These grilled halloumi and vegetable skewers combine smoky, salty cheese with fresh Mediterranean flavors for a colorful, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Perfect for summer parties or casual get-togethers, these skewers feature halloumi cheese, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onion.
They grill quickly and are best served warm with a drizzle of lemon and fresh herbs for a delicious appetizer or light snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Halloumi's high melting point allows it to retain texture and develop a nice char on the grill without melting away.
- Combining a variety of colorful vegetables adds both flavor and visual appeal, providing a balanced bite each time.
- Marinating vegetables in olive oil, lemon, and herbs infuses Mediterranean flavors throughout the skewers.
- Grilling on skewers makes these easy to serve and perfect for entertaining.
- No special equipment needed beyond a grill or grill pan, making this recipe accessible for any home cook.
Grilled Mediterranean Halloumi and Vegetable Skewers
Enjoy a vibrant appetizer of grilled halloumi cheese paired with colorful Mediterranean vegetables on skewers, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 10 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- 12 skewers
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 pint (300 g) cherry tomatoes
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the vegetables Place zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl. Pour marinade over vegetables and toss gently to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes while preparing halloumi and skewers.
- Assemble the skewers Thread one piece of halloumi and a variety of vegetables alternating onto each skewer until full.
- Preheat the grill Heat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush grate lightly with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and halloumi is golden brown.
- Serve warm Remove from grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For best results, use halloumi labeled as suitable for grilling or frying, as it has a firm texture and won't melt easily.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust vegetable choices based on preference; eggplant or mushrooms also work well in this recipe.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki or a simple squeeze of extra lemon for additional brightness.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store leftover grilled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet or under a broiler to maintain the texture of the halloumi; avoid microwaving which may make the cheese rubbery.
Do not freeze grilled halloumi skewers as the texture of the cheese may degrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of halloumi?
Halloumi is ideal for grilling because it holds its shape under heat. Other cheeses like paneer or a firm feta may work but the texture and melting properties will differ.
How do I prevent the halloumi from sticking to the grill?
Brushing the grill with oil and using a hot grill will help prevent sticking. Make sure the grill is preheated and the cheese is dry before grilling.
Are these skewers suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish, but it is not vegan due to the cheese.
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