Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables

Name: Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 250g halloumi cheese, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Ideas

I love making Grilled Halloumi with Vegetables because it’s a quick and vibrant dish that brings out the best flavors of summer. The creamy, salty halloumi pairs beautifully with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, it always impresses. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues. Join me in creating this mouthwatering dish that will brighten any meal!

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-03-19T21:53:56.853Z

As I began experimenting with different ways to use halloumi cheese, grilling it quickly became one of my favorites. The heat transforms the cheese into a rich and slightly charred masterpiece, perfectly complementing the smoky flavor from the grill. I like to toss in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, which not only add color but also provide a crunchy contrast to the softness of the cheese.

What I’ve found is that marinating the vegetables for just a short time enhances their natural sweetness, making the overall dish incredibly flavorful. This simple step is key—don’t skip it! I recommend using a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs to boost the taste even more. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The satisfying chew of grilled halloumi awaits in every bite.
Vibrant, fresh vegetables make this dish a feast for the eyes.
Perfect for a light lunch or a delightful dinner side with friends.

Choosing the Right Halloumi

When selecting halloumi cheese for this grilled dish, opt for a high-quality variety for the best flavor and texture. Fresh halloumi should firm to the touch, with minimal moisture seeping from the packaging. Aged or drier halloumi may be tougher and won't yield the delightful chewiness we want. I recommend choosing the one that's packed in brine, as it helps to keep the cheese moist and flavorful while grilling.

Before grilling, slice the halloumi no thicker than 1 cm to ensure it cooks evenly. If the slices are too thick, they may heat unevenly, risking a gooey center while the exterior gets overly charred. Also, for an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the halloumi briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before grilling.

Perfecting Your Grilled Vegetables

Preparation is key when it comes to the grilled vegetables. Slice your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. For instance, bell peppers and zucchini should be cut into strips, while the red onion should be cut into wedges that hold together. This method not only helps with presentation but also ensures that every vegetable cooks at the same rate, achieving that desirable caramelization without turning mushy.

Additionally, if you're looking to experiment with flavors, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of balsamic vinegar to your vegetable marinade. These additions will complement the halloumi beautifully, enhancing the dish's overall profile. Remember, keeping an eye on the grill is crucial—remove the vegetables once they are tender and have beautiful char marks, generally taking about 8-10 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Halloumi and Vegetables

250g halloumi cheese, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.

Grill the Vegetables

Preheat the grill over medium heat. Place the marinated vegetables in a grill basket and grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.

Grill the Halloumi

In the last few minutes of grilling, add the halloumi slices directly to the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and grill marks appear.

Serve

Remove the grilled vegetables and halloumi from the grill. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the halloumi in lemon juice or your favorite herbs for a few minutes before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled halloumi and vegetable dish can be served as a stunning centerpiece or a delightful side. Pair it with a light, fresh salad, such as arugula with a citrus dressing, to balance the richness of the cheese. Alternatively, serve it alongside quinoa or couscous for a heartier meal, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully on the plate.

For a more Italian-inspired version, consider drizzling the assembly with a balsamic reduction before serving. This sweet and tangy glaze will elevate the dish further and enhance the grilled flavors.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled vegetables and halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that halloumi tends to lose its textural integrity when reheated. When reheating, skip the microwave and use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to maintain the cheese's integrity and ensure it doesn't become rubbery.

You can also easily prepare these ingredients ahead of time. Marinate the vegetables and halloumi a few hours in advance, and store them in the refrigerator. This also allows the flavors to marry perfectly, resulting in even tastier grilled vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as asparagus or eggplant.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover grilled halloumi and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Is halloumi suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, halloumi is made from sheep's milk (and sometimes goat's milk) and is considered vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and roast the vegetables on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes before adding the halloumi, which should be roasted for an additional 10 minutes.