Marinated in a zesty dressing with a hint of heat, these Halloumi Kebabs are the perfect addition to your next grill out. With a mild, salty flavor and a bouncy texture, lightly charred Halloumi combines beautifully with seared vegetables to make the perfect kebab.
I could not love these anymore! If you have never tried Halloumi - you MUST. It the perfect grilling cheese, and this marinade sets it over the top. Since I made these the first time, I've made them twice more because I can't get enough. They are perfect for your last grill out of the season, or for your next football party!
What is Halloumi?
Halloumi is a briny Mediterranean goat-and sheep-milk cheese. It tastes sort of like a saltier Mozzarella. (It has a very mild taste.). It is lower in fat than a lot of cheeses and protein rich.
It is unique in that it has a high melting temperature. When cooked, the outside gets crispy while the inside gets deliciously soft.
Variations
- If you can't find za'atar, use a combination of ground sumac, thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds.
- Eggplant, zucchini, and asparagus are all great additions to the kebabs.
Where Can I Find Halloumi Cheese?
Both Whole Foods and Trader Joes carry it, as do some higher-end grocery stores in larger cities. Additionally, you can buy it online.
How Do You Know When Halloumi is Cooked?
Halloumi is cooked when it starts to turn golden brown. Like all cheeses, it isn't necessary to cook halloumi for it to be safe for consumption. So there is no minimum internal temperature to be concerned with.
Is Halloumi Healthy?
Halloumi can be an excellent part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It is an excellent source of calcium and has a whopping 19 grams of protein. This makes is especially good for vegetarians, or Meatless Monday. It also contains B vitamins, zinc, selenium, magnesium, and vitamin A. Those who need to watch their salt intake may wish to avoid it. Like feta, it is high in salt.
What Do You Serve with Halloumi Kebabs?
I think this is a great vegetarian meal by itself, and even more so when served with a green salad. If you do want to serve meat, this works well with a simple dish. Grilled or Air Fried Chicken are great options. If you want a sauce, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus or Tzatziki are fabulous here. This Mint Tzatziki is a fun twist too.
Can You Make Halloumi Kebabs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Because the marinate continues to permeate the vegetables and cheese, making this dish up to 24 hours ahead of time makes it even tastier. Then cook them when you are ready to serve.
Leftovers will keep for about three days covered in the refrigerator.
Tools Needed
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- Wooden Skewers
- Blender
- Shallow Dishes for Marinating
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Brush for Oiling Grill or Grill Pan
How to Make Halloumi Kebabs
First, make your marinade by combining olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and seasonings in a blender. Process until smooth.
Cut the Halloumi into cubes and place it in a small dish. Pour the marinade over and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
While the cheese is marinating, soak your skewers.
And chop your vegetables.
Add the vegetables to the marinade and allow to sit for 15 minutes.
Thread the Halloumi and vegetables on the soaked skewers. Go slowly when threading the Halloumi so it doesn't split!
Heat your grill pan (or grill) to medium-high and brush with oil. Grill about 90 seconds per side, until lightly charred.
You May Also Like
- Confetti Vegetables are an easy side that is flavor packed.
- Roasted Summer Squash with manchego cheese is quick to make, and always a hit.
- Roasted Broccoli Pasta is comfort food made healthy. This is one I make again and agai.
Halloumi Kebabs
Ingredients
- 8 skewers
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon Za’atar see variations for other options
- 1/4 teaspoon Crushed red pepper
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Kebabs
- 8 ounces Halloumi
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 1 red pepper cut into 1-inch squares
- 1 red onion cut into wedges
Instructions
- Soak skewers in water for at least 20 minutes.
- In a blender combine olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, Za’atar, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
- Cut the Halloumi into cubes and place in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the halloumi.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
- Add tomatoes, red pepper, and red onion to the dish with the marinade. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Thread halloumi, tomatoes, red pepper and red onion on the soaked skewers.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly brush with oil.
- Grill about 1 1/2 minute per side, until the cheese is lightly charred.
Notes
Variations for Halloumi and Vegetable Kebabs
- If you can't find za'atar, use a combination of ground sumac, thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds.
- Eggplant, zucchini, and asparagus are all great additions to the kebabs.
Nutrition
This post was originally posted September 2018 and updated May 2020.
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