If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh, and irresistibly savory dish, this Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. The combination of smoky, golden halloumi cheese with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a burst of fresh mint creates a salad that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked on its simplicity and bold taste!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make the salad so memorable.
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese: The star of the show, this firm cheese grills beautifully without melting away, giving a smoky, chewy bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: One part to crisp up the halloumi on the grill and another to dress the salad, adding richness and a smooth finish.
- 3 small cucumbers, sliced into coins: Fresh and crunchy, cucumbers bring a cool contrast to the warm cheese.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: These tiny bursts of sweetness brighten the salad and add vibrant color.
- 4 ounces baby greens mix: A tender, leafy base that balances the stronger ingredients.
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint: Mint adds an invigorating herbal note that lifts the dish.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: The acidity cuts through the richness and ties the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spice that rounds out the taste.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Cheese
Start by heating a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheating your grill to medium. While it heats, brush both sides of the halloumi slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This little step ensures the cheese won’t stick and helps develop those perfect sizzling grill lines.
Step 2: Grill the Halloumi
Place the oiled cheese slices onto the grill or grill pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you see beautiful grill marks and the halloumi starts to soften and ooze slightly. This quick grilling process brings out a smoky flavor that’s absolutely addictive.
Step 3: Toss the Vegetables and Greens
While the halloumi cooks, combine the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, baby greens, and chopped mint in a large bowl or on a serving plate. This colorful salad base offers refreshing crunch and aromatic brightness.
Step 4: Whip Up the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Drizzle this simple yet flavorful dressing over the salad to bring everything together perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve Immediately
Once the halloumi is beautifully grilled, nestle the warm cheese slices on top of the dressed salad. Serve right away to enjoy the contrast between the warm, smoky cheese and the fresh, crisp veggies in every bite.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the flavor, try garnishing your salad with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few olives for a salty bite. A few more fresh mint leaves scattered on top add a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the halloumi perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious dressing or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It’s versatile enough to be a side or a star on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salad on a large, shallow platter allowing everyone to see the medley of colors and textures. You can also serve portions in rustic bowls paired with some warm pita bread on the side, making it both casual and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad and grilled halloumi separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the salad crisp and the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Freezing
Freezing grilled halloumi is not recommended because the texture can become rubbery and lose its charm when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to two days.
Reheating
To reheat the grilled halloumi, pop it in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side to bring back some crispness without overcooking. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture dramatically.
FAQs
What makes halloumi ideal for grilling?
Halloumi’s firm texture and high melting point mean it holds its shape on the grill while developing a crispy, golden crust and smoky flavor, making it perfect for grilling.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of small ones?
Absolutely! Just slice them thinly so they blend well with the other ingredients and don’t overpower the salad with too much bulk.
Is the salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe is vegetarian-friendly and packed with plant-based nutrients and protein from the cheese, making it hearty yet light.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Drizzle the dressing just before serving and keep the dry ingredients separate if prepping earlier. Adding the halloumi last also keeps everything fresh and vibrant.
Can I substitute halloumi with another cheese?
You can try paneer or a firm feta, but halloumi’s unique grill-friendly texture and flavor are hard to beat. For the best experience, stick with halloumi if you can find it.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe is such a delight to make and eat. It’s fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stress. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite salad that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Grilled Halloumi Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and flavorful grilled halloumi salad combining smoky, melted cheese with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh baby greens, and aromatic mint, all tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or as a side dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4 inch slabs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables and Greens
- 3 small cucumbers, sliced into coins
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 ounces baby greens mix
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat or prepare an outdoor grill to medium heat to ensure direct, even cooking for the halloumi slices.
- Prepare Cheese: Brush the halloumi slices evenly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance grilling crispness.
- Grill Halloumi: Place the oiled halloumi slices on the hot grill pan or grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until grill marks develop and the cheese starts to melt and soften.
- Assemble Salad Base: In a large bowl or plate, toss together the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, baby greens, and chopped fresh mint to combine fresh, crisp textures and flavors.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, and ground black pepper until well blended to create a bright, balanced dressing.
- Dress Salad: Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Add Halloumi and Serve: Arrange the grilled halloumi slices atop the dressed salad and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and slightly melty for the best flavor contrast.
Notes
- Halloumi cheese is ideal for grilling as it holds its shape and develops a delicious crispy exterior when cooked.
- If you don’t have a grill pan or outdoor grill, a non-stick skillet can be used to achieve similar results.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little smoked paprika or chili flakes on the cheese before grilling.
- This salad can be served as a light main course or a flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.
- Use fresh mint for a refreshing herbal note; substitute with basil or cilantro if preferred.
- Consume immediately after assembly to enjoy the contrast between warm cheese and cool vegetables.
