Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad for Summer Bliss
Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer. It’s fresh, quick to prepare, and bursting with flavor. The combination of warm, grilled halloumi, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a salad that feels both light and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, a barbecue, or just a sunny day, this salad will bring joy to your table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. Halloumi cheese has a unique texture that holds up well to grilling and adds a savory richness to the salad. Second, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy summer days. Finally, the bright flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze make this salad a crowd-pleaser that can complement any meal.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Making Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is easy and quick. Just follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 7 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: arugula or mixed greens for serving
Directions:
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Brush halloumi slices lightly with olive oil.
- Grill halloumi for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and grill-marked.
- Remove halloumi and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Arrange grilled halloumi on a serving platter or on a bed of greens.
- Spoon the tomato mixture over the top.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Serve the salad immediately after preparing it for the best taste. You can place it on a nice plate and add some fresh arugula or mixed greens underneath for a colorful presentation. This dish works well as a light lunch, a side at a barbecue, or even as a starter for a summer dinner.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
To store any leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, try to keep the grilled halloumi separate from the salad mix to prevent it from getting soggy.
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
- Make sure to slice the halloumi thick enough so it doesn’t fall apart on the grill.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you want a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
Variation
You can customize this salad in many ways. For example, adding grilled peaches or even some avocado can enhance the flavors while providing different textures. If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can substitute the balsamic glaze with a yogurt-based dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use feta or goat cheese if you prefer, though they may have different textures when grilled.
2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
- Yes, you can skip the halloumi and use grilled tofu or tempeh as a substitute.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- It’s best to prepare it close to serving time. However, you can prepare the vegetable mix in advance and grill the halloumi just before serving.
