Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad for Summer Bliss
The Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is the perfect dish for enjoying the sun-kissed days of summer. It brings together the richness of grilled halloumi cheese with the freshness of juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp red onion. This salad is quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a delightful side for any summer gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with vibrant colors. Grilling the halloumi adds a smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of tomatoes. It’s a refreshing way to stay cool during hot days. Plus, the ingredients are simple and you can easily find them at your local grocery store. Whether you are having a picnic or just a casual dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
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, remaining olive oil, and honey (if using).
- Toss gently and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange grilled halloumi on a serving platter and spoon the tomato mixture over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil and a final drizzle of olive oil or balsamic, if desired. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
This salad is best served fresh. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. You might also like to serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal. Add a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water to round out your meal.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within one day but can last for up to two days. To keep the halloumi from getting too soggy, it’s a good idea to store the grilled cheese and the tomato mixture separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
- Make sure to preheat the grill properly to get nice grill marks on the halloumi.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, any other vinegar can work, but balsamic gives a nice sweetness.
Variation
You can swap out the halloumi for other cheeses like feta or goat cheese if you prefer. Adding nuts like toasted pine nuts or walnuts can also enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cheese instead of halloumi?
Yes, you can use other cheeses, but make sure they can hold up to grilling. Feta and paneer are good alternatives.
2. Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for meatless meals.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While you can prepare the ingredients in advance, it’s best to grill the halloumi just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
