These Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a fun treat! Soft and salty halloumi cheese is paired with bright lemon and fresh thyme, making every bite delightful.
Grilling brings out the cheese’s yummy flavor, and the lemon adds a zesty kick. I love serving these at parties since they disappear fast—everyone loves cheese on a stick! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halloumi Cheese: Halloumi is a unique cheese that doesn’t melt easily, making it perfect for grilling. If you can’t find halloumi, try using paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option, but remember the texture and taste will differ.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil is a great substitute. Both will help achieve a nice grill without sticking.
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme brings a wonderful aroma. If you only have dried thyme, use about half the amount. You can also experiment with herbs like oregano or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you don’t have lemons, you could use lime instead, or even a splash of vinegar like apple cider for tanginess.
How Do I Ensure the Halloumi Doesn’t Melt on the Grill?
Grilling halloumi is pretty easy, but avoiding a melty mess is key! First, cut the cheese into 1-inch cubes. This size allows it to grill well without slipping through the grates. Here’s how to grill it perfectly:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. A hot grill helps create those lovely grill marks quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space them out so the heat can circulate.
- Keep an eye on the cheese as it cooks. Grill for just 2-3 minutes per side, turning once. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s golden brown to prevent overcooking.
Follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled halloumi skewers every time!
Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus the time for grilling, which takes about 10 minutes. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to enjoy these delicious skewers from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Halloumi:
Gently add the halloumi cubes to the bowl and toss them until they’re well coated with the marinade. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the cheese soak up all those delicious flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the cheese marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures that the halloumi gets a nice sear when it hits the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread the marinated halloumi cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the halloumi is golden brown and shows nice grill marks. Be cautious not to overcook; halloumi should be firm but warm in the center!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve them with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Enjoy the warm, salty, and tangy flavors of these grilled halloumi skewers – they’re perfect for entertaining or a quick, tasty snack!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme
Can I Substitute Halloumi with Another Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find halloumi, paneer is a great alternative as it also holds its shape when grilled. Tofu can work too if you’re looking for a vegan option, but it may not provide the same chewy texture.
How Do I Prevent the Halloumi from Melting on the Grill?
To prevent melting, ensure your halloumi is cut into 1-inch cubes and grilled on medium-high heat. Grill for just 2-3 minutes per side and remove it as soon as it turns golden brown to keep it firm!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the halloumi up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, thread it onto skewers and cook as directed!
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled halloumi skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook them.
