Are you a cheese lover looking for inspiration to elevate your snack game or impress your friends with a unique dish? Look no further! Halloumi, a Cypriot cheese known for its creamy texture and golden crust, is the perfect ingredient to add some excitement to your meals. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 crispy halloumi recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
From classic combinations like grilled halloumi with honey and thyme to innovative twists like halloumi fries with garlic aioli, these recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved cheese. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory flavors or bold and spicy combinations, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for our comprehensive list of 20 crispy halloumi recipes that will take your culinary adventures to new heights!
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Thyme
This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a summer evening or a quick dinner party. The combination of grilled halloumi, sweet honey, and fragrant thyme will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi into thick rounds, about 1 inch in thickness.
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, warm the honey by microwaving it for 10 seconds or placing it near the grill.
6. Once the halloumi is cooked, brush it with the warmed honey and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the creamy sweetness of grilled halloumi cheese with the juiciness of watermelon, perfectly balanced by a hint of tangy feta and fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 cups of diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the halloumi cheese with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
5. Slice the grilled halloumi into thin strips and add to the salad.
6. Toss gently to combine, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Halloumi Fries with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crispy Halloumi cheese fries and creamy garlic aioli. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, cut into fry shapes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each Halloumi piece into the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated Halloumi for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the aioli.
6. Serve the fried Halloumi with garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and savory Halloumi and Avocado Toast recipe. This Mediterranean-inspired treat combines the richness of melted Halloumi cheese with the freshness of ripe avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 slice of whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 slices of Halloumi cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill), or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the Halloumi cubes in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until melted and slightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread slice.
4. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
5. Add the cooked Halloumi cheese on top of the avocado.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
Savory halloumi cheese pairs perfectly with sweet bell peppers in this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of cooked rice
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine crumbled halloumi cheese, cooked rice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the halloumi mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Halloumi and Mushroom Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful skewers featuring salty halloumi cheese, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and stemmed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate halloumi cheese and mushroom pieces on skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the skewers, then sprinkle with garlic and parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until halloumi is golden brown and mushrooms are tender.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Halloumi Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with the creamy, salty goodness of Halloumi cheese and a burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below for recipe)
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Zest of 1 lime, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook the Halloumi cheese according to package instructions until slightly charred and melted.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing a piece of Halloumi on each tortilla, topping with lime crema, cilantro, jalapeño, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 5 minutes to cook the Halloumi
– 1 minute to warm the tortillas
Halloumi and Spinach Filo Pie
Halloumi and Spinach Filo Pie: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in crispy filo pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 200g fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup of filo pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing filo)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. In a separate pan, heat the crumbled halloumi cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Layer the filo pastry in a pie dish, brushing each sheet with beaten egg.
5. Fill the pie crust with the spinach mixture, followed by the melted halloumi cheese.
6. Top with remaining filo sheets and brush with egg.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Halloumi Burger with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this unique combination of crispy halloumi cheese, juicy beef patty, and creamy spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef patties
– 4 slices of halloumi cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (optional)
– Spicy Mayo (see below for recipe)
Spicy Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook beef patties according to desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, slice halloumi cheese into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
4. Grill or toast buns until lightly browned.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading spicy mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a beef patty, a few slices of halloumi cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles (if using).
6. Top with top bun.
Cooking Time:
– Beef patties: 3-4 minutes per side
– Halloumi cheese: 1-2 minutes per side
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, this Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato 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-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the roasted sweet potato to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Arrange the halloumi slices on top of the sweet potato mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Curry
Halloumi and Chickpea Curry Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy richness of Halloumi cheese with the comforting warmth of chickpeas in a flavorful curry. The perfect blend of Mediterranean and Indian spices creates a deliciously aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to meld together.
6. Add the chickpeas and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Stir in the Halloumi cheese cubes. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and creamy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the creamy sweetness of halloumi cheese with the tender flavor of zucchini, making them a perfect snack or side dish for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated halloumi cheese
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine halloumi cheese, zucchini, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Beat in the egg until well combined.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the skillet.
5. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Halloumi and Beetroot Salad
A sweet and savory combination of textures, this salad brings together the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 250g Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place the beetroot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, pan-fry the halloumi slices in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. To assemble the salad, place the roasted beetroot on a plate, top with the fried halloumi, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Halloumi and Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
A Mediterranean-inspired twist on traditional stuffed eggplants, this recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the comforting warmth of lentils. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup crumbled halloumi cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves 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 eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, crumbled halloumi cheese, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the lentil-halloumi mixture, dividing it evenly among the two.
5. Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggplants are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Halloumi and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful fusion of crumbly halloumi cheese, sweet tomatoes, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese (about 6 oz)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes and salt to taste.
4. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the bread and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
6. Top each bread slice with a piece of halloumi, a spoonful of tomato mixture, and a sprinkle of chopped basil (if using).
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Pineapple Kebabs
Elevate your BBQ game with this sweet and savory kebab recipe, perfect for a quick summer dinner or party appetizer. The salty cheese and caramelized pineapple will have you hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or BBQ to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the halloumi cheese, pineapple chunks, and a few sprigs of fresh mint (if using) onto each skewer.
3. Brush the kebabs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is golden brown and the pineapple is caramelized.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Halloumi and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creaminess of halloumi cheese with the nutty goodness of quinoa, all wrapped up in a sweet bell pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 200g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
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 bowl, mix together quinoa, halloumi cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Brush the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Halloumi and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
A sweet and savory combination that will elevate your flatbread game! This recipe pairs the creamy, salty goodness of halloumi cheese with the deep, caramel flavors of slow-cooked onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled halloumi cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to desired thickness. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread caramelized onions over the center of the flatbread, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle halloumi cheese over the onions.
5. Fold the edges of the flatbread up and over the filling, creating a crust.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl
Experience the perfect blend of creamy cheese, caramelized vegetables, and nutty grain in this satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 block Halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and red onions)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Cut the Halloumi cheese into bite-sized pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked quinoa or brown rice, roasted vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of the grain mixture at the bottom, followed by a few pieces of roasted Halloumi cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Pesto Pasta Bake
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines the tangy goodness of Halloumi cheese with the rich flavors of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
– 2 tbsp. pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Halloumi cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Toss to combine.
5. In a large baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture followed by half of the Halloumi cubes. Repeat the layers.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the creamy, crispy goodness of Halloumi with these 20 mouthwatering recipe ideas! From classic combinations like Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Thyme to innovative twists like Halloumi Tacos with Lime Crema and Halloumi Burger with Spicy Mayo, there’s something for every cheese lover. Discover how this versatile Cypriot cheese can elevate salads, sandwiches, skewers, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, these crispy Halloumi recipes are sure to impress.
