Halloumi cheese is one of those foods that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Its unique texture, which is both firm and slightly gooey when cooked, makes it perfect for grilling, frying, or even baking. Known as a traditional Cypriot cheese, Halloumi is made from a combination of goat’s and sheep’s milk, with a high melting point, making it ideal for grilling. Whether you’re looking to add a tasty touch to your seafood board, whip up a quick vegetarian appetizer, or create a healthy salad, crispy gooey grilled Halloumi cheese is an easy and delicious option to try.
In this recipe, we will explore how to create the perfect crispy grilled Halloumi cheese, accompanied by tips for variations, the best pairings, and why it’s an excellent option for anyone looking for healthy, budget-friendly meals.
Ingredients for Grilled Halloumi Cheese:
To make this crispy and gooey Halloumi cheese, you don’t need too many ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- 1 block of Halloumi cheese (about 250g)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano (optional, for a Greek touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional for added flavor)
- Pimienta negra recién molida to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley or mint (for garnish, optional)
Halloumi cheese is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences, but these basic ingredients will allow you to create a crispy outer layer with a gooey, savory inside. The olive oil helps in creating the perfect crisp while adding flavor, and the oregano gives the dish a slightly Mediterranean flair.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Grilled Halloumi Cheese:
- Prep the Halloumi Cheese:
Begin by slicing the Halloumi cheese into thick slices. About 1/2 inch slices work best for grilling, as they are thick enough to hold together but thin enough to allow the cheese to cook evenly. The key to grilling Halloumi successfully is to ensure that your slices are uniform in size to avoid uneven cooking. - Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder (if using), and oregano. If you want a more intense Greek flavor, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for an added kick. Stir everything together so that the spices and oil are evenly mixed. - Marinate the Halloumi:
Brush both sides of the Halloumi slices with the marinade. If you have the time, let the Halloumi sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the cheese. If you’re in a rush, don’t worry; you can grill it right away, but marinating helps enhance the overall taste. - Grill the Halloumi Cheese:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the Halloumi slices onto the grill. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, or until you see golden-brown grill marks and the cheese has developed a crispy exterior. The inside should remain soft and gooey. Tip: If you are grilling multiple slices, avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can cause the Halloumi to cook unevenly. - Serve with Fresh Garnishes:
Once your Halloumi is perfectly grilled, remove it from the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or mint to add a refreshing herbal flavor. - Serving Suggestions:
Serve the crispy gooey grilled Halloumi as a part of a larger meal. It pairs perfectly with Mediterranean salads, vegetables, or even seafood. You can serve it as part of a seafood board, use it in a cheese salad recipe, or simply enjoy it as a healthy vegetarian appetizer.
Why Grilled Halloumi Cheese is Perfect for Your Meals
Grilled Halloumi cheese is more than just a tasty dish; it’s also a healthy, budget-friendly option for people who want to enjoy delicious flavors without breaking the bank. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding this Greek cheese to your meals:
- Health Benefits:
Halloumi cheese is high in protein, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. For those looking for vegetarian alternatives to meats, Halloumi provides a solid protein punch. It’s also rich in calcium and offers a good source of healthy fats, which help support bone and heart health. - Low-Cost Option:
Compared to other cheeses, Halloumi offers great value for the price. It can be used in many recipes, making it an economical choice for people looking to make healthy meals without spending too much. - Versatility:
Halloumi is incredibly versatile. While this recipe focuses on grilled Halloumi, the cheese can also be used in salads, sandwiches, or even paired with fruits like watermelon or figs for a sweet and savory contrast. Its firm texture ensures that it won’t fall apart when cooked, making it a great option for grilling or frying. - Perfect for Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes:
If you enjoy Greek cuisine, you will love Halloumi cheese. It fits perfectly into Mediterranean dishes, pairing well with ingredients like olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs like mint and oregano. The addition of Halloumi adds a unique flavor profile and texture to these dishes.
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Grilled Halloumi cheese is incredibly versatile, and its savory, slightly salty taste can complement a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what you can serve with it:
- Seafood Board:
Create an amazing seafood board by combining grilled Halloumi with seafood like grilled shrimp, octopus, or smoked salmon. Add some pickles, olives, and fresh vegetables to bring in even more Mediterranean flavors. This makes for a perfect appetizer or light meal. - Vegetarian Appetizer:
Halloumi cheese is the perfect vegetarian appetizer, especially when paired with a variety of fresh vegetables or a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad. Add some hummus, pita bread, or olives for an extra Mediterranean touch. - Cheese Salad Recipes:
Grilled Halloumi can be used as the star ingredient in a cheese salad. Try adding it to a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, olives, and a lemon-oregano dressing. The warm, gooey texture of the cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh veggies and tangy dressing. - Wraps and Sandwiches:
Slice the grilled Halloumi and add it to a wrap or sandwich with some fresh veggies, a drizzle of tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s an excellent option for a quick, nutritious lunch. - Healthy Grain Bowls:
Halloumi can also be added to a grain bowl with quinoa, couscous, or rice. Top it with roasted vegetables, avocado, and a tangy dressing for a filling and healthy meal.
How to Cook Halloumi for Different Dishes
Halloumi is not limited to just grilling; it can also be used in a variety of cooking methods. Here’s how to cook Halloumi in different ways to add variety to your dishes:
- Fried Halloumi:
For a crispy texture on the outside with a gooey interior, pan-fry Halloumi slices in a little olive oil until golden brown on both sides. It can be added to salads or served with a side of fruit. - Baked Halloumi:
You can bake Halloumi in the oven, making it a great option for casseroles or mixed with roasted vegetables. Simply drizzle with olive oil and bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes or until golden. - Halloumi Skewers:
Cube the Halloumi cheese and thread it onto skewers, alternating with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Grill or broil the skewers until the cheese is crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. - Halloumi in Salads:
Halloumi can be added to a salad either grilled, fried, or even raw. It pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and leafy greens, making it a great addition to any Mediterranean-inspired salad.
Final Thoughts on Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Crispy gooey grilled Halloumi cheese is a versatile, healthy, and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you’re creating a seafood board, adding it to a cheese salad recipe, or serving it as a vegetarian appetizer, Halloumi never disappoints. Its firm texture and ability to hold its shape when grilled make it perfect for those looking to enjoy a cheesy dish without the usual mess. With its Mediterranean roots, Halloumi also offers a way to incorporate healthy, flavorful ingredients into your meals without breaking the bank. Give this recipe a try, and discover why grilled Halloumi cheese is taking the culinary world by storm!
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