Every now and then you come across a truly special food that captures your heart and imagination. For some of us, grilled halloumi cheese is one of those treats that has a special taste.
Halloumi is a hard cheese produced on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Traditionally it was made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk, but today it can also be made from cow milk.
When cooled, its unique texture can be described as rubbery. In fact, in families who are familiar with hallumi, it is nicknamed 'squeaky cheese' because it makes a squeak sound when you chew it.
However, just like a great outfit that can be easily styled from everyday wear to party wear if you pay attention to the small details, halloumi is transformed into a chewy, salty, and crunchy dish when pan-fried in olive oil or grilled. Because it has a high melting point, it easily hardens on the outside and becomes deliciously soft on the inside.
Halloumi originated in Cyprus during the medieval Byzantine period (AD 395-1191), but can now be found throughout the Middle East and is exported to many places around the world.
While chilly winds blow in many parts of the world, halloumi packs a powerful protein punch and when combined with some green veggies, like in this easy salad recipe, it makes for a healthy yet satisfying meal. Great for both vegetarians and omnivores.
Halloumi is a delicious cheese that makes a great topping for any salad.
- halloumi cheese (Sliced into 1/2 inch thick slices)
- olive oil (for brushing and drizzling)
- Lettuce and salad greens
- vegetable (Tomato, carrot, cucumber as desired.)
- lemon (for pressing)
- warm pita bread
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1. Remove halloumi from package and cut into thick slices, about 1/2 inch thick.
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2. Prepare a plate or bowl with salad greens and mixed vegetables to spread the cheese.
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3. Heat a grill pan or indoor/outdoor grill over medium heat.
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4. Lightly brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil.
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5. Place the cheese slices on a hot grill pan or grill and cook on the first side until the cheese begins to soften and the outside forms a crispy crust, about 2 minutes. Then flip the cheese over and grill the other side. Don't overcook it. Just bake it until it's crispy on the outside.
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6. Immediately place the grilled halloumi on the salad bed, squeeze 1/2 fresh lemon over the grilled cheese and salad, and drizzle with olive oil.
Enjoy a healthy and hearty meal with warm pita bread.
Once you've tried grilled halloumi cheese, you'll want to try it in as many different ways as possible. How about adding it to skewers?
Or how about making a delicious halloumi burger? Your recipes are limited only by your imagination. How about fried halloumi?
You can also make halloumi fries!
Most large grocery stores carry halloumi. Otherwise, you can always order online or check out your local Middle Eastern or Mediterranean store.
Quick Facts: Cypriot halloumi cheese is a special ingredient in this wonderful light yet rich Mediterranean dish.
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