Are you a cheese lover looking for new ways to get your halloumi fix? Look no further! This Cypriot favorite has taken the culinary world by storm with its unique salty-sweet flavor and satisfyingly crispy texture. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and indulgent, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious halloumi recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic pairings like grilled halloumi with honey and sesame to more adventurous creations like halloumi stuffed peppers and halloumi tacos with lime crema, we’re diving into the world of crispy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of savory snacks or sweet treats, these recipes are sure to inspire your next cooking adventure.
So grab a block of halloumi and let’s get started!
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Sesame
Halloumi cheese is a Cypriot delight that’s perfect for grilling, and when paired with honey and sesame, it becomes a sweet and savory treat. This simple recipe brings together the salty cheese, floral honey, and nutty sesame for a flavor combination you won’t forget.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 1 tsp of sesame seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into slices about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with a little water and season with salt.
4. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, until it develops a nice char.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and sesame seeds.
6. Once the cheese is cooked, brush it with the honey-sesame mixture.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Greek cuisine, this salad combines the salty tang of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of watermelon, all tied together by a drizzle of zesty lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 6 oz)
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, mint leaves, and halloumi cheese.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation only)
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique side dish at your next outdoor gathering.
Halloumi Fries with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and creamy combination of halloumi cheese fries and garlic aioli. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into fry shapes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic aioli ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each halloumi piece into the beaten egg and then coat with the flour mixture.
4. Fry the halloumi pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix garlic aioli ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve hot halloumi fries with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
Elevate your toast game with this simple yet impressive recipe, combining the tangy flavor of halloumi cheese with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
– 100g halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for squeezing
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Place the halloumi slices on top of the avocado.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, with optional lemon wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together halloumi cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 4
Halloumi and Mushroom Skewers
Savory Skewers of Halloumi and Mushroom
These skewers are a perfect combination of crispy, salty cheese and tender, earthy mushrooms. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these flavorful bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 8-10 cremini mushrooms, cleaned and stemmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a piece of halloumi cheese, a few mushrooms, and a sprinkle of garlic onto each skewer.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the cheese is golden brown and the mushrooms are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Halloumi Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this unique combination of crispy halloumi, crunchy slaw, and tangy lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup of lime crema (see below for recipe)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup of shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Lime Crema Recipe:
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the Halloumi into thin slices.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the Halloumi for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a slice of Halloumi onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of slaw (cabbage and red onion), and finishing with a dollop of lime crema.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Spinach Puff Pastry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or dried thyme for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the crumbled halloumi cheese evenly over one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the cheese with the spinach and season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or thyme.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch dish. The crispy hash browns and caramelized onions add texture and flavor to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 100g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-low heat. Cook onions for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add crumbled halloumi to the skillet with the onions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted and golden.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with the onion-halloumi mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl that combines the creaminess of halloumi cheese with the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a vibrant mix of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 1 can of chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. Place the chickpeas in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the sliced red bell pepper and cucumber until tender.
5. Arrange the mixed greens on a serving plate or bowl.
6. Top the greens with the cooked vegetables, chickpeas, and halloumi cheese slices.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters
Savory and crunchy fritters filled with the creamy cheese of Halloumi and the sweetness of zucchini, perfect for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine zucchini, Halloumi cheese, flour, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a batter forms.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters!
Halloumi and Tomato Bruschetta
A flavorful twist on classic bruschetta, this recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, brush the baguette slices with the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil.
4. Top each bread slice with a piece of halloumi cheese, a few roasted tomatoes, and a sprinkle of garlic.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi and Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
Transform humble eggplants into a flavorful Mediterranean masterpiece with this recipe featuring creamy Halloumi cheese, nutritious lentils, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled Halloumi cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked lentils, olive oil, onion, garlic, Halloumi cheese, and oregano.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the lentil mixture, dividing it evenly between the two.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggplants are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halloumi and Pineapple Kebabs
Simplify your summer cooking with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the juiciness of pineapple. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Thread halloumi cheese cubes, pineapple chunks, and a few drops of the honey-garlic mixture onto each skewer.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the halloumi is golden brown and the pineapple is caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Halloumi and Beetroot Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy sweetness of beetroot, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or dinner, this salad is also great as a side dish or added to a charcuterie board.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place the beetroot slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar and honey.
5. Arrange the roasted beetroot, halloumi cheese, and chopped parsley (if using) on a platter.
6. Drizzle with the dressing and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Halloumi and Black Bean Quesadillas
Combine the creamy richness of Halloumi cheese with the bold flavor of black beans and spices, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. This unique quesadilla is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled Halloumi cheese, cooked black beans, diced red onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese-black bean mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
Halloumi and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled halloumi cheese, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and minced garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Divide the halloumi mixture among the mushrooms, spooning it into 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 the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with crispy roasted vegetables and melted halloumi cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 100g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized bell peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Toss the zucchinis and bell peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking tray.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wrap by placing the roasted vegetables on one half of the tortilla, followed by sliced halloumi cheese.
6. Fold the other half of the tortilla over to enclose the filling.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, cheesy goodness of halloumi with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From grilled halloumi with honey and sesame to halloumi tacos with lime crema, and from halloumi fries with garlic aioli to halloumi and spinach puff pastry, there’s something for every cheese lover. Discover new ways to enjoy this Cypriot classic, whether as a snack, side dish, or main course. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
