If you've ever wondered how to Cook Halloumi Cheese, you're in the right place! In this post, we will walk through the simple process of how to cook halloumi cheese. It is a zero-carb food—perfect for appetizers, salads, breakfast, and more.
If you want a healthy snack idea, this recipe fits the spot. It's so easy to make and requires only 2 ingredients! Together, we will see just how easy it is to perfectly sear halloumi, turning it into a golden, crispy, and utterly delicious eating experience. Whether you're new to halloumi or a longtime fan, this simple method will have you make this snack again and again. Let's get started!
This recipe is:
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- Low Carb
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- Keto
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- Gluten Free
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- Vegetarian
Table of Contents
5 Reasons to love this recipe
These are the 5 reasons why this halloumi recipe is a must-try for your next meal:
- The combination of olive oil and cooked halloumi is amazing.
- When halloumi is sautéed, the flavor is off the chart.
- Perfect snack for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Very fast to make, with minimal cleanup.
- Can be paired with marinara sauce, lemon herb sauce, and so many others.
Is Halloumi Cheese Low-Carb?
Absolutely! This halloumi cheese is low-carb and keto-friendly. Each serving packs 5 g of protein and 0 g of net carbs, making it a perfect snack or appetizer choice for your low-carb diet!
My Inspiration For How to Cook Halloumi Cheese
My love affair with halloumi cheese began while making a Lebanese-style pizza topped with hummus and grilled halloumi – an incredibly flavorful but high-carb meal. My family loves it, but it disappeared from my meal rotations in 2017 when I embraced the low-carb diet.
Recently, my wife asked me to make Lebanese pizza again. I decided to focus on making the halloumi replace the flatbread, leading to an exploration of pan-searing halloumi to perfection.
To keep it all low-carb, I deleted the hummus and paired it with a zesty lemon and herb sauce. The result? An amazing, keto-friendly dish that everyone loves.
Is Halloumi Cheese Low-Carb and Keto?
Yes. This halloumi cheese recipe isn't just low-carb; it's zero-carb, making it the perfect choice for both low-carb and keto diets.
By its nature, halloumi contains virtually no carbohydrates, which aligns perfectly with the requirements of ketosis. This dish continues with zero carbohydrates when pan-seared to crispy perfection in olive oil.
It's an ideal option for those who meticulously track their carb intake for ketosis. You can use it as a base for any number of keto-friendly toppings.
Halloumi Cheese Ingredients List
You'll need only 2 ingredients to make halloumi cheese:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound halloumi cheese, sliced
Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi is a firm, salty cheese that holds up well to heat, making it perfect for pan-searing to achieve a crispy outer texture while remaining delightfully chewy inside.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for pan-searing. It prevents the cheese from sticking to the pan and adds a nice flavor profile to the halloumi.
Additional Ingredients
Enhance your grilling cheese recipe with these simple ingredients that perfectly complement its delicious flavors:
- Acid: Add a lemon or lime juice drizzle for a fresh tangy twist.
- Toppings: Try lemon herb sauce, marinara sauce, pesto, or other keto-friendly sauces for added flavor variations
Note: These are optional ingredients and are not included in the original recipe.
Cooking tools required
You'll need the following cooking tools to make grilled halloumi cheese:
- Non-stick skillet
- Spatula/tongs
How To Cook Halloumi Cheese?: Complete Guide
Cooking Method
- Pan-searing
Preparation Steps
- Gather all the tools and ingredients for this recipe.
Cooking Instructions
- Slice the Halloumi: Cut the halloumi cheese into medium-thick slices. Avoid cutting too thin to ensure the slices of about ¼ inch each hold up to the heat and remain soft in the middle.
- Prepare the Pan: The best way to cook halloumi is in a non-stick pan. Begin by heating a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and adding the olive oil. This helps prevent the cheese from sticking and adds a more complex flavor. You can also use clarified butter or ghee.
- Add the Halloumi Slices: Once the oil is heated, gently place the halloumi slices in the pan.
- Cook the Halloumi: Let the halloumi slices cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This allows the cheese to develop a golden-brown sear. Do not flip too soon; the cheese will lift easily from the pan when ready.
- Achieve Crispy Texture: As the halloumi cooks, it will form a crispy texture while staying soft and slightly chewy inside.
- Remove and Serve: Once both sides are golden and crispy, remove the halloumi from the pan and serve immediately while it is warm and the texture is just right.
How do I change the recipe to grill the halloumi cheese?
Grilling halloumi cheese is a great way to cook it as well. It is quite simple. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place them on the grill, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side or until you see those beautiful grill marks.
Step 1: Slice your halloumi cheese into ¼ inch slices.
Step 2: Once the oil is hot, cook the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3: Flip the halloumi slices and sear them until crispy and delicious.
Step 4: Cook the halloumi in batches, so keep them on a warming rack in the oven until ready to serve.
💡 My Pro Tip
Two essentials make all the difference in this recipe: a quality non-stick pan with a lid and precisely slicing the halloumi just under ¼ inch thick. Slicing thinner can lead to a tough texture after cooking. In contrast, thicker slices may not cook evenly, resulting in a slightly squeaky interior—halloumi's unique charm when raw. With these tips, perfecting this dish is a breeze!
More Tips to Ace This Recipe
- Choose the Right Halloumi: Select halloumi cheese that feels firm to the touch to ensure it holds its shape well when cooked. Halloumi comes in various forms, sometimes infused with herbs or spices, allowing for experimentation.
- Prevent stickiness: Halloumi can stick to the pan despite its high melting point. Use clarified butter or ghee instead of olive oil if preferred.
- Control the heat: Cooking halloumi over medium heat is crucial. High heat risks burning the cheese quickly due to its low moisture content, while low heat may not achieve the desired crispy exterior.
- Avoid overcrowding: Ensure the pan isn't overcrowded when cooking halloumi slices. This promotes even cooking and achieves a golden-brown sear.
- Patience is key: Allow halloumi to cook undisturbed on each side for a few minutes. Flipping too soon may prevent the formation of a delicious crust.
- Serve fresh: Halloumi is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, as it may become firmer and less enjoyable as it cools.
- Make-ahead option: This halloumi recipe can be prepared in advance. Simply brown the halloumi, cool it on a rack, and reheat it in the oven for 5 minutes before serving—a perfect make-ahead appetizer!
- Enhance flavors: Balance halloumi's salty profile by pairing it with acidic or fresh flavors like lemon juice, fresh tomatoes, or a light salad.
- Experiment with seasonings: Sprinkle dried herbs or spices such as oregano, paprika, or black pepper onto the cheese before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Pairing idea: Serve crispy halloumi alongside a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg for a delicious combination, surpassing traditional toast in flavor and satisfaction.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Cook the halloumi in advance and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Later, reheat briefly before serving to maintain crispiness.
- Cook smaller batches of halloumi for quicker and more even browning.
- Opt for a nonstick pan to simplify cooking and prevent sticking. I once used a stainless steel pan, but it requires a lot of monitoring.
- Prepare lemon herb sauce or marinara ahead to streamline serving.
What to Serve With Halloumi Cheese?
Halloumi cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its savory and slightly salty flavor profile. For a complete and delicious meal, try pairing these recipes with halloumi cheese:
- Lemon and Herb Sauce: Drizzle freshly-made lemon and herb sauce over seared halloumi cheese for a burst of citrusy freshness and aromatic herb flavors, enhancing its savory profile.
- Baked Zucchini: Serve slices of baked zucchini alongside halloumi for a deliciously tender and mildly sweet contrast, perfect for a satisfying low-carb meal.
- Fajita Frittata: Add these halloumi fries into a fajita frittata, blending savory halloumi with seasoned peppers and onions for a hearty, protein-packed meal suitable for any time of day.
- Marinara Sauce: Combine fried halloumi with this easy and delicious marinara sauce to get authentic pizza flavors!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing
After cooking, if you have leftover halloumi cheese, it can be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Place the cooled cheese in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Properly stored, cooked halloumi will last about a week in the fridge.
Freezing
I can't recommend freezing this halloumi cheese recipe. It alters the texture and flavors, resulting in a rubbery mess.
Reheating
A skillet over low to medium heat works great to reheat cooked halloumi. Gently warm the cheese until it's heated through and slightly crispy again. You can also reheat in a warm oven (about 165°F) for 5 minutes or so. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese rubbery.
Recipe Conclusion
Cooking up crispy halloumi is not just a meal—it's an adventurous cooking journey! Once you've learned How to Cook Halloumi Cheese, from slicing it just right, to achieving that perfect golden brown, each step brings you closer to a dish that's both delicious and satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, mastering this halloumi recipe always guarantees a flavorful adventure.
Feel the excitement of creating something extraordinary in your own kitchen. Let the aroma of sizzling halloumi ignite your passion for cooking. Share your experience with loved ones and relish in the joy of good food and great company. Take the leap, seize the skillet, and embark on your next cooking journey—crispy halloumi cheese recipes await!
More APPETIZER RECIPES TO TRY:
- Keto Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers: A perfect blend of spicy and savory, these poppers wrapped in crispy bacon are a keto-friendly delight that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.
- Cheesy Keto Breadsticks: Indulge in these keto breadsticks' gooey, cheesy goodness, a perfect low carb treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dips and sauces.
- Amazing Roasted Eggplant Appetizer: Discover roasted eggplant's rich, smoky flavors in this simple yet stunning appetizer with Burrata that's as elegant as it is delicious.
- Easy Cream Cheese Dip: Whip up this creamy and versatile dip in minutes; it's the ideal low carb companion for veggies, crackers, or keto breads.
- Easy Guacamole Recipe: Fresh, zesty, and full of flavor, this guacamole recipe is a timeless classic that's a must-have for your low carb snack arsenal.
- Stuffed Cherry BLT Tomatoes: Combining the delicious flavors of a BLT, these bite-sized cherry tomatoes are stuffed with a delightful mixture, making them a refreshing and novel appetizer for any gathering.
FAQs
Halloumi cheese can typically be found in the cheese section of most grocery stores, especially those with a good selection of international or specialty foods. It is often in a box with a cutout showing the cheese. You can also check local cheese shops and European-style markets.
If you can't find halloumi, a great substitute is Queso Fresco. This cheese also holds up well to grilling or pan-searing without melting away. Another alternative is feta cheese. Although it's softer and more crumbly, it can still be lightly grilled or fried. Keep in mind that feta will not develop this nice crust and firm texture.
Halloumi is best enjoyed immediately after cooking for optimal texture and flavor.
Grilled halloumi can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.
Absolutely! Halloumi can be baked to create a deliciously crispy exterior. Simply preheat your oven, place sliced halloumi on a baking sheet, and bake until golden brown, usually around 10-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Halloumi Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb halloumi cheese sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Halloumi: Start by slicing the 1lb block of Halloumi cheese into medium-thick slices, about ¼ inch each. This thickness is the KEY for ensuring a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, slightly chewy interior.
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add two to three tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the halloumi, complementing its natural flavors.
- Pan-Sear the Halloumi: Carefully place the halloumi slices in the pan once the oil is hot. Cook the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until each side is golden brown and crispy. This process is key to creating that perfect texture that makes halloumi so enjoyable.
- Repeat: Please try not to overcrowd the pan, as it will not brown properly. The idea is to cook the halloumi in batches.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Halloumi: Look for halloumi cheese that feels firm to the touch. This ensures that it will hold its shape well when cooked. Halloumi is available in various forms, sometimes flavored with herbs or spices, so feel free to experiment.
- Prep for Less Stickiness: Halloumi can stick to the pan despite its high melting point. You can use clarified butter or ghee instead of olive oil if you prefer.
- Control the Heat: Cooking halloumi over medium heat is important. High heat can cause the cheese to burn quickly due to its low moisture content, while low heat might not give it that crispy exterior layer.
- No Overcrowding: Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the halloumi slices. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and gets a nice, golden-brown sear.
- Patience is Key: Allow the halloumi to cook undisturbed on each side for a couple of minutes. Flipping it too soon might prevent it from developing that delicious crust.
- Serving Time: Halloumi is best served immediately after cooking. As it cools, it can become firmer and less enjoyable.
- Make Ahead: This halloumi cheese recipe can be made ahead... simply brown the halloumi and cool it on a rack. When you want to serve, heat it in the oven for 5 minutes until nice and warm again. It's the perfect make-ahead appetizer!
- Complementary Flavors: Consider pairing your halloumi with acidic or fresh flavors to balance its salty nature. Lemon juice, fresh tomatoes, or a light salad are great accompaniments.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Feel free to sprinkle some dried herbs or spices onto the cheese before cooking. Oregano, paprika, and black pepper are great options.
- Pairing Idea: I love to dunk my crispy halloumi cheese into a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg. Absolutely delicious. Even better than toast!
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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