When it comes to cheeses, halloumi is a game-changer. This Cypriot delight has gained worldwide popularity for its unique texture and flavor profile. It’s a firm cheese that can be grilled, pan-fried, or even baked, making it a versatile ingredient for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, halloumi is the perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey with 18 mouth-watering halloumi cheese recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends.
Grilled Halloumi with Lemon and Herbs
Savor the sweet and salty flavors of Cyprus with this simple yet impressive grilled halloumi recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Brush both sides of the halloumi with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
5. While the cheese is cooking, mix together parsley, mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Once the cheese is cooked, serve immediately with a dollop of the herb mixture and a wedge of lemon on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the creamy sweetness of grilled halloumi cheese with the juicy freshness of watermelon, perfect for hot days. The tangy feta and mint add a delightful contrast to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese
– 2 cups diced watermelon
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the halloumi with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
4. Slice the grilled halloumi into thick pieces and add to the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grilling time)
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy richness of Halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together crumbled Halloumi cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the Halloumi mixture, filling to the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
A flavorful twist on traditional avocado toast, this recipe combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the savory goodness of grilled halloumi cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 100g Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
5. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
6. Place the grilled halloumi slices on top of the avocado.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi Tacos with Spicy Salsa
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the creamy sweetness of halloumi cheese with the bold flavors of spicy salsa. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup of lime juice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and jalapeño and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced halloumi to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing the cooked halloumi onto a tortilla, followed by a squeeze of lime juice and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional skewers, this recipe combines the salty goodness of halloumi cheese with a variety of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 2cm pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 2cm pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1cm wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1cm slices
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
2. Thread halloumi, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and zucchini onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender and cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi Fries with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and crispy combination of halloumi fries paired with a rich garlic aioli. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into fry shapes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip halloumi fries into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry halloumi for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic aioli ingredients. Serve with fried halloumi and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (frying time + preparation)
Halloumi and Spinach Quiche
A delicious brunch or dinner option, this quiche combines the creamy flavor of halloumi cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 250g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a quiche dish.
3. In a pan, sauté spinach with a pinch of salt until wilted.
4. Arrange cooked spinach at the bottom of the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle crumbled halloumi cheese on top of spinach.
6. Whisk eggs and heavy cream together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour egg mixture over the cheese and spinach.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halloumi and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated halloumi cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in halloumi cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Halloumi Burger with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with this sweet and savory combination featuring halloumi cheese, caramelized onions, and a toasted bun. This unique twist on the classic will surely impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Caramelize the onions by cooking them in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
3. Grill the halloumi cheese slices until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the burgers by spreading a layer of caramelized onions on each bun, followed by a slice of grilled halloumi, lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including onion caramelization)
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash: A savory and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into thin pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the sliced halloumi cheese to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. To assemble the hash, place the roasted sweet potatoes on a serving plate or platter, and top with the crispy halloumi cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the nutty taste of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic blend of spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1 can of chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can of coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the halloumi cubes and stir gently to distribute evenly.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Halloumi and Pesto Pasta
Savor the combination of creamy pesto sauce, melted halloumi cheese, and al dente pasta in this easy-to-make recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add halloumi cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until melted and slightly browned.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the halloumi and pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters
A delicious twist on traditional fritters, these crispy treats combine the creamy goodness of halloumi cheese with the subtle sweetness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, combine crumbled halloumi, grated zucchini, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Tomato Bruschetta
Experience the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors with this simple yet flavorful bruschetta recipe, featuring salty halloumi cheese, sweet tomatoes, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle the garlic-olive oil mixture evenly over the bread.
4. Top each bread slice with a piece of halloumi cheese and a few cherry tomato halves.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the bread is crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Lentil Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creamy flavor of halloumi cheese with the earthy taste of lentils, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 250g cooked lentils
– 120g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, sliced halloumi cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Halloumi and Eggplant Parmesan
This unique vegetarian take on traditional eggplant parmesan adds the creamy, salty flavor of halloumi cheese to the mix. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 12 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip eggplant slices in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry coated eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, cook sliced halloumi cheese until golden and slightly crispy.
5. Assemble the parmesan by layering tomato sauce, fried eggplant, and cooked halloumi cheese in a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with crispy roasted vegetables, creamy halloumi cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 2-3 slices of halloumi cheese
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
5. Warm the tortilla in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the wrap by placing the roasted vegetables, halloumi cheese, and garlic on one half of the tortilla.
7. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 18 mouth-watering halloumi cheese recipes! From classic combinations like grilled halloumi with lemon and herbs, to innovative twists like halloumi tacos with spicy salsa and halloumi fries with garlic aioli, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty and satisfying main course, these recipes will have you hooked. With options ranging from sweet potato hash to eggplant parmesan, you’ll never tire of this versatile cheese.
Leave a Reply