Grilled Halloumi Greek Salad Perfect for Summer Refresh

Looking for a refreshing dish to enjoy this summer? Let me introduce you to Grilled Halloumi Greek Salad! This vibrant salad combines savory grilled halloumi with fresh veggies, making it a perfect choice for warm days. In this post, I’ll share simple steps and tips to make this delicious salad. Plus, I’ll include some fantastic variations to suit any palate. Get ready to delight your taste buds!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 250g Halloumi cheese, sliced into thick pieces

– 1 medium cucumber, diced into bite-sized pieces

– 2 ripe tomatoes, diced

– 1 small red onion, sliced very thinly

– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

– 100g Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for grilling)

– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

– Juice of 1 fresh lemon

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

The star of this salad is halloumi cheese. It has a firm texture and a mild taste. When grilled, it becomes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The fresh vegetables add crunch and color. You have cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers. Each brings its own flavor to the dish. Kalamata olives add a salty touch that ties it all together.

For the dressing, we use olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano. The oil and vinegar create a smooth mix. The lemon adds brightness, while the oregano gives it a classic Greek flavor.

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh parsley

– Additional olive oil

Garnishes can elevate your dish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors and make it shine. You can sprinkle these on top just before serving for a lovely finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Halloumi

Grilling the cheese

First, you need to preheat your grill to medium heat. This step helps the cheese cook evenly. Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil. This keeps the cheese from sticking and adds flavor. Place the cheese on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and a golden brown color. Once done, take the halloumi off the grill and let it cool for a moment.

Cooling and slicing

After cooling, cut the halloumi into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to mix into the salad later.

Assembling the Salad

Combining fresh ingredients

In a large salad bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, diced bell pepper, and halved Kalamata olives. Use fresh, ripe ingredients for the best taste. Mixing these vibrant colors adds visual appeal and flavor to your salad.

Whisking the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, the juice of 1 lemon, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing adds a tangy kick to the salad. Make sure it is well mixed before adding it to the salad.

Final Touches

Mixing and garnishing the salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently to coat all ingredients without squishing them. Cut the grilled halloumi into pieces and fold it into the salad. Be careful not to break it apart too much. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serve your salad right away for the best taste. You can let it sit for a few minutes to let the flavors blend. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the salad on a large platter and place the halloumi on top. A light drizzle of olive oil enhances both flavor and shine. Enjoy your refreshing summer salad!

Tips & Tricks

Grilling Tips

– Preheat your grill pan to medium heat. This helps the halloumi cook evenly.

– Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil. This keeps them from sticking.

– Grill for 2-3 minutes per side. You want golden-brown color and nice grill marks.

– Avoid moving the cheese too much. Let it sear before flipping for better marks.

Flavor Enhancements

– Add sliced avocado for creaminess. It pairs well with the salty halloumi.

– Toss in some fresh basil or mint for a nice herbal touch. These herbs bring a bright flavor.

– Use cherry tomatoes for extra sweetness. They add a lovely burst to each bite.

– Balance the salad with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It brightens all the flavors.

– Don’t forget to taste your dressing. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for a perfect mix.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can play with the ingredients in this salad. If you can’t find halloumi cheese, try feta or mozzarella. Both give a nice texture and flavor.

For vegetables, consider using:

– Cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes

– Zucchini instead of cucumber

– Arugula for a peppery touch

These swaps keep your salad fresh and fun. You can always mix and match based on what you have.

Dressing Variations

The dressing is key to a great salad. If you want to change it up, try these options:

– Use lemon zest for added zing.

– Swap balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar for a different taste.

– Add some honey for a touch of sweetness.

You can also customize flavors by adding fresh herbs like mint or basil. Each option gives a unique twist to your salad. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Grilled Halloumi Greek Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge right after serving. This helps to keep the flavors intact. Use the salad within 3 days for the best taste.

Reheating Suggestions

Reheating this salad is simple. You can warm the halloumi separately in a pan. Heat it on medium for just a minute on each side. This keeps its texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese chewy. Enjoy your grilled halloumi warm with fresh salad ingredients!

FAQs

What is Halloumi cheese?

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese from Cyprus. It has a unique, salty taste. This cheese comes from goat and sheep milk, sometimes cow milk. Halloumi is known for its high melting point, which allows it to be grilled or fried. When you grill it, it becomes crispy on the outside and soft inside. Halloumi has roots in Mediterranean cuisine. It is popular in salads, sandwiches, and main dishes around the world.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. To keep it fresh, store the salad and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving. This way, the veggies stay crisp. You can grill the halloumi in advance too. Just store it in an airtight container. It will last for a day or two in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the halloumi slightly or enjoy it cold.

Is Grilled Halloumi Greek Salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is great for vegetarians. It has no meat or fish, making it a healthy option. Halloumi cheese adds protein and flavor. The fresh veggies bring vitamins and minerals. This salad is not only tasty but also filling. It serves as a perfect light meal or side dish. Enjoy it during summer or anytime you want a refreshing bite.

This blog post explored how to create a delicious Grilled Halloumi Greek Salad. We covered main ingredients like halloumi cheese and fresh veggies. You learned the steps for grilling and assembling the salad. We also shared tips for grilling, flavor enhancements, and storage.

Remember, this salad is easy to change based on your taste. With simple swaps and dressings, you can make it your own. Enjoy the fresh, unique flavors that halloumi brings. Happy cookin