Enjoy this rich and smoky Grilled Halloumi Cheese as a flavorful burger topping or a snazzy appetizer.
Hailing from the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, halloumi is a rich and chewy semi-hard cheese that is pretty unbeatable when it comes to grilling. Traditionally made from a mix of goat and sheep’s milk, you only need to add a little olive oil before popping it on your BBQ or grill pan to get those signature caramelized ridges.
Of course, you can season your grilled halloumi in any way you’d like. I prefer a sprinkling of garlic salt, but some folks like to jazz it up with a teaspoon or two of cayenne pepper, or even some dried mint leaves. Whether you like it more savory or spicy, grilled halloumi cheese is designed to please.
Not only does it make an excellent snack, but it’s also the perfect topping for salads, burgers, or Buddha bowls. With a light char on the outside and a chewy, salty interior, grilled halloumi cheese is a one-of-a-kind component to almost any meal.
Can I grill other types of cheese?
While halloumi is fantastic for grilling, it isn’t the only cheese you can test out during grilling season. Try Indian paneer, Greek manouri or kefalotyri, or even Mexican queso panela. All these firm cheeses will reward you with charred ridges and a hint of smoky flavor. You can even cook soft cheeses on your BBQ, provided you wrap them in aluminum foil first. Try Brie or Camembert, for instance.
How do I store leftovers?
Once your grilled halloumi cheese has cooled to room temperature, you can easily store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3 to 4 days before reheating on the grill or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. I’ve also enjoyed it cold before, sometimes cut into cubes and sprinkled over salad. Keep your mind open to the possibilities, because halloumi is surprisingly versatile!
Serving suggestions
What can’t we do with grilled halloumi cheese? Truly, this dynamic little dish can be served in all kinds of ways. But I’ll do my best to narrow down some favorites! For a meal that’s light and bright, top it onto Southwest Quinoa Salad or a Mediterranean Bowl. You can also try a slice in your Cowboy Burger. On the other hand, it also makes an excellent appetizer alongside Beet Hummus or Red Pepper Hummus and Pita Bread. Whether grilled halloumi is the main star of your dining table or a supporting role, it will taste outstanding.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Instructions
- Pat the halloumi dry with paper towels and slice it into 1/3-inch thick pieces.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil.
- Place the slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until you see grill marks and the cheese is slightly soft to the touch.
- Remove the halloumi from the grill immediately and serve warm. Enjoy on its own or as part of a light appetizer plate.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Thank you for sharing this recipe
Thank you so much Linda! So happy you enjoyed this recipe!