Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Halloumi Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining the salty, savory flavor of grilled halloumi cheese with the crispness of fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, this salad is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Halloumi, a semi-firm cheese that holds up wonderfully to grilling, becomes golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and chewy on the inside, adding a unique depth to the salad.

This salad is versatile and can be served as a main dish or as a refreshing side to complement your meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or seeking a nutritious dinner option, Grilled Halloumi Salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s also vegetarian and can be easily customized to suit your dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Halloumi Salad

• Full of Flavor: The grilled halloumi brings a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad ingredients. The slightly salty cheese is balanced perfectly with the tangy dressing and the sweetness of the vegetables.
• Quick and Easy to Make: This salad comes together quickly and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen. The halloumi takes just minutes to grill, and the rest of the salad can be prepared while the cheese is cooking.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and high in protein from the halloumi, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a great option for those looking to eat a balanced meal without feeling overly full or heavy.
• Customizable: The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your personal taste or what you have on hand. You can also add nuts, fruits, or additional proteins to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course for dinner, this Grilled Halloumi Salad is adaptable and works with a variety of meals.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the size of the portions and dressing used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Protein: 18-20g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 200g (7 oz) halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, or mixed baby greens)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or orange)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small avocado, sliced (optional for added creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Special Equipment

While making Grilled Halloumi Salad doesn’t require special equipment, there are a few items that will make the process easier and more efficient:

1. Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A grill pan works great for cooking the halloumi indoors, while an outdoor grill provides a smokier flavor. Both methods will result in a wonderfully crisp texture on the outside of the cheese.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the halloumi into even pieces as well as for cutting the vegetables into the desired shape.
3. Large Salad Bowl: To toss and mix the salad ingredients with ease, use a large bowl that allows you to gently combine everything without overcrowding.
4. Whisk: You’ll need a whisk to combine the ingredients for the dressing. This ensures that the oil and lemon juice emulsify properly and coat the salad ingredients evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients

Start by preparing the vegetables for the salad. Wash and dry the mixed greens, and place them in a large salad bowl. Slice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into thin pieces. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, and if you’re using avocado, slice it into thin wedges.

Set the vegetables aside while you prepare the halloumi.

2. Grill the Halloumi

To grill the halloumi, heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, lightly grease it with a little olive oil to prevent the cheese from sticking.

Place the halloumi slices on the grill pan or grill, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown grill marks appear and the cheese is slightly crispy on the outside. Be careful not to overcook the halloumi, as it can become too firm. Once grilled, remove the halloumi from the heat and set it aside.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey depending on your preference.

4. Assemble the Salad

Once the halloumi is grilled and the dressing is ready, it’s time to assemble the salad. Place the mixed greens into the salad bowl and top them with the prepared cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and avocado (if using).

Carefully add the grilled halloumi on top of the salad. The warm halloumi will slightly wilt the greens, adding to the overall flavor of the dish.

5. Toss the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated. You can serve the salad immediately or let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salad for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Grilled Halloumi Salad immediately, either as a main course or a side dish, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Grilled Halloumi Salad

• Don’t Overcook the Halloumi: Halloumi is best when it’s grilled until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Avoid cooking it for too long, as it can become rubbery and tough.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Roasted beets, olives, or even some fresh herbs like mint or basil can elevate the salad further.
• Use a Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a key ingredient in the dressing, be sure to use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Grill the Vegetables: For an extra layer of flavor, you can grill some of the vegetables, like the bell pepper or cucumber, before adding them to the salad. This gives the salad a smokier taste and adds more depth.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: If you like a bit of crunch in your salad, try adding toasted nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts. These will provide a nice texture contrast to the creamy halloumi and the fresh vegetables.

Variations of Grilled Halloumi Salad

• Add Quinoa for Extra Protein: For a more filling salad, add cooked quinoa or couscous to the base. This will provide additional fiber and protein to keep you feeling full longer.
• Mediterranean Style: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version of this salad. The salty olives and feta complement the grilled halloumi beautifully.
• Grilled Fruit Salad: For a sweet and savory twist, add grilled fruits like peaches, figs, or pineapple to the salad. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the savory halloumi.
• Spicy Grilled Halloumi Salad: Add a little heat to your salad by tossing in some sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Grilled Halloumi Salad: For a vegan version, substitute the halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also use plant-based cheese alternatives if desired.

Storage and Shelf Life

Grilled Halloumi Salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the grilled cheese can lose its texture if stored for too long. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The vegetables will stay crisp, but the halloumi may become a bit firmer when chilled.

To reheat the leftover halloumi, place it in a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until it softens again. If you’re serving the salad the next day, consider serving the halloumi separately to keep it from losing its texture.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Grilled Halloumi Salad

To make your meal even more satisfying, pair this salad with the following dishes:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: The salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a light and healthy protein option to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: For a delicious and comforting side, serve your salad with a slice of crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
• Hummus and Pita Bread: A side of creamy hummus and warm pita bread complements the fresh flavors of the salad and makes for a more substantial meal.
• Couscous or Rice Pilaf: Serve this salad with couscous or a rice pilaf for a more filling, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Grilled Veggies: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a lighter, vegetable-forward meal.

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Conclusion

Grilled Halloumi Salad is a refreshing, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of grilled cheese, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a vibrant side dish for a barbecue, this salad is a versatile and delicious choice. Easy to make and customizable to suit your tastes, Grilled Halloumi Salad is a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!