Grilled Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Olive Dressing is a delectable blend of flavors, combining the goodness of halloumi cheese with the freshness of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. High in healthy fats and low in carbs, this salad is an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic diet or anyone seeking a nutritious and delicious meal.

This recipe dates back centuries to the island of Cyprus, where halloumi cheese was first crafted by local shepherds. Traditionally made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, this firm, brined cheese has a unique texture and a tangy flavor, making it the star ingredient in this salad.

Nutritionally, this salad is a powerhouse, offering a rich source of protein, calcium, and healthy fats from the cheese, while the vegetables provide an array of vitamins and minerals.    Be sure to pat the halloumi dry before grilling to enhance its texture and prevent sticking. As for storage, keep any leftover salad separate from the dressing to retain its freshness.

This Grilled Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Olive Dressing appeals to individuals with diverse palates, from health-conscious foodies looking for a flavorful low-carb option to Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts yearning for a taste of the region’s iconic cheese.

Its combination of textures, colors, and  robust flavors makes it a delightful choice for a light lunch, refreshing dinner, or a side dish at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• For the salad:
• 8 ounces (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• For the Lemon-Olive Dressing:
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the Lemon-Olive Dressing.
3. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Set aside.
4. Pat dry the halloumi slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps in achieving a better texture when grilling.
5. Place the halloumi slices on the preheated grill or pan.
6. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown grill marks appear.
7. Be careful not to overcook, as halloumi can become too chewy when overdone.
8. Once grilled, remove the halloumi from the heat and let it cool slightly.
9. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
10. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
11. Add the grilled halloumi to the bowl with the vegetables.
12. Drizzle the Lemon-Olive Dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well-coated.
13. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
14. Serve the Grilled Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Olive Dressing immediately as a light and refreshing meal or as a delightful side dish.

Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful Grilled Halloumi Salad with Lemon-Olive Dressing! It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner option, or a delightful addition to your next gathering or barbecue.