Picture this: the sun is shining, a gentle breeze is wafting through your backyard, and you’re surrounded by the laughter of friends and family. Suddenly, the enticing aroma of grilled halloumi cheese wafts through the air, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation. Grilled halloumi cheese with herbs is not just food; it’s a flavor explosion that brings people together. With its salty, slightly squeaky texture and herby goodness, this dish will make you the star of any gathering.
Now, I remember the first time I served grilled halloumi at a summer barbecue. My friends were skeptical when I mentioned frying cheese—after all, who does that? But after one bite, they were all converts. It became our go-to dish for every outdoor event! Perfect for picnics or even as a light dinner option, this recipe promises to delight both your taste buds and your guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled halloumi cheese with herbs is simple yet impressive; it takes less than 20 minutes to prepare
- The flavor is savory and herbaceous, creating an unforgettable experience
- Its golden crust and soft interior make it irresistible on any plate
- Versatile enough to pair with salads or serve as an appetizer at gatherings
Sharing grilled halloumi always elicits smiles and compliments from my family; it’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Halloumi Cheese: Look for a firm texture; fresh halloumi has the best flavor and grilling qualities.
Fresh Herbs: Choose your favorites like rosemary or thyme for vibrant flavors that complement the cheese beautifully.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of the grilled halloumi.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty kick that balances the creaminess of the cheese.
Black Pepper: A dash of freshly ground pepper brings out the flavors without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by slicing the halloumi into thick pieces about half an inch each. Pat them dry with paper towels; this step helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Marinate the Halloumi: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped herbs, and black pepper. Place the halloumi slices in this zesty marinade for about 10 minutes to soak up those amazing flavors.
Heat Up Your Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot so that when you place the cheese on it sizzles delightfully!
Grill Until Golden Brown: Place marinated halloumi slices on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop beautiful grill marks and turn golden brown.
Serve Hot & Enjoy!: Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm! Pair with fresh veggies or enjoy alone while basking in your culinary glory!
Each step will guide you toward creating a dish that sparkles with flavor and brings joy to any table. Remember to savor every moment as your kitchen fills with delightful aromas!
You Must Know
- Grilled halloumi cheese with herbs is a game-changer; it’s crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying on a cozy night in
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish you’ll crave again and again
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Slice the halloumi into thick pieces for optimal grilling. Grill each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and slightly charred.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary or chili flakes. Adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, quickly pan-fry on medium heat until warmed through, avoiding overheating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly grilled halloumi, ensure the grill is hot enough to create that perfect char without melting away the cheese
- Always slice your cheese thickly to maintain its shape while grilling
- Lastly, marinating it for a short time intensifies flavors significantly
When I first made grilled halloumi cheese with herbs, my friends were blown away! They couldn’t believe something so simple could be so delicious, and now it’s our go-to dish for every gathering.
FAQ
What is grilled halloumi cheese with herbs?
Grilled halloumi cheese with herbs is a deliciously crispy, savory cheese dish flavored with fresh herbs.
Can I use different types of cheese?
While halloumi is best, you can try other grilling cheeses like queso blanco or paneer.
How should I serve grilled halloumi cheese?
Serve grilled halloumi as an appetizer or alongside salads, roasted vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter.
Grilled Halloumi Cheese with Herbs
Grilled halloumi cheese with herbs is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of perfectly grilled cheese with fresh herbs, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple yet impressive recipe takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for gatherings or light dinners. With its golden crust and gooey interior, this dish will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz halloumi cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Slice halloumi into thick pieces (about ½ inch).
- Pat slices dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped herbs, and black pepper. Add halloumi slices to the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill halloumi for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and marked.
- Serve warm, paired with fresh veggies or as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 oz (56g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
