Grilled Halloumi Salad

Posted October 13, 2023 by: Admin #Kitchen

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Middle Eastern-inspired grilled halloumi salad, a superb choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare (ready in less than 15 minutes!), but it’s also a rich source of flavors, fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats. Whether you seek a light lunch or a simple side dish, this grilled halloumi salad boasts vibrant colors and delectable tastes.

Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe

Unveiling the Wonders of Halloumi Cheese

Halloumi cheese hails from the Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus, where it has long been cherished. This distinctive cheese is characterized by its layered, semi-hard, unripened, brined nature, offering a pleasantly rubbery texture and a touch of saltiness. Typically crafted from a blend of sheep’s milk, goat’s milk, and/or cow’s milk, halloumi can be enjoyed fresh, but its firm texture and high melting point make it ideal for grilling or pan-frying without losing its shape.

Is Halloumi a Healthy Choice?

Halloumi, composed of milk, salt, microbial enzymes, and bacterial cultures, is indeed a nutritious cheese selection. Like most cheeses, halloumi is a rich source of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, including vitamin A and calcium. A mere 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of halloumi provides the following nutritional content (1):

Calories: 100
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 7 grams
Fat: 9 grams

Mastering the Art of Grilling Halloumi

Grilling halloumi cheese is a straightforward process, whether you’re using a grill, grill pan, or skillet. Here’s how to perfect your grilled halloumi:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Slice the halloumi into 1/4- or 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Place the halloumi slices directly on the grill.
Cook the halloumi for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
Plate and serve!

If you’ve yet to savor the joys of halloumi cheese, prepare to be enchanted! The first time I tried halloumi is somewhat of a blur, but that initial bite left no doubt that it would be a permanent part of my culinary repertoire. Its uniquely squeaky texture and briny flavor make halloumi cheese a versatile ingredient, suited to a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches to salads.

Grilled Halloumi Salad

Elevate your dining experience with this delectable grilled halloumi salad – a quick and easy vegetarian delight. Paired with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fluffy couscous, this halloumi salad recipe serves as a scrumptious and straightforward side dish.

Ingredients

250 grams halloumi
1/4 cup dry couscous
3 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1/2 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and sliced
1/4 cup parsley, roughly chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/4 teaspoon salt
A pinch of black pepper

Instructions

Cook the couscous following the package instructions.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Slice the halloumi into 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch pieces and grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they are crispy and golden brown. Set aside once cooked. (You can do this in batches if needed.)
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and toss to blend. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Top your salad with warm grilled halloumi and serve immediately.
Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.