These Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a treat! With yummy pieces of golden halloumi, fresh lemon, and fragrant thyme, they make a great snack or side dish.
They’re quick to make and fun to eat! I love how the cheese gets crispy on the outside and soft inside. Perfect for a summer BBQ or just a night in with friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halloumi Cheese: This cheese is key for this recipe as it holds its shape when grilled. If you can’t find halloumi, feel free to use a firm cheese like feta or queso blanco. They won’t have the same texture but will still taste great.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for the marinade, but any neutral oil will work if you want a lighter flavor. Avocado oil is a nice alternative too!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness. If you’re out of lemons, lime works as a substitute or try vinegar for a different zing.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a nice aroma, but dried thyme works too. I often use Italian seasoning when I don’t have thyme on hand. Just be mindful to use less since it’s more concentrated.
Red Chili Flakes: These add a bit of spice! If you prefer less heat, omit them or use a pinch of black pepper instead.
How Do I Grill Halloumi Perfectly?
Grilling halloumi can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! First, make sure the grill is hot before putting on the skewers. This helps form a nice crust that prevents sticking.
- Mix the marinade well and brush it generously on all sides of the halloumi.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Look for nice grill marks and a slightly softened texture as signs they’re ready.
Don’t forget to drizzle with more lemon juice before serving! It adds a fresh kick that enhances all the flavors.
Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 250g halloumi cheese, cut into thick slices or chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes for preparation and another 6-8 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious skewers in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by preparing your marinade. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, and zest, along with the thyme (fresh or dried), minced garlic if you’re using it, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well to combine all the flavors!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
Take those beautiful halloumi slices or chunks and thread them onto your skewers. You can fit about 3-4 pieces per skewer, depending on their size. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking!
3. Coat the Halloumi:
Using a brush or spoon, take your delicious marinade and coat the halloumi skewers generously on all sides. This will help the cheese develop a wonderful flavor while grilling.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill pan or outdoor grill nice and hot by preheating it on medium-high heat. If it’s hot enough, the halloumi won’t stick, and you’ll get those lovely grill marks!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for gorgeous grill marks and a slightly golden, softened texture.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once they’re perfectly grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with a little extra olive oil along with a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that delightful zing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or coriander for a lovely touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious skewers immediately as a tasty snack, a fun appetizer, or as a part of your meal. Enjoy the bright, savory flavors that everyone will love!
This recipe showcases the delightful, salty texture of grilled halloumi, beautifully complemented by the brightness of lemon and the aroma of fresh thyme, with just a bit of heat from the chili flakes. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cheese Instead of Halloumi?
Yes, you can substitute halloumi with other firm cheeses like feta or queso blanco. They won’t maintain the exact same texture when grilled, but they will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through—this will help maintain their texture.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to the Skewers?
Feel free to add a variety of vegetables to your skewers! Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onion work wonderfully alongside the halloumi. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
