1 onion
– 2 cloves of garlic
– 1 zucchini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the halloumi cheese, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or roast in the oven at 220°C (425°F) for 12-15 minutes.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of bell peppers. A perfect vegetarian main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 200g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, mix together halloumi cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish, brush with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Halloumi and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms. Creamy Halloumi cheese, earthy spinach, and tender mushroom caps come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine Halloumi cheese, spinach, and garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the cheese mixture among the mushroom caps, spooning it onto each cap.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Curry
A creamy and flavorful curry that combines the salty sweetness of halloumi cheese with the nutty taste of chickpeas, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 250ml coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add sliced halloumi and stir gently to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the curry is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi Burger with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this creamy and crispy combination featuring halloumi cheese, juicy patty, and a kick of spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 4 beef patties (or your preferred burger patty)
– Spicy Mayo ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the beef patties according to your preference (medium-rare recommended).
3. Meanwhile, toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, topping with sliced halloumi cheese, and adding lettuce and tomato as desired.
5. To make Spicy Mayo: Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Spread a dollop of Spicy Mayo on top of the halloumi cheese before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on patty thickness and grill temperature.
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This easy-to-make hash is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the halloumi slices to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. To assemble the hash, place the roasted sweet potatoes on a serving plate or platter, then top with the crispy halloumi slices.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are a perfect summer snack or appetizer, featuring the salty sweetness of halloumi cheese paired with the freshness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine halloumi, zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Halloumi and Pomegranate Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy texture of grilled halloumi cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate seeds. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 large pomegranate, arils removed (about 1 cup)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill halloumi cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and grilled halloumi cheese.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Halloumi and Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a tender eggplant package.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup crumbled halloumi cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, crumbled halloumi cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the lentil-halloumi mixture, dividing it evenly among the two.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Halloumi and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your bruschetta game with this Mediterranean-inspired twist featuring crispy halloumi cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the baguette slices.
4. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
5. Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the halloumi cheese pieces until golden brown.
6. Top each toasted baguette slice with a piece of grilled halloumi, a few tomato halves, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi and Black Bean Quesadillas
Halloumi and Black Bean Quesadillas: A Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the creamy, salty flavor of Halloumi cheese with the richness of black beans and the crunch of tortilla chips. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the crumbled Halloumi cheese and black beans.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese-bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Herb Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful twist! This recipe combines the creamy tang of halloumi cheese with fresh herbs, stuffed inside tender chicken breasts for a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together halloumi cheese, garlic, oregano, and parsley.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the halloumi mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of crispy, cheesy goodness with these 18 mouth-watering Halloumi recipes! From classic grilled and pan-fried dishes to innovative tacos, salads, and more, this collection has something for every cheese lover. Discover how to elevate this Cypriot favorite with flavors like honey and thyme, lemon zest, mango salsa, and many others. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, these crispy Halloumi recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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