Grilled Halloumi Skewers

Description

Grilled Halloumi Skewers

These sweet and savory Grilled Halloumi Skewers are perfect for summer! Combining the deliciously marinated halloumi cheese with fresh veggies, they create a delightfully bright and tasty dish that’s sure to be a hit at any barbecue or gathering. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is easy to prepare and brings a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a main, these skewers are guaranteed to impress your guests!

8 oz halloumi cheese, cubed
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 zucchini, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss halloumi and veggies in the marinade.
3. Thread halloumi, bell peppers, and zucchini onto skewers.
4. Grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning often, until halloumi is golden.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 250 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect skewers every time.

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper until fully emulsified.
2. Marinate Ingredients: Add the cubed halloumi, bell pepper chunks, and zucchini slices to the bowl. Gently toss with your hands or a spoon to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Soak Skewers: If using wooden or bamboo skewers, submerge them in water for at least 20 minutes before assembling to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated halloumi and vegetables onto the skewers in an alternating pattern. Leave a small space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
5. Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill to a medium heat (approximately 375°F – 400°F). Place the skewers on the grill grates. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning them every 2-3 minutes, until the halloumi has distinct grill marks and is golden brown, and the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile skewers can be served in multiple ways. For a light meal, place them over a bed of lemon-herb couscous or a simple quinoa salad. As an appetizer, serve with a side of tzatziki, hummus, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for dipping. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh, crisp green salad and some warm pita bread to complete the Mediterranean feast.

How-to Summary

Quickly whisk a lemon-oregano marinade. Coat halloumi cubes and vegetable chunks. Thread them onto pre-soaked skewers. Grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until cheese is golden and veggies are grilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these skewers ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the skewers and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before grilling. For best results, add the marinade just before cooking to prevent the halloumi from becoming too salty.
• Can I use a different cheese? Halloumi is ideal for grilling because it holds its shape. Firm tofu or paneer are the best substitutes, though the flavor and texture will differ.
• What if I don’t have a grill? A grill pan or a broiler works perfectly. Cook under a preheated broiler for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway, until nicely charred.
• How do I prevent the halloumi from sticking? Ensure your grill grates are clean, well-oiled, and properly preheated before adding the skewers.
• Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are excellent additions. Just be mindful of varying cooking times and cut vegetables to similar sizes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Skewer Soak: For wooden skewers, skipping the water soak will cause them to burn and potentially break on the grill.
• Over-marinating the Halloumi: Marinating for more than 30 minutes can make the cheese overly salty and slightly mushy on the surface.
• Grilling on High Heat: Too high heat will cause the halloumi to burn on the outside before the vegetables cook through. Medium heat is key.
• Crowding the Skewers: Packing ingredients too tightly on the skewer prevents even heat circulation, leading to uneven cooking.

Conclusion

These Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a stunning, flavorful, and surprisingly simple dish that captures the essence of summer cooking. With minimal prep and maximum impact, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a recipe that’s perfect for casual dinners or impressive entertaining. Fire up the grill and enjoy this taste of the Mediterranean.