Imagine biting into perfectly grilled skewers with chunks of salty halloumi cheese paired with sweet bell peppers and sharp red onions. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that's bursting with color and flavor, ideal for summer barbecues or a quick family dinner.
The halloumi, a cheese that retains its shape and texture even when grilled, is the star of the show, making these skewers a delightful choice for both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.
Why This Recipe Works
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity coupled with its bold flavors. Halloumi cheese is unique because it doesn't melt away when heated, instead it turns beautifully golden-brown, offering a satisfying chew and salty kick that complements the sweetness of the bell peppers and the tangy bite of the onions. This balance of flavors makes each bite both comforting and invigorating. Additionally, the recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions such as using different types of vegetables or cheeses based on what’s available in your fridge or what suits your taste.
Another reason to love this recipe is its convenience and quick preparation time. From start to finish, it only takes about 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a fast weeknight meal or a last-minute addition to your dinner party menu. It requires minimal prep and even less cooking time. Plus, these skewers are a fantastic way to encourage kids and adults alike to eat their veggies, wrapped up in a fun and tasty package. Whether you're looking for a light meal or a side dish that packs a punch, these skewers are sure to impress with their vibrant colors and robust flavors.
Ingredients
Halloumi Cheese: A grilling cheese that stays firm when cooked. Substitute: Paneer or firm tofu.
Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful, they add crunch and brightness. Substitute: Zucchini or mushrooms.
Red Onion: Adds a sharp depth of flavor, balancing the sweet peppers. Substitute: Shallots for a milder option.
Olive Oil: For brushing and grilling, it enhances flavor. Substitute: Avocado oil.
Lemon Juice: Gives a zesty finish to the skewers. Substitute: Lime juice for a tropical twist.
Tips
- Soak wooden skewers for about 20 minutes in water before grilling to prevent burning.
- Preheat the grill to ensure it’s hot before adding your skewers.
- Keep an eye on the skewers to avoid overcooking; halloumi should be golden but not tough.
- Vegetables should be cut uniformly for even cooking.
- Serve these skewers right off the grill for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Halloumi skewers are wonderfully flexible for various eating occasions. They're a hit at backyard barbecues or as a vibrant addition to any meal. The skewers are particularly delightful when served hot, as the cheese is wonderfully melty and the vegetables have a nice char.
- On a Bed of Greens: Lay them over a fresh salad of arugula and spinach, drizzled with a vinaigrette, making a light yet satisfying meal.
- As a Party Platter: Arrange them beautifully on a large platter surrounded by dipping sauces like tzatziki or hummus for guests to enjoy.
- Stuffed Pitas: Slide the grilled contents off the skewers directly into pita breads smeared with garlic sauce for a delicious wrap.
Similar Recipes
Halloumi Kebabs
Ingredients
- 250 g halloumi cheese cut into cubes
- 2 bell peppers red and yellow, cut into chunks
- 1 large red onion cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: dried oregano or fresh herbs for extra flavor
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the halloumi, bell peppers, and onion alternately onto the skewers.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Brush the skewers with the oil mixture.
- Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the cheese is golden and the vegetables are charred.
- Serve hot, optionally sprinkled with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
Nutrition
Notes
• Preheat the grill to ensure it’s hot before adding your skewers.
• Keep an eye on the skewers to avoid overcooking; halloumi should be golden but not tough.
• Vegetables should be cut uniformly for even cooking.
• Serve these skewers right off the grill for the best flavor and texture.