Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad for Summer Bliss
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh and light meals. This Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavor of halloumi cheese with juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s easy to make and perfect for any outdoor gathering or a family lunch.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this salad is a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. Halloumi cheese adds a unique taste and texture, and when grilled, it becomes warm and slightly crispy. The sweetness of the tomatoes and the freshness of the basil complement the cheese perfectly. Plus, this recipe takes only a few minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy summer days.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slabs
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush halloumi slices with a little olive oil and grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and charred. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, balsamic vinegar, and the remaining olive oil. Add honey if you want a touch of sweetness.
- Toss all ingredients gently and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the grilled halloumi on a serving platter.
- Spoon the tomato mixture over the grilled cheese.
- Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with more olive oil or balsamic vinegar if desired.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
You can serve this salad as a light main course or a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. To make it a more complete meal, add quinoa or couscous on the side.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, halloumi cheese is best when freshly grilled, so try to eat it the same day. If you must save it, you can keep the tomato mix and grilled cheese separate and combine them when ready to serve.
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the halloumi for the best char.
- Use colorful tomatoes for a beautiful presentation.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Variation
You can make this salad vegan by replacing the halloumi with grilled zucchini or eggplant. Additionally, you can change the dressing by using lemon juice instead of balsamic vinegar for a brighter flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cheese instead of halloumi?
While halloumi is special due to its grilling qualities, you can use other firm cheeses like feta or goat cheese, but they won’t have the same texture when grilled.
2. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best to grill the halloumi just before serving to enjoy its best texture. You can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten intolerance.
Enjoy the bright flavors of summer with this simple and tasty Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad!
