Grilled Halloumi Salad

Grilled Halloumi Salad is a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines crisp vegetables with savory, golden-brown halloumi cheese. The salad is fresh, herbaceous, and satisfying enough to serve as a main course or a hearty side. With a simple lemon-olive oil vinaigrette and customizable toppings, this salad brings bold taste and texture to the table in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is both light and filling, thanks to the unique texture and rich flavor of grilled halloumi. Unlike other cheeses, halloumi retains its shape when grilled, offering a warm, chewy bite that contrasts beautifully with cool, crisp vegetables. The simple homemade vinaigrette keeps the dish fresh and zesty, while the optional add-ins allow for plenty of customization. Whether you’re serving it as a vegetarian main or a colorful side, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or grape or Roma tomatoes, chopped)

• 3 mini cucumbers or 1 large English cucumber, sliced

• 4 cups salad greens (baby greens, romaine, arugula, or a mix)

• Fresh mint, chopped (parsley or cilantro optional)

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for grilling)

For the vinaigrette:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Sliced red onion or shallots

• Toasted pine nuts

• Bell peppers or snap peas, chopped

• Sliced avocado

• Cooked chickpeas

Directions

1. Grill the Halloumi
   Preheat a grill pan or grill over medium heat.
   Brush halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides.
   Place slices on the hot grill or pan in a single layer.
   Grill for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden with grill marks and slightly softened. Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Salad Base
   In a large bowl or on a serving platter, combine the salad greens, sliced cucumbers, halved tomatoes, and chopped fresh mint.

3. Make the Vinaigrette
   In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad
   Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad mixture.
   Gently toss everything to coat.
   Top the salad with warm grilled halloumi slices.

5. Serve Immediately
   Serve fresh as a main course or a side dish. Garnish with any additional toppings if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2–3 as a main, 4–6 as a side

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace halloumi with grilled tofu or marinated tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

• Grain Boost: Add quinoa or farro to make the salad more filling.

• Sweet Twist: Add sliced figs or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast to the salty cheese.

• Creamy Texture: Include slices of avocado or a spoonful of hummus on the side.

• Spicy Version: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or drizzle with chili oil for a bit of heat.

Storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, especially when the halloumi is still warm and slightly crisp. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the grilled halloumi separate if possible, and reheat briefly in a skillet or grill pan before serving. Do not microwave the cheese, as it may become rubbery.

FAQs

What is halloumi cheese?

Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese traditionally made from goat or sheep’s milk. It has a high melting point, making it ideal for grilling or frying.

Can I eat halloumi raw?

Yes, halloumi can be eaten raw, though it has a firm, squeaky texture. Grilling enhances its flavor and texture significantly.

Where can I buy halloumi?

Halloumi is available at most large grocery stores, specialty cheese shops, or Mediterranean markets.

Can I use a regular skillet instead of a grill pan?

Yes, a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan also works well to sear the halloumi.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prep this salad in advance?

You can prep the vegetables and vinaigrette in advance, but grill the halloumi just before serving for best texture.

Is halloumi vegetarian?

Most commercial halloumi is vegetarian, but always check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain animal-derived rennet.

What does grilled halloumi taste like?

It has a salty, savory flavor with a chewy texture and a slightly crisp exterior when grilled.

Can I add a dressing besides vinaigrette?

Yes, try a tahini-lemon dressing or a yogurt-based sauce for a creamy alternative.

How can I make the salad more filling?

Add a source of carbs or protein like grains, legumes, or nuts to make it a complete meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Halloumi Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that blends the bold, salty richness of grilled cheese with the lightness of fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for warm-weather meals or any time you crave something light yet satisfying. With its Mediterranean roots and modern flair, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

Grilled Halloumi Salad

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings
• Category: Salad, Main Course, Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Grilled Halloumi Salad is a fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring salty grilled halloumi cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and crisp greens. Tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette with fresh herbs, it’s perfect as a hearty side or a light main course.

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Ingredients

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing cheese)

• 4 cups salad greens (baby greens, arugula, or mixed lettuce)

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 mini cucumbers or 1 English cucumber, sliced

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for vinaigrette)

• 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped

• Optional: sliced red onion or shallots, toasted pine nuts, chopped bell peppers, or snap peas

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Instructions

1. Preheat a grill pan or grill over medium heat.

2. Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with 1 tbsp olive oil.

3. Grill halloumi in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks form and cheese is soft and golden.

4. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and chopped mint.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

7. Top the salad with grilled halloumi slices and serve immediately.

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Notes

• Choose quality halloumi for the best texture and flavor—it should be firm and salty.

• Grill tip: Be generous with olive oil to prevent sticking. A grill pan or non-stick skillet works well.

• Add-ins: Avocado, chickpeas, or quinoa can make it a more filling meal.

• Fresh herbs tip: Mint adds a bright flavor, but parsley or cilantro work well too.

• Serving suggestion: Enjoy warm as a main course or chilled as a side dish.

• Storage: Best served fresh, but you can prep the veggies and dressing in advance and add grilled halloumi just before serving.