Description
Grilled Halloumi Tacos
Grilled Halloumi Tacos are the perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors and Mexican flair! Halloumi, known for its firm, squeaky texture and mild salty taste, is the star of these tacos. Originating from Cyprus, this cheese can be grilled to perfection without melting away. Paired with a zesty corn salad and a creamy cilantro sauce, these tacos are sure to elevate any summer gathering.
2 cups grilled corn
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, minced
1 jalapeño, minced
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
7 oz halloumi cheese
8 tortillas
Creamy Cilantro Sauce:
1/2 cup cilantro
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup oil
2 tbsp mayo
1 garlic clove
Salt & pepper
Directions:
1. Assemble corn salad, blend cilantro sauce, grill halloumi, and assemble tacos.
Prep Time: 25 min
Kcal: 563 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Make the Corn Salad: In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, diced avocado, minced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Add the lime juice, cumin, and paprika. Gently toss to combine and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Cilantro Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, Greek yogurt, oil, mayo, garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Grill the Halloumi: Slice the halloumi block into 1/4-inch thick slices. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. No oil is needed. Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until deep golden-brown grill marks appear.
4. Warm Tortillas: Briefly heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or over a gas flame until warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few slices of grilled halloumi on each warm tortilla. Top generously with the corn salad and drizzle with the creamy cilantro sauce. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
These vibrant tacos are a complete meal on their own. For a fuller spread, serve with a side of black beans or cilantro-lime rice. A light, crisp white wine or a cold Mexican lager pairs beautifully. For presentation, offer extra lime wedges and sliced jalapeños on the side for guests to customize their tacos.
How-to Summary
To make Grilled Halloumi Tacos: 1) Mix grilled corn, avocado, onion, jalapeño, and spices for the salad. 2) Blend cilantro, yogurt, oil, mayo, and garlic for the sauce. 3) Grill halloumi slices until golden. 4) Warm tortillas. 5) Assemble tacos with halloumi, corn salad, and a drizzle of sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Halloumi’s unique grilling properties are key. For a similar result, try queso panela or frying firm tofu.
How do I grill the corn? You can grill fresh corn cobs on a barbecue or in a grill pan. Alternatively, use thawed frozen corn kernels charred in a hot, dry skillet for 5-7 minutes.
Can I make components ahead? Yes. The corn salad (add avocado just before serving) and sauce can be made 1 day ahead. Grill the halloumi fresh for the best texture.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce? Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative will work well for a similar creamy tang.
My halloumi is sticking to the pan. What did I do wrong? Ensure your pan is fully preheated before adding the cheese. Also, do not move the slices for the first 1-2 minutes to allow a crust to form.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Grill halloumi in batches to avoid steaming and ensure proper browning.
- Adding Salt Too Early: Halloumi is already salty. Always taste the final dish before adding extra salt.
- Using Cold Halloumi: Let the cheese sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
- Soggy Tacos: Assemble tacos immediately before serving to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Grilled Halloumi Tacos are a stunning, flavor-packed fusion dish that is surprisingly simple to execute. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of salty, grilled cheese, fresh corn salad, and creamy sauce is guaranteed to impress, making these tacos a perfect centerpiece for any casual dinner or festive occasion.