Are you a cheese lover looking for new ways to enjoy the creamy, salty delight that is Halloumi? Look no further! This Cypriot cheese is a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines, and its unique texture and flavor make it perfect for a wide range of dishes. From savory main courses to sweet desserts, we’ve rounded up 20 crispy Halloumi recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your salads, wraps, or sandwiches, or want to try something new with your brunch or dinner, these recipes have got you covered. With everything from classic pairings like honey and sesame, to international twists like tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone in this delicious collection.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these 20 crispy Halloumi recipes, sharing cooking tips, tricks, and variations to help you get started. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or grill, and get ready to indulge in some seriously cheesy goodness!
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Sesame
Elevate your summer gatherings with this simple yet impressive grilled halloumi dish, infused with the warmth of honey and the crunch of sesame. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 1 tsp of sesame oil
– 1/4 cup of sesame seeds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the halloumi into thick slices (about 1/2 inch).
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey and sesame oil.
4. Brush the honey-sesame mixture evenly onto both sides of the halloumi slices.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each slice.
6. Grill the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and melted.
7. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total.
Halloumi and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing Halloumi and Watermelon Salad combines the salty tang of halloumi cheese with the cool sweetness of watermelon, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi cheese into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon, chopped fresh mint leaves, olive oil, and lime juice. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add the halloumi cheese to the bowl and toss again to distribute evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Fried Halloumi Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this unique combination of crispy fried halloumi cheese, tangy lime crema, and crunchy taco shells. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their snack or dinner routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip each halloumi strip into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
3. Fry the coated halloumi strips in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried halloumi on a warmed tortilla, topping with lime crema, and adding optional toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Halloumi Fries with Garlic Aioli
Transform the humble French fry into a Mediterranean masterpiece by substituting crispy halloumi cheese for traditional potatoes. This indulgent snack is perfect for game days, parties, or simply a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other garnishes
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi cheese into fry shapes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Fry the halloumi until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
4. Mix garlic and lemon juice with mayonnaise for the aioli.
5. Serve the crispy halloumi fries hot with the garlic aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Halloumi and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy toast recipe that combines the best of Greek and Mexican flavors. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably crusty)
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Top each slice with a piece of Halloumi cheese, some mashed avocado, and a sprinkle of chopped mint.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Halloumi Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the salty tang of halloumi cheese with the sweetness of roasted peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 200g halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled halloumi, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the halloumi mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Halloumi and Couscous Stuffed Eggplant
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese, the nutty flavor of couscous, and the smoky sweetness of grilled eggplant. A perfect vegetarian main course or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggplants
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup of cooked couscous
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the eggplant for 5-7 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, mix the cooked couscous with crumbled Halloumi cheese.
5. Stuff each eggplant half with the couscous-Halloumi mixture.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi Burgers with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your burger game with these crispy, cheesy, and spicy Halloumi Burgers! This recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with a kick of heat from spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 Halloumi cheese slices
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Red onion, thinly sliced
– Spicy Mayo (see below)
– Optional toppings: pickles, jalapeños
Spicy Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat.
2. Brush Halloumi slices with olive oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns.
4. Assemble burgers by spreading spicy mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a cooked Halloumi slice, lettuce leaves, tomato slices, red onion, and top bun.
5. Serve immediately and customize with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Baked Halloumi with Herbs and Lemon
This classic Cypriot cheese gets a bright and zesty twist with the addition of fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the halloumi cheese on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese, then sprinkle with chopped rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
7. Remove from the oven and squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Mushroom Skewers
A flavorful and colorful appetizer or snack that combines the salty tang of Halloumi cheese with the earthy sweetness of mushrooms. Perfect for a quick gathering or as a healthy addition to your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), stems removed and caps sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a piece of Halloumi and two mushroom pieces onto each skewer.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until cheese is golden brown and mushrooms are tender.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Halloumi Carbonara
This indulgent pasta dish combines the salty sweetness of halloumi cheese with the rich flavors of carbonara. The result is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into thin strips
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced halloumi and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well combined, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Combine cooked halloumi with the pasta mixture and stir gently.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Spinach Filo Pie
A delicious and savory pie filled with salty halloumi cheese, wilted spinach, and crispy filo pastry. Perfect as a main course or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 200g fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 250g filo pastry sheets
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Layer the filo pastry sheets in a pie dish, brushing each sheet with a little water.
5. Top the filo layers with the crumbled halloumi cheese and wilted spinach mixture.
6. Fold the excess filo over the filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the filo is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Halloumi Breakfast Hash
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, crispy, and savory Halloumi Breakfast Hash. A perfect blend of textures and flavors to start your day off right!
Ingredients:
– 1 block halloumi cheese (about 200g), sliced into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, cook halloumi cubes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Combine the roasted potatoes and cooked halloumi on a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Wraps
Satisfy your cravings with these flavorful wraps, packed with the creamy goodness of halloumi cheese and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing roasted vegetables, halloumi cheese slices, and any desired garnishes on each tortilla.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Halloumi Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Transform your pasta dish with the creamy richness of halloumi cheese and the sweet intensity of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crumbled halloumi cheese and cook, stirring occasionally, until melted and creamy (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and reserved pasta water to create a sauce-like consistency.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the halloumi-sun-dried tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with the creamy sweetness of Halloumi cheese and the tropical freshness of mango salsa. This unique fusion is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of Halloumi cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (see below for recipe)
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Mango Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the Halloumi cheese into thin strips.
3. Cook the cheese for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing cooked Halloumi cheese onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of mango salsa.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Halloumi Quesadillas
Spicy Halloumi Quesadillas Recipe
Add a Mediterranean twist to the classic quesadilla with these spicy and savory treats.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 halloumi cheese slices, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Salt to taste
– Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture on half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm with sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Halloumi and Grilled Peach Salad
Escape the ordinary with this refreshing salad, featuring the creamy charm of halloumi cheese and the sweet warmth of grilled peaches. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/4 cup of mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: balsamic glaze or honey for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the peach wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, slice the halloumi cheese into thin rounds.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, grilled peaches, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Top with the grilled halloumi cheese slices.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Optional: add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey for extra sweetness.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halloumi and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
A harmonious blend of creamy cheese, crunchy chickpeas, and fresh greens, this Buddha bowl is a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block Halloumi cheese
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the Halloumi cheese into thin strips.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas and cook until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, grill the Halloumi cheese for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. Assemble the bowls by dividing the mixed greens among four bowls. Top with grilled Halloumi, chickpeas, red onion, and parsley.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halloumi and Pesto Panini
A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the vibrant taste of pesto. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of crusty bread
– 1/4 cup of pesto
– 1/2 block of halloumi cheese (about 3 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with pesto, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top the pesto with sliced halloumi cheese.
4. Place the second slice of bread on top of the cheese.
5. Brush the outside of the bread with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy, crispy goodness of halloumi cheese with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic grilled halloumi with honey and sesame, to innovative dishes like halloumi fries with garlic aioli and halloumi burgers with spicy mayo, there’s something for every cheese lover. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes showcase the versatility of this Cypriot cheese. Discover new ways to enjoy halloumi in salads, wraps, tacos, pasta dishes, and more!
