Perfect Pan-Seared Halloumi Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 block (225g) of Halloumi cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 handful of fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 pomegranate (seeds only)

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the Halloumi cheese into thick slices.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the Halloumi slices to the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. While the Halloumi is cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together the lemon zest, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, dried oregano, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the chopped mint leaves.
  5. Once the Halloumi is cooked, remove from the pan and drizzle the dressing over the cheese while it's still warm.
  6. Top with the remaining chopped mint leaves and the pomegranate seeds right before serving. Enjoy this dish as a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Tools for making

  • Frying pan - A non-stick frying pan is recommended for cooking the Halloumi.
  • Knife - Required for cutting the Halloumi cheese into slices.
  • Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for cutting the cheese.
  • Grater or zester - To zest the lemon for the dressing.
  • Bowl - For mixing the dressing ingredients.
  • Spatula - To flip and remove the Halloumi slices from the pan.

Recipe variations

  • Grill the Halloumi cheese instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
  • Marinate the Halloumi in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Serve the Halloumi on a bed of fresh greens or alongside a salad for a lighter meal.
  • Wrap the Halloumi in thin slices of prosciutto or bacon before cooking for a savory twist.
  • Top the cooked Halloumi with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy contrast.
  • Add some roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the dish for added color and texture.
  • Replace the pomegranate seeds with diced tomatoes or cucumber for a fresh twist.

Recipe overview

This is a simple yet delicious Halloumi recipe that's perfect for a quick appetizer or side dish. Halloumi, a versatile Cypriot cheese, is known for its ability to retain shape when cooked, making it perfect for grilling or frying. In this recipe, we'll be pan-searing the cheese until golden and crispy and then drizzling it with a tangy lemon-oregano dressing. A sprinkle of fresh mint and pomegranate seeds adds a refreshing finish. Expect a delightful combination of textures and flavors – the creaminess of the cheese, the tartness from the lemon, the warmth of the oregano, and the burst of sweetness from the pomegranate seeds. This dish is sure to impress at your next meal or gathering!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Halloumi? You can try using a different type of semi-hard cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and taste may be different from the traditional Halloumi. It's best to use Halloumi for the authentic flavor and unique properties of this recipe.
  2. Can I grill the Halloumi instead of pan-frying it? Yes, grilling the Halloumi is a great alternative. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the cheese slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely charred and golden.
  3. What can I serve with Halloumi? Halloumi is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. You can serve it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, pita bread, or even incorporate it into sandwiches or wraps.
  4. Can I prepare the dressing in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance. Simply mix all the dressing ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use. Give it a good stir before drizzling it over the warm Halloumi.
  5. Can I substitute dried mint for fresh mint? While fresh mint provides a vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried mint in a pinch. However, keep in mind that the taste may be slightly different, so adjust the quantity accordingly (use about 1/3 of the amount of dried mint compared to fresh).

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Frying pan - A non-stick frying pan is ideal for cooking the Halloumi cheese.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is needed to cut the Halloumi into slices.
  • Zester or grater - Used to zest the lemon to add flavor to the dressing.
  • Juicer - To extract the juice from the lemon for the dressing.
  • Chopping board - Used to chop the garlic, mint leaves, and pomegranate.
  • Spatula - Helps in flipping and removing the Halloumi from the pan.
  • Bowl - Needed to mix the dressing ingredients together.

Origin stories

Halloumi cheese has a long history in the Mediterranean, more specifically, in Cyprus. It dates back to the Byzantine period (AD 395 – 1191), and it's one of the region's oldest cheeses. What sets Halloumi apart is its high melting point, which allows it to be grilled or fried without losing its shape. This unique feature is attributed to the traditional cheese-making process where the cheese is heated before being shaped and brined. Interestingly, Halloumi was traditionally made during the cooler months and was consumed on hot summer days alongside watermelon for a refreshing and balanced meal. This combination is still popular in Cyprus today, serving as a testament to the island's culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.