Grilled Halloumi Salad: A Simple & Delicious Mediterranean Delight

This grilled halloumi salad is the perfect light and refreshing meal, packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. It’s a delightful combination of salty, squeaky halloumi cheese, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or a summer barbecue. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and customizable to your liking. Get ready to experience a burst of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite!

## Why You’ll Love This Halloumi Salad

* **Quick & Easy:** From prep to plate, this salad comes together in under 30 minutes.
* **Flavorful:** The combination of salty halloumi, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing is simply irresistible.
* **Healthy:** Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, this salad is a nutritious and satisfying meal.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and dressings.
* **Perfect for any occasion:** Whether it’s a light lunch, a casual dinner, or a summer gathering, this salad is always a hit.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant halloumi salad:

* **Halloumi Cheese:** The star of the show! Look for halloumi that is firm and white. Typically one 8-ounce package is sufficient for 2-4 servings.
* **Mixed Greens:** A base of fresh mixed greens provides a healthy and refreshing foundation. You can use any type of lettuce you prefer, such as romaine, spinach, arugula, or a combination.
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** These add sweetness and juiciness to the salad. Halve or quarter them depending on their size.
* **Cucumber:** Provides a refreshing crunch. English cucumbers are ideal as their skin is thin and doesn’t require peeling.
* **Red Onion:** Adds a sharp, slightly pungent flavor. Thinly slice or dice it for the best texture.
* **Bell Pepper (Optional):** Adds color and sweetness. Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers work well.
* **Olives (Optional):** Kalamata or green olives add a salty and briny flavor.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh mint, parsley, or dill add a bright and aromatic touch. Chopped finely.
* **Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** Adds acidity and brightness to the dressing.
* **Garlic:** A clove of minced garlic adds a savory note to the dressing.
* **Dried Oregano:** Provides a classic Mediterranean flavor.
* **Salt & Pepper:** To taste.

## Detailed Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your perfect grilled halloumi salad:

**Step 1: Prepare the Halloumi**

1. **Slice the Halloumi:** Remove the halloumi from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help it brown properly in the pan or on the grill. Slice the halloumi into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Thicker slices will take longer to cook, while thinner slices may fall apart easily.
2. **Prepare for Grilling (Optional):** Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil. This will prevent them from sticking to the grill or pan.

**Step 2: Grill the Halloumi**

* **Grill Method:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the halloumi slices directly on the grill grates and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly softened. Watch carefully, as halloumi can burn quickly.
* **Pan-Fry Method:** Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly softened.

**Step 3: Prepare the Salad Ingredients**

1. **Wash and Chop Vegetables:** Thoroughly wash all the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. Dice the cucumber and bell pepper (if using) into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice or dice the red onion.
2. **Prepare the Herbs:** Finely chop the fresh mint, parsley, or dill.

**Step 4: Make the Dressing**

1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more lemon juice for extra tang, or more olive oil for a richer flavor.

**Step 5: Assemble the Salad**

1. **Arrange the Greens:** Place the mixed greens in a large bowl or on individual plates.
2. **Add the Vegetables:** Arrange the chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper (if using) over the greens.
3. **Add the Olives (Optional):** Sprinkle the olives over the salad.
4. **Top with Halloumi:** Place the grilled halloumi slices on top of the salad.
5. **Drizzle with Dressing:** Drizzle the dressing over the salad, or serve it on the side.
6. **Garnish with Herbs:** Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the salad.

**Step 6: Serve Immediately**

Serve the grilled halloumi salad immediately while the halloumi is still warm and the vegetables are fresh and crisp. Enjoy!

## Tips for the Perfect Halloumi Salad

* **Don’t Overcook the Halloumi:** Halloumi should be golden brown and slightly softened, but not melted or rubbery. Watch it carefully while grilling or pan-frying.
* **Pat the Halloumi Dry:** Patting the halloumi dry before cooking helps it brown properly and prevents it from sticking to the grill or pan.
* **Use High-Quality Olive Oil:** Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor to the dressing. Look for a good quality olive oil that you enjoy the taste of.
* **Adjust the Dressing to Your Liking:** Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant.
* **Add Nuts or Seeds:** Toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
* **Make it a Meal:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
* **Use a Grill Pan Indoors:** If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop.
* **Consider adding a Grain:** Quinoa, couscous, or farro can be a nice addition to this salad.

## Variations to Try

Here are a few variations to spice up your halloumi salad:

* **Strawberry Halloumi Salad:** Add sliced strawberries and balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy twist.
* **Watermelon Halloumi Salad:** Combine watermelon cubes, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad.
* **Peach Halloumi Salad:** Grill peach slices and add them to the salad with crumbled feta cheese and a honey-mustard dressing.
* **Mediterranean Halloumi Salad:** Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a truly Mediterranean experience.
* **Spicy Halloumi Salad:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or use a spicy chili oil for a kick.
* **Halloumi and Pomegranate Salad:** Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and juicy texture.

## Serving Suggestions

This grilled halloumi salad is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of other dishes:

* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** Serve it as a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
* **Pita Bread or Hummus:** Serve it with warm pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
* **Soup:** Pair it with a light soup, such as tomato soup or lentil soup.
* **Sandwiches:** Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
* **As a Starter:** Serve it as a refreshing starter at a dinner party.

## Make-Ahead Tips

* **Prepare the Vegetables:** You can wash and chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
* **Make the Dressing:** The dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Whisk it well before using.
* **Grill the Halloumi:** Halloumi is best served immediately after grilling, but you can grill it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

* **Calories:** Approximately 400-500 per serving
* **Protein:** 20-25 grams
* **Fat:** 30-40 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 15-20 grams

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Can I use a different type of cheese?** While halloumi is the star of this salad, you could substitute it with feta cheese or grilled paneer, but the flavor and texture will be different.
* **Can I make this salad vegan?** Halloumi is a dairy product, so it’s not vegan. However, you can use a plant-based halloumi alternative or substitute it with grilled tofu or tempeh.
* **How long does halloumi salad last?** It is best to consume the salad immediately after preparation. However, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The halloumi may become slightly rubbery over time.
* **Can I freeze halloumi?** It’s not recommended to freeze halloumi, as it can change its texture and become crumbly.
* **Where can I find halloumi cheese?** Halloumi cheese is typically found in the specialty cheese section of most grocery stores. You can also find it at Mediterranean or Middle Eastern markets.

## Final Thoughts

This grilled halloumi salad is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its customizable ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a salad that’s tailored to your taste. So, fire up the grill (or grab your skillet) and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean!

Enjoy your delicious homemade halloumi salad!