Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad for Summer Bliss
Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is the perfect dish for summer. It is light, fresh, and full of flavor. The combination of grilled halloumi cheese and juicy cherry tomatoes makes this salad both satisfying and delicious. Whether you need a quick lunch or a side dish for a barbecue, this salad is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it is quick and easy to make, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. Second, it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Third, it is healthy and packed with flavors that are perfect for warm weather. Finally, it is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of diets.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Ingredients:
- 7 oz (200g) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1⁄2-inch slabs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brush halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden with grill marks. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and parsley together.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until emulsified.
- Add the grilled halloumi to the tomato mixture.
- Drizzle with dressing and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately as a light summer lunch or a vibrant side dish.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Serve this salad as a main dish for a light lunch or as a refreshing side to grilled meats or fish. You can also pair it with crusty bread for a more filling meal. The delightful flavors will make it a hit at any gathering.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can still eat it cold the next day. Just keep in mind that the cheese may lose some of its texture when stored.
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
- Make sure to preheat the grill pan well. This helps the halloumi get those nice grill marks.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste by adding more honey or vinegar, depending on how sweet or tangy you like it.
- For extra crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds to the salad.
Variation
You can add more vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. If you want a bit of spice, try adding sliced jalapeños or red chili flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cheese instead of halloumi?
Yes, you can try using other grilling cheeses, but halloumi holds up best on the grill.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare it the same day for the freshest taste, but you can chop ingredients ahead and assemble them just before serving.
3. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
No, this salad contains halloumi cheese, which is made from milk. However, you can replace the cheese with a plant-based substitute if needed.
