Mediterranean Halloumi & Zucchini Skewers with Tomato Panzanella Salad
Grilled halloumi and zucchini skewers paired with a refreshing tomato panzanella salad. Juicy, smoky, and tangy, with a crunchy bread base — perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or entertaining.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Halloumi & Zucchini Skewers
200g halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Wooden skewers (soaked in water 10 mins if grilling)
For the Tomato Panzanella Salad
2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes diced)
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup stale bread cubes (or lightly toasted)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
6–8 fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
1. Prepare Skewers
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Toss halloumi and zucchini in olive oil, oregano, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Thread halloumi and zucchini alternately onto skewers.
4. Grill 2–3 minutes per side, until halloumi is golden and zucchini has grill marks.
2. Make Panzanella Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion.
2. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper; pour over salad.
3. Gently toss to coat. Let sit 5–10 minutes to allow bread to absorb flavors.
4. Add torn basil before serving.
3. Serve
Place skewers on plates.
Serve alongside tomato panzanella salad.
Optional: drizzle extra olive oil or balsamic reduction for garnish.
Notes & Tips
Halloumi: Avoid overcooking — it becomes rubbery if grilled too long.
Bread: Day-old or lightly toasted works best for panzanella.
Add veggies: Cherry peppers or roasted red peppers enhance color and flavor.
Make it vegan: Use firm tofu instead of halloumi.
Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make skewers in the oven?
Yes — broil at 200°C for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Can I prepare salad ahead?
Yes — make 30 minutes ahead; add basil just before serving to keep fresh.
Q: Can I serve this as a bowl?
Absolutely — layer salad as base and place skewers on top for a Mediterranean bowl.
Nutrition information
Calories: 380
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g