Grilled Halloumi Skewers: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Your Next BBQ

Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a delightful addition to any summer gathering, bringing a burst of flavor and a touch of Mediterranean charm to your table. As I prepare these skewers, I can’t help but reminisce about the vibrant street markets of Cyprus, where the aroma of grilled halloumi fills the air, enticing locals and tourists alike. This dish not only showcases the unique texture of halloumi cheese, which becomes beautifully crispy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside, but it also offers a convenient and quick option for entertaining guests.

People love Grilled Halloumi Skewers for their versatility; they can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course when paired with fresh vegetables and a zesty dip. The combination of smoky flavors from the grill and the salty richness of the cheese creates an irresistible taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. Join me as we explore this simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:

• 1 block (about 250g) of halloumi cheese
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 zucchini
• 1 red onion
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Cut the Halloumi**: Start by slicing the halloumi cheese into cubes, about 1-inch in size. This size is perfect for skewering and allows the cheese to grill nicely without falling apart. 2. **Chop the Vegetables**: Next, wash and chop the red and yellow bell peppers into similar-sized cubes as the halloumi. For the zucchini, slice it into rounds about ½ inch thick. Finally, peel and cut the red onion into quarters, then separate the layers. 3. **Prepare the Marinade**: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This marinade will add a wonderful flavor to the skewers. 4. **Marinate the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halloumi cubes and chopped vegetables. Pour the marinade over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Assembling the Skewers

5. **Prepare the Skewers**: If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step. 6. **Skewer the Ingredients**: Take a skewer and start threading the marinated halloumi and vegetables onto it. I like to alternate between halloumi, red pepper, zucchini, yellow pepper, and onion for a colorful presentation. Aim for about 3-4 pieces of halloumi and a mix of vegetables on each skewer. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking. 7. **Repeat**: Continue this process until all the halloumi and vegetables are used up. You should have about 4-6 skewers, depending on how much you packed each one.

Cooking Process

8. **Preheat the Grill**: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, place it on the stove over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get nice grill marks on the halloumi and vegetables. 9. **Oil the Grill Grates**: To prevent sticking, brush the grill grates with a little olive oil using a paper towel or a grill brush. 10. **Grill the Skewers**: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and to get those beautiful grill marks. The halloumi should be golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside, while the vegetables should be tender and slightly charred. 11. **Check for Doneness**: After about 10-12 minutes total cooking time, check the skewers. The halloumi should be firm yet slightly soft in the center, and the vegetables should be cooked through but still have a bit of crunch.

Serving the Skewers

12. **Remove from Grill**: Carefully take the skewers off the grill using tongs. Be cautious as they will be hot! 13. **Garnish**: If you like, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the skewers for an extra pop of color and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten up the dish. 14. **Serve**: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. These grilled halloumi skewers are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. They pair wonderfully with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations

15. **Experiment with Vegetables**: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even eggplant can be great additions to the skewers. 16. **Add Spices**:

Conclusion:

In summary, these Grilled Halloumi Skewers are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. The combination of the salty, creamy halloumi cheese with the vibrant vegetables creates a delightful flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these skewers with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or a zesty lemon vinaigrette to enhance the flavors even further. You can also experiment with different vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even zucchini to customize the skewers to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some marinated olives or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with me! Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, I’d love to hear how your Grilled Halloumi Skewers turn out. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media so we can celebrate your culinary success together. Happy grilling! Print