Why You Should Make Grilled Halloumi Cheese Skewers
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy vegetarian appetizer or side dish for your next barbecue, look no further than these grilled halloumi cheese skewers. Halloumi cheese is a semi-hard, salty cheese that is perfect for grilling because it holds its shape and doesn’t melt. Paired with sweet and colorful bell peppers and red onion, these skewers are bursting with flavor and texture. Plus, they’re a breeze to make and can be ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make grilled halloumi cheese skewers for 4 people:
- 250g halloumi cheese
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 skewers
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the halloumi cheese, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Thread the cheese and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
- Brush the skewers with the marinade.
- Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the cheese is lightly charred and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can also make it vegan by using a vegan cheese alternative.
- Different vegetables: You can use any vegetables you like for these skewers, such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Citrusy: For a brighter flavor, substitute lime juice for the lemon juice in the marinade.
No matter how you customize these grilled halloumi cheese skewers, they’re sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering. Enjoy!
FAQ
What is Halloumi cheese?
Halloumi cheese is a semi-hard, unripened cheese made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk. It has a high melting point, which makes it ideal for grilling or frying.
Can I substitute Halloumi cheese with another type of cheese?
While Halloumi cheese has a unique taste and texture, you can substitute it with another semi-hard cheese such as paneer or queso blanco.
How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are well-oiled and the cheese is brushed with olive oil before grilling. You can also grill the cheese on a sheet of aluminum foil.
How long should I grill the cheese skewers?
Grill the cheese skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown grill marks appear. Be careful not to overcook the cheese as it can become tough and rubbery.
Can I marinate the cheese before grilling?
Yes, you can marinate the cheese before grilling. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs such as oregano or thyme can add extra flavor to the cheese.
What can I serve with grilled Halloumi cheese skewers?
Grilled Halloumi cheese skewers can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. They pair well with a variety of salads, dips, and sauces such as tzatziki or hummus.
Can I make the skewers ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve the skewers immediately after grilling, you can assemble the skewers ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until ready to grill.
How do I store leftover grilled Halloumi cheese skewers?
Leftover grilled Halloumi cheese skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill before serving.
Can I grill the cheese skewers on an indoor grill?
Yes, you can grill the cheese skewers on an indoor grill or a grill pan. Make sure the grill is well-oiled and heated before adding the skewers.
What are some variations of the grilled Halloumi cheese skewers?
You can add vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also sprinkle the cheese with chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
