Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Greek-Inspired Marinade
These skewers bring together the salty, creamy texture of halloumi cheese with a zesty, herb-packed Greek marinade. Grilled to perfection, they’re ideal for appetizers, mezze platters, or as a light summer meal.
Total time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (up to 2 hours)
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers (2 per person as appetizer)
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
250g halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 small red onion, cut into chunks
1 small zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
8–10 cherry tomatoes
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Greek-Inspired Marinade:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Prep the marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the ingredients:
Add the cubed halloumi and vegetables to a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over, gently toss to coat, and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Assemble the skewers:
Thread the marinated halloumi, peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating for color and texture.
4. Grill the skewers:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the halloumi is golden and slightly charred, and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve:
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or tzatziki on the side.
Tips
- Do not over-marinate halloumi, or it may become too soft. 30 minutes is usually enough.
- High-quality halloumi is key—it should be firm and hold up to grilling.
- For extra flavor, brush skewers with leftover marinade while grilling (if it hasn’t touched raw ingredients).
Serving Ideas
Serve over a bed of lemon-herb couscous or orzo salad.
Pair with pita bread and dips like tzatziki, hummus, or baba ganoush.
Add to a mezze platter with olives, dolmas, and roasted eggplant.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Yes! You can marinate and assemble the skewers up to a day ahead. Grill just before serving.
Q: Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning once, or broil for a charred effect.
Q: Is halloumi vegetarian?
Most halloumi is vegetarian, but check the label for non-animal rennet if strict vegetarian.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280
Protein: 15g
Fat: 21g
Carbs: 8g
Fiber: 2g