Crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible, halloumi cheese is a Mediterranean staple that’s perfect for snacking, grilling, or adding to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer or a show-stopping main course, this iconic cheese has got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious halloumi recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your next meal.
From classic combinations like grilled halloumi with honey and thyme to more adventurous pairings like halloumi and watermelon salad, these crispy cheese creations are sure to delight. So grab some halloumi and get ready to elevate your culinary game with these mouthwatering recipes!
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Thyme
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Thyme: A sweet and savory twist on this Cypriot cheese classic!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 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. Cut the halloumi into slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with a little water.
4. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
5. While the cheese is grilling, mix together the honey and thyme leaves in a small bowl.
6. Once the cheese is cooked, brush it with the honey-thyme mixture on both sides.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing salad combines the salty sweetness of Halloumi cheese with the coolness of watermelon, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese (about 8 oz), sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about half a small melon)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Halloumi cheese and diced watermelon.
2. Sprinkle the chopped fresh mint leaves over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, ensuring all the ingredients are lightly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Halloumi Fries with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the crunch of fried potatoes and the pungency of garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into long, thin strips
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic aioli ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry potato strips in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. Meanwhile, slice halloumi cheese into thin strips and separate them from each other.
4. In a small bowl, mix garlic aioli ingredients together.
5. Serve hot fried potatoes with crispy halloumi fries and dollop of garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and savory combination of halloumi cheese, ripe avocado, and crispy whole grain bread. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick fix.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 120g)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
4. Arrange the halloumi strips on top of the avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, some red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy, salty cheese of Halloumi with sweet bell peppers and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 Halloumi cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Halloumi and Mushroom Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and easy-to-make halloumi and mushroom skewers. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a halloumi cube, followed by a mushroom slice, onto each skewer. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up, leaving a small space between each pair.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the halloumi is golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Halloumi Tacos with Lime Crema
Experience the creamy, cheesy fusion of Greek and Mexican cuisine with this unique recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block Halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Zest of 1 lime, grated
Instructions:
1. Grill or pan-fry the Halloumi cheese strips until golden and slightly charred.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by placing grilled Halloumi on a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of lime crema, some chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of jalapeño.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Grill or pan-fry the cheese: 2-3 minutes per side
– Assemble tacos: 5 minutes
Halloumi and Spinach Filo Pie
A twist on traditional spanakopita, this Halloumi and Spinach Filo Pie combines the creaminess of cheese with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped in crispy filo pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 250g fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 package filo pastry (usually found in the freezer section)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. In a pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled halloumi and beaten egg.
4. Layer filo pastry in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil. Spoon spinach mixture, then cheese mixture on top of the filo.
5. Roll out remaining filo sheets to fit the top of the pie. Brush with olive oil and place on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halloumi Burger with Tzatziki
Elevate your burger game with the creamy and tangy flavors of Greece. This Halloumi Burger with Tzatziki is a unique twist on the classic patty, topped with melted cheese, fresh herbs, and a refreshing yogurt-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread
– 2 halloumi cheese blocks
– 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– 2 red onion slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi cheese into thin strips.
3. Grill the cheese for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices with olive oil.
5. Assemble the burgers by placing a grilled halloumi strip on each toasted slice, followed by a lettuce leaf, tomato slice, red onion slice, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Halloumi and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the salty, savory flavor of Halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add crumbled Halloumi cheese to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until melted and golden brown.
5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the Halloumi mixture. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Curry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the comforting warmth of a chickpea curry, perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 250g halloumi cheese, sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in sliced halloumi cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Halloumi and Beetroot Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the earthy sweetness of beetroot, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
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 or dill leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the sliced beetroot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, cook the halloumi cheese slices in a pan with a little water over medium heat until lightly browned on both sides.
6. In a large bowl, combine the roasted beetroot, cooked halloumi cheese, and white wine vinegar.
7. Stir to combine, then drizzle with honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Halloumi and Zucchini Fritters
Transform your taste buds with this crispy and flavorful recipe! Halloumi’s salty charm pairs perfectly with the sweetness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a crunchy fritter.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup grated halloumi cheese
• 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine halloumi, zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the pan (about 1/4 cup each).
4. Flatten slightly with a spatula to form fritters.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Halloumi and Lentil Stuffed Eggplant
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of halloumi cheese, the heartiness of lentils, and the sweetness of roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium 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 place them on a baking sheet.
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. Drizzle the top of each stuffed eggplant with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Halloumi and Tomato Bruschetta
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional bruschetta, this recipe combines the creamy richness of Halloumi cheese with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
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 olive oil, garlic, and basil.
4. Brush the mixture onto the toasted baguette slices.
5. Top each slice with a few pieces of diced tomato and a piece or two of Halloumi cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Halloumi and Pineapple Kebabs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines the creamy, salty goodness of Halloumi cheese with the tropical sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch strips
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch strips
– 1 onion, sliced into 1-inch rings
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread Halloumi cheese, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cheese is melted and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Halloumi and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
These vibrant bell peppers are packed with a flavorful filling of crispy halloumi cheese, nutty quinoa, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled halloumi cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
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 cooked quinoa, crumbled halloumi cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture and top with any remaining cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Halloumi and Corn Fritters
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fritters, these bite-sized treats combine the creaminess of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of corn. Perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup grated halloumi cheese
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 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, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. Add the grated halloumi cheese, corn kernels, buttermilk, and egg to the bowl. Mix until a thick batter forms.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Pomegranate Salad
Halloumi and Pomegranate Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of halloumi cheese with the sweet and tangy flavor of pomegranate seeds, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 200g)
– 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup of mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi cheese into small cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
3. Add the cubed halloumi cheese to the salad and toss gently.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately after assembly.
Enjoy your delicious Halloumi and Pomegranate Salad!
Halloumi and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your mushroom game with this delightful recipe that combines the creaminess of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavor of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 200g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled halloumi cheese, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the crispy, golden goodness of halloumi cheese in these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic grilled halloumi with honey and thyme to innovative creations like halloumi fries with garlic aioli and halloumi tacos with lime crema, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re a fan of savory or sweet, salads or snacks, these dishes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this Cypriot cheese. Get ready to elevate your meals and impress your friends with these easy-to-make and impressive recipes!
