Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables

Name: Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g halloumi cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Living Kitchen

I absolutely love making Grilled Halloumi with Vegetables for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of the salty halloumi and the fresh, vibrant vegetables makes for a dish that is not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes. It’s perfect for a summer cookout or a light dinner any night of the week. The best part is how easy it is to prepare – just a bit of marinating and grilling, and you have a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Trust me, it will become one of your go-to recipes!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:52:36.371Z

When I first started making this dish, I was amazed at how quickly the ingredients came together on the grill. The aroma of the melting halloumi mixed with the charred vegetables transports me right to a Mediterranean summer. I find that allowing the vegetables to marinate in garlic and lemon juice before grilling really enhances their flavor.

This recipe never fails to impress my friends at gatherings. I like to serve it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs on top for that added touch. It's nutritious, colorful, and absolutely delightful to eat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly grilled halloumi that crisps up beautifully
Fresh vegetables that add a crunch and vibrant colors
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices

Choosing Your Vegetables

The choice of vegetables can truly elevate your Grilled Halloumi dish, both in flavor and aesthetics. While red bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions are recommended, you can also incorporate other favorites like asparagus, mushrooms, or eggplant. Each vegetable will contribute unique textures and tastes—mushrooms add an earthy depth, while asparagus brings a delightful crunch. Aim for a mix of colors and shapes to make your plate visually striking.

It's best to choose vegetables that grill well, meaning they hold their shape and develop a lovely char. When slicing your vegetables, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. For example, cut zucchini into half-moons that are about 1cm thick; they will cook through without becoming mushy. Seasonal vegetables not only enhance the dish but also align with freshness, so feel free to explore what’s available at your local market.

The Halloumi Factor

Halloumi cheese deserves special attention in this recipe. It is a semi-hard cheese known for its high melting point, allowing it to be grilled or fried without losing its shape. Ensuring your halloumi is sliced uniformly into 1cm thick pieces is crucial; this thickness provides the best texture, allowing for a beautifully crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, slightly gooey interior. Too thin, and it may dissolve on the grill; too thick, and it won't heat through adequately.

For a flavor boost, consider marinating the halloumi in the same olive oil, lemon, and garlic mixture used for the vegetables. This will not only infuse extra flavor but also enhance the crispy texture when grilled. Experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or fresh herbs can also provide an interesting twist to the traditional flavor profile.

Ingredients

For Grilled Halloumi

250g halloumi cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced

For Vegetables

1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Vegetables

Toss the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes in the marinade, and let sit for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Halloumi

Slice the halloumi cheese into 1cm thick pieces and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

Grill the Vegetables

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and add the marinated vegetables. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly charred.

Grill the Halloumi

Add the halloumi to the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and crispy.

Serve

Serve the grilled halloumi alongside the vegetables, drizzling with more olive oil if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add chili flakes to the marinade. Experiment with different vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Once everything is grilled to perfection, serve the halloumi and vegetables on a large platter. To elevate the presentation further, you might sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, on top for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of additional olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can enhance the dish's flavors significantly and offers a bright finish.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it on a bed of couscous or quinoa to round out the meal. If you're feeling indulgent, a dollop of tzatziki or a side of pita bread can add an extra layer of texture and flavor, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this recipe is how make-ahead friendly it is. You can marinate the vegetables and halloumi in advance—just make sure to keep everything covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. Allow at least 30 minutes for the halloumi and vegetables to marinate, which will intensify their flavors and help them become more vibrant on the grill.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them in a pan over medium heat instead of the microwave to preserve that lovely grilled texture. Alternatively, you can garnish any leftovers with fresh herbs and enjoy them as part of a salad, adding a refreshing twist to your next meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan works great on the stovetop and will give you similar results.

→ What can I substitute for halloumi?

Feta or a firm vegan cheese can be used, but they may not hold their shape the same way.

→ What other vegetables go well with this recipe?

Feel free to add eggplant, asparagus, or even fresh corn for variety.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the vegetables and halloumi a few hours ahead, just grill them when you're ready to serve.