Grilling halloumi cheese is a delightful way to enjoy this Mediterranean delicacy. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick snack, or crafting a meal for family or friends, grilled halloumi offers a unique experience with a golden-brown crispy exterior and a soft, slightly chewy interior. But perfecting the art of grilling halloumi involves more than just throwing it on the grill. To ensure the best results, it’s essential to understand the preparation process, choose the right grill, and follow the correct grilling techniques.

The texture of halloumi is what makes it perfect for grilling. Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese with a rubbery, squeaky texture that allows it to hold up against the high heat of the grill. While most cheeses would melt away under such conditions, halloumi remains intact, developing a beautifully crispy crust while keeping its structure.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to grill halloumi like a pro. From selecting the right grill to serving suggestions and tips, you’ll have all the tools at your disposal to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your guests and elevate your next meal.

How to Prepare Halloumi for Grilling

Before you fire up the grill, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure your halloumi is perfectly prepared. While grilling halloumi is simple, proper preparation is key to achieving the best results.

1. Cutting the Halloumi

Start by slicing the halloumi into even pieces. Aim for about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick slices. This thickness ensures the cheese will hold its shape and cook evenly. If the slices are too thin, they could overcook and become too tough, while thicker slices may take too long to grill.

2. Drying the Halloumi

Halloumi is typically sold in brine, so it’s important to drain the cheese and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevents the cheese from steaming on the grill, which would affect its texture and flavour. Make sure the slices are as dry as possible before placing them on the grill.

3. Soaking to Reduce Saltiness (Optional)

Halloumi’s brined nature makes it quite salty, which can be a bit much for some people. If you find your halloumi to be too salty, you can soak it in water for about 30 minutes to reduce the saltiness. This step is optional, and many people prefer to grill halloumi as-is to enjoy its signature salty taste. If you prefer a milder flavour, however, soaking can help balance the salt.

Choosing the Right Grill and Tools

Choosing the right grill for cooking halloumi is crucial to achieving perfectly grilled slices. Whether you opt for a charcoal grill, a gas grill, or an electric grill, each offers unique advantages.

Best Grill Types for Grilling Halloumi

Essential Grilling Tools

• Grill Brush: A clean grill is essential to prevent the halloumi from sticking. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from previous grilling sessions before you start.
• Tongs: A good pair of tongs will help you flip the halloumi slices with ease, ensuring they don’t break apart while grilling.
• Grill Pan: If you’re grilling indoors, a non-stick grill pan is ideal for achieving those perfect grill marks without worrying about the cheese sticking.

If you’re in the market for a top-notch grill, check out Outsunny 3 Burner Gas Plancha BBQ Grill. This compact and portable gas BBQ grill comes with a non-stick hotplate, perfect for grilling delicate items like halloumi. Its multiple cooking zones allow for temperature control, so you can grill different foods at varying temperatures without the risk of burning your halloumi.

Grilling Instructions: The Basics

Now that you have your halloumi ready and your grill fired up, it’s time to cook. Grilling halloumi is a simple process, but following the right steps ensures the perfect result.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a gas grill, set it to a medium-high setting and allow it to heat up for about 10 minutes. For charcoal grills, wait until the coals are glowing red before you start grilling.

Step 2: Oil the Cheese

Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil. This not only helps prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill but also enhances its flavour. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil directly onto the grill grates to further prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Halloumi

Place the halloumi slices on the grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side. Allow the cheese to grill undisturbed to develop golden-brown grill marks. Don’t move the slices around too much, as this can prevent the cheese from achieving a crisp, golden crust.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Grilled halloumi is best served hot, straight off the grill. Once it cools down, the texture can become rubbery, so make sure to enjoy it as soon as possible.

Tip: If you're grilling on the go, the Outsunny 2 Burner Gas BBQ Grill is compact and perfect for outdoor events, providing the ideal cooking zones for your halloumi. 

Key Grilling Techniques

Grilling halloumi is relatively straightforward, but these tips can help you perfect your grilling technique:

• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure that there’s enough space between each slice of halloumi on the grill. Overcrowding can cause the cheese to steam instead of grill, which will result in uneven cooking.
• Don’t Flip Too Often: Allow each side of the halloumi to cook fully before flipping it. Constantly flipping the cheese can prevent it from developing the desired grill marks and can affect its texture.
• Monitor the Heat: Halloumi cooks quickly, so keep an eye on the grill to avoid overcooking. The cheese should develop a golden-brown colour, and the interior should be soft but not runny.

Flavoring Your Grilled Halloumi

While halloumi is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate its flavour with marinades and seasonings.

Simple Marinades

• Olive Oil & Lemon: A classic Mediterranean marinade made with olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Add oregano or thyme for added flavour.
• Garlic & Rosemary: A fragrant blend of olive oil, crushed garlic, and rosemary that enhances the natural flavour of the halloumi.
  

Creative Pairings

• Chili Flakes: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some chili flakes on your halloumi before grilling.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle a touch of balsamic vinegar or glaze over the grilled cheese for a sweet contrast to the salty flavour.

Tip: For those who prefer a smoky flavor, try the Outsunny Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill. This charcoal grill can reach high temperatures, helping to infuse your halloumi with that delicious smoky aroma.

Serving Ideas

Grilled halloumi is incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways:

• Appetizer: Serve grilled halloumi as part of a Mediterranean platter with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and hummus.
• Main Course: Pair grilled halloumi with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even on its own with some crusty bread for a light meal.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Place grilled halloumi in a pita or wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of olive oil for a satisfying lunch.

How to Incorporate Grilled Halloumi into Meals

Grilled halloumi can easily be added to a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to incorporate halloumi into your meals:

• Salads: Grilled halloumi makes a perfect salad topper. Pair it with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or even fruits like watermelon or figs.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Halloumi is a great addition to vegetarian sandwiches and wraps. Add it with hummus, avocado, or grilled vegetables for a flavourful and filling meal.
• Grain Bowls: Add grilled halloumi to grain bowls with quinoa, couscous, or farro for a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Nutritional Value of Halloumi

Halloumi is not only delicious but also a nutritious option. Here’s a quick breakdown of its key nutritional information:

Nutrient	Per 1 Slice (28g)
Calories	105
Protein	6g
Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Sodium	297mg
Calcium	140mg

Halloumi is a great source of protein and calcium, which makes it a healthy addition to any meal. However, keep in mind that it’s high in fat and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have access to a grill, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy halloumi:

• Pan-Frying: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and fry the halloumi slices for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Place the halloumi slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Tip: If you're cooking indoors, the Outsunny Deluxe Duo Gas BBQ is a versatile option with a gas plancha and grill, allowing you to experiment with both grilling and pan-frying styles. 

Buying the Best Halloumi Cheese

When purchasing halloumi, look for high-quality cheese that is firm and smooth. Aphrodite Halloumi is a popular and trusted brand known for its authenticity. You can find halloumi at most well-stocked supermarkets or specialty stores, both in-store and online.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Grilled halloumi is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, place the halloumi back on the grill or in a skillet over low heat to maintain its texture.

Grilled Halloumi Is a Favourite for Cheese Lovers

Halloumi is no ordinary cheese. Unlike most cheeses that melt and become gooey when heated, halloumi holds its shape, making it ideal for grilling, frying, or baking. Its firm texture and high melting point give it a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other cheeses. Grilled halloumi forms a crispy, golden-brown crust while maintaining its soft, slightly chewy interior.

Halloumi originated from Cyprus and is traditionally made from a mixture of goat’s, sheep’s, or sometimes cow’s milk. The cheese is brined, giving it a slightly salty flavour, which complements its firm texture. When grilled, it absorbs the heat, turning it into a slightly smoky, savoury delight that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Grilling halloumi is incredibly simple, but it brings out a depth of flavour that makes it the star of any meal. It’s a perfect vegetarian alternative to meats at a barbecue or can be served as a tasty snack or salad topping. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or a novice cook, grilling halloumi offers a rewarding culinary experience.

Grilling halloumi is a quick and easy way to enjoy this unique cheese. With the right grill and a few simple techniques, you can create the perfect grilled halloumi every time. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, add it to salads, or enjoy it in sandwiches, grilled halloumi is a versatile and delicious choice. 

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FAQs

1. Can I grill halloumi without oil?

While it is possible to grill halloumi without oil, it’s not recommended as it may stick to the grill and lack flavour. Oiling the halloumi or the grill grates helps achieve a crispy exterior and prevents the cheese from sticking, improving both texture and taste.

2. Can I grill frozen halloumi?

It’s not recommended to grill frozen halloumi directly as it may release excess water, affecting the texture. If you have frozen halloumi, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight, drain it well, and then dry it thoroughly before grilling for the best results.

3. Can I grill halloumi in the oven?

Yes, you can grill halloumi in the oven. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and place the halloumi slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even grilling.

4. Can I grill halloumi on skewers?

Yes, you can grill halloumi on skewers. Cut the cheese into large chunks and thread them onto skewers. Make sure to oil the cheese and the grill to prevent sticking. Grilled halloumi skewers make for a great addition to BBQs and can be paired with vegetables or served as appetizers.