Air fryer recipes are a revelation for anyone looking for delicious meals with less mess and quicker cooking times. I’ve found that this Air Fryer Honey & Mustard Halloumi in Zucchini Blankets combines the rich, savory flavors of halloumi cheese with the freshness of zucchini and a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a show-stopping dish perfect for any gathering or just a cozy dinner at home. Imagine the crispy zucchini enveloping the soft halloumi, all drizzled with a delightful honey-mustard sauce! It’s a dish you don’t want to miss out on.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to whip up this Air Fryer Honey & Mustard Halloumi. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. Air fryers are notorious for cutting down cooking times while still delivering on flavor and texture, making this dish particularly appealing for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet efficient. It also ticks off the boxes for being budget-friendly, especially considering halloumi is both versatile and sometimes on sale. Plus, it’s a kid-approved favorite—what’s not to love about crispy, cheesy goodness wrapped in tender veggies?

"This recipe brought my family together at dinner. The halloumi was so tasty, and the kids couldn’t stop eating the zucchini wraps!" – Sarah J.

Preparing Air Fryer Honey & Mustard Halloumi in Zucchini Blankets

Making this delightful dish is remarkably simple. The process involves just a few key steps: slicing your zucchini, wrapping it around the halloumi, and air frying to perfection. The result? A beautifully aromatic, crispy dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate! Ready to dive into the details? Let’s get started!

Gather These Items

To make this recipe shine, here’s what you’ll need:

1 block halloumi cheese, cut into sticks (225 g / 8 oz)
2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin ribbons (300 g)
2 tablespoons honey (40 g / 30 ml)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 g / 15 ml)
1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (1 g)
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (2 g)

You can swap the halloumi with other cheese like feta if you’re feeling adventurous, keeping in mind that it will change the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F / 190°C.
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the zucchini into long, thin ribbons.
Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix the honey and Dijon mustard together until you have a smooth consistency.
Take each halloumi stick and wrap it with 1–2 zucchini ribbons, overlapping slightly to keep them secure.
Lightly brush the zucchini-wrapped halloumi with olive oil, then apply the honey–mustard mixture generously.
Sprinkle with black pepper and chili flakes if you’re using them.
Arrange the wrapped halloumi in the air fryer basket in a single layer, seam-side down.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning them halfway through until the zucchini is crispy and the halloumi becomes golden and soft.
Remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve warm.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To elevate your tasting experience, consider serving this dish alongside a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even a light dip like tzatziki to balance the richness of the halloumi. Presentation counts—serve them on a beautiful platter garnished with more fresh herbs for that lovely pop of color!

How to Store & Freeze

If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt it!), let the dish cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that wonderful crispy texture. Freezing isn’t recommended, as it can affect the texture of both the zucchini and halloumi.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To make this dish perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:

Ensure that your zucchini ribbons are as dry as possible before wrapping; moisture can lead to soggy results.
Experiment with different types of mustard for a unique kick—whole grain mustard can add a lovely crunch and flavor depth.
Rotate your air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

Creative Twists

Feel free to think outside the box! You might try adding herbs like basil or oregano for a fragrant touch. For those who crave heat, consider using spicy honey or adding jalapeño slices for an extra layer of flavor.

Air Fryer Honey & Mustard Halloumi in Zucchini Blankets

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time for Air Fryer Honey & Mustard Halloumi is around 20-25 minutes, making it a great quick meal option.

Can I substitute halloumi for another cheese?

Absolutely! If you don’t have halloumi, feta or mozzarella can work as alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavors will change!

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best results, warm the leftover halloumi in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes. This will help regain that crispy texture.

With this straightforward guide, you’re set to enjoy a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress. Don’t just take my word for it—give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves!