Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables

Name: Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 250g halloumi cheese, sliced; 2 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Wellness Plates

I love making Grilled Halloumi with Vegetables because it's an easy, flavorful dish that comes together in no time. The crispy, savory halloumi cheese pairs beautifully with charred seasonal veggies, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal. Whether I'm grilling on a sunny day or just craving something fresh and delicious, this recipe never disappoints. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a hearty side at dinner, and I can’t get enough of the mix of textures and flavors that make it absolutely irresistible.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:24:38.432Z

When I first decided to try Grilled Halloumi with Vegetables, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of the squeaky cheese and the smoky, slightly caramelized veggies is just an explosion of flavor. I experimented with different vegetable combinations, but found that zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes create the perfect balance.

One key tip I learned is to make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the halloumi on it. This way, you get those fantastic grill marks and a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. This recipe is now a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The crispy texture of grilled halloumi adds a delightful contrast to tender veggies.
Fresh herbs and bright lemon juice elevate the dish into something special.
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Halloumi

Grilling halloumi requires a careful balance to achieve that perfect golden crust without burning it. I suggest setting the grill to medium-high heat, as this helps the outside sear while keeping the inside warm and soft. The cheese is best grilled for about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it, as halloumi can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. To enhance grill marks, don’t overcrowd the grill; give each slice space to breathe.

Another pivotal factor is preparing your halloumi. Before grilling, pat the slices dry with a paper towel; this helps remove excess moisture which can prevent a good sear. If you find that your halloumi is sticking to the grill, consider lightly oiling the grill grates or adding a splash of oil to the cheese itself. This not only prevents sticking but also enriches the flavor.

Understanding Vegetable Choices

The selection of vegetables can significantly impact both the flavor and texture of this dish. Zucchini and bell peppers harmonize beautifully with halloumi due to their natural sweetness and juiciness when grilled. However, don't hesitate to mix in other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms, which can add depth to your meal. If you're using thicker vegetables, slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly alongside the cheese.

For the best results, choose fresh, ripe produce. This enhances the dish's vibrant colors and flavors. If you’re short on time, pre-cut or frozen veggies can be used, but you won’t quite get the same char. Be mindful to adjust grilling times, as frozen veggies may require a slightly longer cooking period to get that desired tenderness and grill marks.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250g halloumi cheese, sliced
2 medium zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
1 cup cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Seasoning

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Grill the Halloumi

Place the halloumi slices on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Grill the Vegetables

In the same grill pan, add the seasoned vegetables and grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Serve

On a serving platter, layer the grilled halloumi and vegetables. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired and garnish with fresh herbs.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the halloumi in lemon juice and herbs for an hour before grilling. You can also use other vegetables like eggplant or asparagus based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can prep the veggies and halloumi ahead of time. Cut and marinate the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper the night before, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The halloumi can be sliced and stored, but it's best to grill it fresh just before serving to maintain its texture.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the halloumi from becoming rubbery. Alternatively, you can enjoy the grilled vegetables cold in a salad or as a sandwich filling, adding versatility to this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Grilled Halloumi with Vegetables can easily be a standalone meal, but I love to pair it with a refreshing side salad or grain like quinoa for extra texture. Toss in some nuts or seeds to your grain for added crunch. You could also serve it with a yogurt sauce on the side for a creamy contrast that complements the smoky flavors of the grilled halloumi and veggies.

For a fun twist, consider using this dish as a filling for wraps or pitas. The grilled halloumi and veggies work well with a bit of hummus, giving you a nutritious, handheld option. This presentation makes it great for picnics or casual gatherings, bringing an elegant touch to a relaxed setting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute halloumi with feta or paneer, but the texture will vary.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can grill the vegetables and halloumi ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What vegetables work best for this dish?

Any firm vegetables work well, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or even mushrooms.

→ Can I cook this recipe in the oven?

Yes! You can roast the vegetables and halloumi in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes.