Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad for Summer Bliss
Introduction
Summer is the perfect time for fresh, light meals that are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. One delightful dish that embodies the essence of summer is the Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad. With its combination of warm, savory halloumi cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this salad makes for a wonderful addition to any sunny day.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only quick and simple to make, but it also offers a variety of textures and tastes that will excite your palate. The grilled halloumi adds a satisfying chewiness, while the sweet cherry tomatoes provide brightness. Fresh basil and balsamic glaze bring everything together perfectly. If you’re looking for a refreshing dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light dinner, this recipe is a fantastic choice!
How to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Making this Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. Here’s how to whip it up in no time!
Ingredients:
- 7 oz (200g) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional Add-ins:
- Arugula or mixed greens
- Sliced avocado
- Toasted pine nuts
Directions:
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the halloumi slices lightly with olive oil.
- Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden grill marks appear.
- In a serving bowl or platter, arrange the grilled halloumi with the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
- Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze and season with black pepper.
- Add any optional greens or toppings you like for extra texture and color.
- Serve immediately while the halloumi is warm.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
Serve your Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad as a light lunch or side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a filling vegetarian meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or crackers to soak up the delicious juices.
How to Store Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about one day. If you have any grilled halloumi leftover, it’s best to store it separately from the tomatoes and greens to maintain freshness.
Tips to Make Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad
- Make sure not to over-grill the halloumi; it can become rubbery.
- Feel free to add your favorite toppings to customize the salad.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with other herbs like mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Variation
You can add grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant to this salad for added flavor and nutrition. Another variation is to substitute the balsamic glaze with lemon juice for a zesty twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cheese instead of halloumi?
While halloumi is ideal for grilling, you can try other firm cheeses like feta or a grilling cheese that won’t melt easily.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can make a simple dressing using balsamic vinegar mixed with a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free as long as the optional add-ins and dressings used are also gluten-free.
Enjoy your refreshing Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Salad, perfect for those warm summer days!
