Mediterranean Greek Halloumi Mezze Platter with Lemon Drizzle
Halloumi cheese makes this mezze platter irresistible with its golden crust and salty bite. Paired with fresh vegetables, creamy dips, warm pita, and a zesty lemon drizzle, this spread is simple, vibrant, and perfect for sharing. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a light meal, an appetizer board, or even the centerpiece for a Mediterranean-style gathering.
Time:
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Platter Ingredients:
8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
1 cup hummus
1 cup tzatziki
4 pita breads, warmed and cut into wedges
Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
Lemon Drizzle Ingredients:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Lemon Drizzle:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.
Cook the Halloumi:
Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the halloumi slices (no oil needed, as the cheese naturally releases some moisture).
Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and lightly crisped. Remove from pan.
Warm the Pita:
Heat pita breads in a dry skillet, oven, or over an open flame until warm and slightly toasted. Cut into wedges.
Assemble the Platter:
Arrange the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, roasted red peppers, hummus, and tzatziki on a large platter or board.
Add the warm halloumi slices.
Place pita wedges around the edges.
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle the lemon dressing over the halloumi and vegetables.
Garnish with fresh parsley or mint.
Serve immediately while the halloumi is warm.
Tips
Cook halloumi right before serving: It tastes best hot and crispy. If it cools, reheat in a skillet for a minute or two.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook halloumi in batches if needed so it browns evenly.
Balance the flavors: Halloumi is salty, so the lemon drizzle and fresh veggies help cut through its richness.
Warm dips slightly: If using hummus straight from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for better texture.
Serve family-style: Use a large board or platter so guests can help themselves and build their own pita bites.
Variations
Dips: Add baba ghanoush, muhammara, or whipped feta alongside hummus and tzatziki for more variety.
Extra veggies: Include roasted zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts for a heartier spread.
Vegan-friendly swap: Replace halloumi with marinated and grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Sweet touch: Scatter fresh figs, grapes, or pomegranate seeds on the platter for a pop of sweetness.
Herb upgrades: Fresh dill, oregano, or basil can be used instead of parsley or mint.
Bread options: Swap pita for flatbread, lavash, or even crusty sourdough for a rustic twist.
Q&A
Can I make this platter ahead of time?
Most of the platter can be prepared in advance, such as chopping vegetables, making the lemon drizzle, and warming pita. Cook the halloumi just before serving so it stays crisp and warm.
Do I need to oil the pan for halloumi?
No. Halloumi cooks best in a dry nonstick or lightly greased pan, as it naturally releases moisture while browning.
Can I serve this cold?
The vegetables, dips, and bread can be served cold or room temperature, but halloumi should ideally be served hot or warm for the best texture.
What can I serve with this platter?
It works as a light meal or appetizer on its own, but you can add tabbouleh, roasted potatoes, or a simple Greek salad if serving as the main course.
Is this platter vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi is made with dairy but no meat. For a vegan version, swap halloumi with grilled tofu or crispy chickpeas and use dairy-free dips.
Nutrition
(per serving, serves 4)
Calories: ~460
Protein: ~20 g
Fat: ~28 g
Carbohydrates: ~32 g
Fiber: ~5 g
Sugar: ~8 g
(Values will vary depending on portion sizes, pita type, and amount of dips used.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Greek Halloumi Mezze Platter with Lemon Drizzle is a vibrant, versatile dish that brings together salty, creamy, fresh, and zesty flavors in one spread. It’s easy to assemble, fun to share, and adaptable for different tastes and diets. Perfect as a light meal, appetizer board, or centerpiece for gatherings, this platter captures the essence of Mediterranean dining—fresh, colorful, and full of balance.