Golden Halloumi with Honey & Thyme
Description:
Golden Halloumi with Honey & Thyme is a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The halloumi is pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside with a soft, chewy center. Drizzled with warm honey infused with fragrant thyme, it becomes a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s quick to prepare yet impressively flavorful.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Optional garnish: lemon zest or chili flakes
Instructions:
Prepare the Halloumi:
Pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture (helps with browning).
Fry the Halloumi:
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
Add the halloumi slices and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Make the Honey-Thyme Glaze:
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the honey with the thyme. Stir and heat just until the honey is runny and aromatic (about 30 seconds in the microwave or 1–2 minutes on the stove).
Assemble:
Arrange the golden halloumi on a serving plate. Drizzle the warm honey-thyme mixture over the top.
Garnish & Serve:
Add a crack of black pepper. Optionally garnish with lemon zest or chili flakes for contrast.
Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and gooey inside.
Serving Suggestions:
As an appetizer with crusty bread
On a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and pita
Over a salad with arugula, pomegranate, and walnuts
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Estimated for 2 servings from 200g halloumi and 2 tbsp honey)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~320 kcal
Protein 18g
Total Fat 23g
Saturated Fat 11g
Carbohydrates 12g
Sugar 11g
Fiber <1g
Sodium ~700mg
Calcium ~600mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
A: Yes! Use about half the amount (½ tsp dried thyme) since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
A: Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway. But pan-frying gives a crispier texture.
Q: Is there a vegan alternative to halloumi?
A: Yes, vegan halloumi-style cheeses made from coconut oil or tofu are available and work well in this dish.
Q: What honey alternatives can I use?
A: Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used, though they have different flavor notes.
Q: How do I keep halloumi from becoming rubbery?
A: Avoid overcooking and serve immediately. Halloumi gets tougher the longer it sits after cooking.