Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables

Name: Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g halloumi cheese, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love preparing grilled halloumi with vegetables because it’s a quick and flavorful dish that brings summer vibes to my plate, no matter the season. The crispy, golden halloumi pairs perfectly with the smoky taste of grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit anyone's taste—just add your favorite veggies and you'll have a vibrant meal ready in no time.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:09:36.135Z

When I first tried grilled halloumi, I was amazed at how it holds its shape while giving off a delightful grilled flavor. The secret is to slice it thick enough—about half an inch—to get that perfect crispy exterior without losing the creamy interior. I’ve paired it with an array of colorful vegetables, and the combination of textures is simply irresistible.

Another tip I picked up over the years is to marinate the vegetables briefly before grilling. A splash of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt enhances their sweetness and allows them to caramelize beautifully on the grill. Trust me, this small step makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously crispy texture of grilled halloumi
Vibrant colors and flavors from the mixed vegetables
Quick and easy dish perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Grilling Technique

Grilling halloumi can be tricky, but the key lies in the heat level. Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high temperature—around 400°F (200°C)—before placing the cheese on it. This allows the halloumi to develop a crisp exterior while maintaining its creamy interior. If your cheese starts to stick, a quick brush of olive oil can help, ensuring it comes off easily without losing that delightful golden color.

When grilling the vegetables, arrange them in a single layer on the grill for even cooking. Depending on your grill's heat distribution, you may need to adjust their positions to avoid burning. You should look for a perfect char; the ideal texture is tender with just enough bite. Aim for those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Ingredient Insights

Halloumi cheese is a unique ingredient that holds its shape when grilled, thanks to its high melting point. This characteristic makes it a star in this dish, providing a satisfying chew that balances the dish's texture. If you're looking for an alternative, look for Queso Blanco or Paneer, as they share similar properties and can be grilled effectively, although there may be slight flavor differences.

The medley of vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions—serves not only for color but also for flavor layering. Zucchini adds a subtle nuttiness when grilled, while bell peppers provide sweetness and acidity. To mix things up, consider adding asparagus or cherry tomatoes, which also grill wonderfully, contributing to a varied texture and flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful grilled halloumi dish:

Ingredients

250g halloumi cheese, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, cut into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before grilling for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make grilled halloumi with vegetables:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced vegetables and toss to coat them well. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot before adding the halloumi and vegetables.

Grill the Vegetables

Place the marinated vegetables on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.

Grill the Halloumi

After grilling the vegetables, add the halloumi slices directly onto the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove the halloumi and vegetables from the grill. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your grilled halloumi with a side salad or as a delicious addition to a wrap!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try sprinkling some chili flakes on the vegetables before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve your grilled halloumi and vegetables on a large platter. I love to drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for added flavor and visual excitement. This dish pairs well with quinoa or couscous, making it a hearty addition to any meal, whether it's a family dinner or a barbecue with friends.

To elevate your meal further, consider adding a side of tzatziki or a yogurt-based sauce. The creaminess of the sauce complements the crispy halloumi perfectly, adding another layer of flavor while also cooling down the heat of the grilled vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, preparing grilled halloumi and vegetables ahead of time is easy. You can marinate the vegetables a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking. I like to slice the halloumi just prior to cooking to keep it fresh and juicy.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat rather than microwaving, as this helps to retain the texture of both the halloumi and vegetables, avoiding that soggy outcome.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute halloumi with other grilling cheeses like queso blanco or paneer.

→ What vegetables work best for grilling?

Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus grill well and complement halloumi nicely.

→ Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the vegetables a few hours in advance for extra flavor.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, grilled halloumi with vegetables is a vegetarian-friendly meal that's full of flavor.