These Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers are perfect for your next cookout! With tasty chunks of halloumi cheese, a splash of lemon, and fragrant thyme, they’re a hit with everyone.
Grilling halloumi makes it golden and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside. I love serving these with a fresh salad—it adds a nice crunch! Plus, they cook quickly, so you won’t be waiting long to chow down!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halloumi: This cheese is key for its unique texture and ability to grill without melting. If you can’t find halloumi, try using feta or queso blanco, though they may not hold their shape as well.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you don’t have a fresh lemon, bottled lemon juice can work, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a lovely aroma. You can use dried thyme if needed; however, reduce the amount as dried herbs are more potent. I often prefer using an Italian herb blend if thyme isn’t available.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, avocado oil or any neutral oil can also do the trick.
How Do I Make Sure My Halloumi Doesn’t Stick to the Grill?
Ensuring your halloumi skewers don’t stick to the grill starts with proper marination and grill preparation. Follow these tips to prevent sticking:
- Choose a well-seasoned grill or use a grill pan.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high before cooking the skewers; a hot grill helps seal the cheese quickly.
- Use olive oil in your marinade to create a non-stick surface.
- Make sure to flip the skewers gently and avoid pressing them down too hard on the grill to maintain the cheese structure.
Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers With Lemon & Thyme
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 250g halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Optional: cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for skewering with the halloumi
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: 15 minutes for marinating, along with 10 minutes for grilling. Easy and quick, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture will soak into the halloumi and add tons of flavor!
2. Marinate the Halloumi:
Add the halloumi cubes to the marinade and gently toss them until they are all coated well. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the cheese to absorb the citrusy goodness!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the halloumi is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that your skewers will cook evenly and get a nice crispy texture!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread the marinated halloumi cubes onto the skewers. If you’re using them, feel free to alternate with cherry tomatoes or bell pepper pieces to add some color and sweetness.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want the halloumi to be golden brown and a little crispy on the outside.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat. If you like, drizzle a little extra lemon juice over them for an added zing before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skewers hot as an appetizer or alongside your favorite salad or grilled vegetables. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your bright and flavorful grilled halloumi skewers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables With the Halloumi?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes as the halloumi cubes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Halloumi Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, or in a microwave, though they are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a stir before adding the halloumi to ensure everything is well combined.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Halloumi?
Grilling halloumi on medium-high heat is ideal to get that nice crispy exterior. Make sure your grill is well-preheated and oiled (if necessary) to prevent sticking. Cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side will give you perfectly grilled halloumi!
