When it comes to summer barbecues, nothing quite compares to the sizzle of Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Herbs. Picture this: golden-brown cheese slices, slightly charred from the grill, releasing a warm, savory aroma that dances through the air and beckons everyone to gather around. The unique texture of halloumiβcrispy on the outside while remaining delectably soft on the insideβcreates an irresistible contrast thatβll have your taste buds singing.
Now, letβs take a stroll down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried grilled halloumi at a friendβs outdoor party. The cheese was so rich and flavorful that I couldnβt resist sneaking seconds (and thirds). It became an instant favorite, perfect for a summer gathering or as a fancy appetizer for guests. Trust me; itβll have everyone buzzing with excitement as they experience this delicious flavor explosion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Herbs is super easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for unexpected guests
- Its delightful mix of flavors elevates any meal, transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary feasts
- Visually stunning with its golden crust and vibrant herbs, it serves as an eye-catching centerpiece
- Plus, itβs versatile enough to enjoy as an appetizer or sandwich filler!
The day my friends tried this recipe, their eyes widened in delight. They couldnβt believe how quickly it disappeared!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Halloumi Cheese: Look for high-quality halloumi; it should be firm yet slightly springy when pressed.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; itβs essential for grilling.
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Fresh Herbs: A mix of rosemary and thyme works wonders; choose vibrant green herbs for maximum flavor.
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Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds brightness and elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Chili Flakes: Optional but highly recommended; they add a delightful kick and balance the richness of the cheese.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it together
Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; you want it hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks on the cheese.
Slice The Halloumi: Cut the halloumi into Β½-inch thick slices; this thickness will help prevent the cheese from melting through the grates.
Mix The Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and chili flakes; whisk them together until well blended and fragrant.
Marinate The Cheese: Brush each slice generously with your herb-infused olive oil mixture; let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb those lovely flavors.
Grill The Halloumi: Place the marinated slices on the preheated grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side; look for that lovely golden-brown color and a crispy exterior.
Serve Warm: Once grilled to perfection, transfer your halloumi to a serving platter; garnish with more fresh herbs and squeeze fresh lemon juice over top for added zing.
And there you have itβa simple yet elegant dish that promises to impress! Each bite delivers an explosion of flavors that perfectly balances salty and savory notes with herbal freshness. Enjoy this grilled halloumi cheese with friends or family while basking in the warm glow of summer evenings!
You Must Know
- Grilled Halloumi cheese is a game changer for summer BBQs
- Its unique texture and savory flavor make it perfect for veggie skewers or salads
- Plus, the aroma of it sizzling on the grill is simply irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing halloumi about half an inch thick, then preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill each side for about three minutes until golden brown. This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside delightfully soft.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme, or add chili flakes for a spicy kick. You can also serve halloumi with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pan-fry for a couple of minutes on medium heat until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use firm halloumi cheese; softer types will fall apart on the grill
- Preheat your grill well for optimal sear marks and flavor
- Pair with fresh vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful dish
Grilling halloumi has become my go-to dish when friends visit. One evening, I served it at a gathering, and everyone raved about its unique texture and flavor, making it an instant hit!
FAQ
Can I use regular cheese instead of halloumi?
Regular cheese may not hold its shape on the grill like halloumi does.
What herbs pair best with grilled halloumi cheese?
Fresh basil, thyme, and mint all enhance grilled halloumiβs unique taste wonderfully.
How do I know when my halloumi is done grilling?
Look for a golden brown color and a slightly crispy texture on both sides.
Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Herbs
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Herbs is the ultimate summer delight, perfect for barbecues and gatherings. This dish features golden-brown halloumi slices, grilled to crispy perfection while remaining soft and flavorful inside. Infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of lemon, it promises a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. Serve as an appetizer or elevate your sandwichesβeither way, itβs sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into Β½-inch thick pieces
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Β½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and chili flakes.
- Brush the herb-infused mixture on both sides of each halloumi slice and let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Grill halloumi for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with additional herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 oz (57g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for added flavor. For a sweet twist, drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the grilled halloumi before serving.