Grilled Zucchini Salad with Halloumi, Tahini & Mint
This Grilled Zucchini Salad with Halloumi, Tahini & Mint is a light yet satisfying Mediterranean dish that balances smoky grilled vegetables, salty golden halloumi, and a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. Fresh mint adds brightness, making it perfect as a summer salad, healthy lunch, or elegant side dish. It’s vegetarian, protein-rich, and naturally gluten-free.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Salad
3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into strips
200 g halloumi cheese, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
For the Tahini Dressing
¼ cup tahini
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, finely grated
2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
For Garnish
¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
1–2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Zucchini
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Toss zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until tender with nice char marks.
Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Grill the Halloumi
Lightly oil the same grill pan.
Grill halloumi slices for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Remove carefully (halloumi softens when hot).
Step 3: Prepare the Tahini Dressing
In a bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
Slowly add warm water until smooth and pourable.
Season with salt to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Arrange grilled zucchini on a serving platter.
Top with warm grilled halloumi.
Drizzle generously with tahini dressing.
Finish with fresh mint and nuts/seeds if using.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcook halloumi — it should be golden outside and soft inside.
If tahini thickens too much, just whisk in more warm water.
For extra freshness, add a handful of arugula or baby spinach underneath.
This salad tastes great warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Grill zucchini and prepare dressing in advance. Grill halloumi just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I replace halloumi?
You can use grilled feta slabs or pan-fried paneer as alternatives.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
Not as written, but you can replace halloumi with grilled tofu or chickpeas to make it vegan.
Q: What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or warm pita bread.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 4 g
Calcium: High