How to Make the Perfect Lebanese Grilled Halloumi
Lebanese · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
Lebanese grilled halloumi features thick slices of the iconic semi-hard cheese seared on a hot grill until beautifully charred with a golden crust and a warm squeaky interior. It is served with a bright herb and lemon drizzle that perfectly cuts through the rich saltiness of the cheese.
Why this recipe works
This Lebanese Grilled Halloumi recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 18g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 500 grams halloumi cheese sliced 1cm thick
- 3 tablespoons fresh mint finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon honey
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the halloumi
Remove the halloumi from its brine and pat it completely dry with paper towels. This step is essential because moisture on the surface of the cheese will cause it to steam rather than sear, preventing the formation of a golden crust. Slice it into pieces approximately 1 centimeter thick.
Step 2: Make the herb dressing
In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh mint, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried chili flakes, and honey. Whisk together until the honey is fully incorporated and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust lemon juice or chili to your preference. Set aside.
Step 3: Grill the halloumi
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to high heat. Do not add any oil to the pan as the halloumi contains enough fat to cook without sticking. Place the halloumi slices on the hot grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side without moving them, until deep golden grill marks form and the surface is caramelized.
Step 4: Dress and serve
Transfer the grilled halloumi immediately to a warm serving plate and spoon the herb and lemon dressing generously over the top. Serve within 2 minutes of grilling as halloumi firms up quickly as it cools and loses its appealing soft interior. Pairs beautifully with warm pita, sliced watermelon, or a simple salad.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- halloumi cheese → firm paneer brushed with a little salt as a widely available alternative
- honey → pomegranate molasses for a tangier and more authentically Lebanese flavoring
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not drying the halloumi before grilling, which causes it to steam and stick to the grill instead of forming a crust
- Allowing the grilled halloumi to sit too long before serving, as it hardens rapidly and loses its delicious soft texture
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 18g protein, 5g carbs, 22g fat, 1g fiber.
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