Sweet & Savory Air-Fried Halloumi Description:
This Sweet and Savory Air-Fried Halloumi is the perfect blend of salty, crispy cheese with a hint of natural sweetness and spice. Halloumi’s firm texture makes it ideal for air frying—it becomes golden and crisp on the outside while staying soft and chewy on the inside. Drizzled with a sticky honey-balsamic glaze and served with fresh herbs or fruit, it makes an irresistible appetizer or side.
Ingredients: (Serves 2–3)
200g Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for a kick)
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Fresh black pepper, to taste
Optional topping: pomegranate seeds, toasted sesame, or fresh mint
Instructions:
Preheat Air Fryer:
Set to 200°C (390°F) for 2–3 minutes.
Prep Halloumi:
Pat the halloumi slices dry with paper towels. Toss gently with olive oil, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
Air Fry:
Arrange the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Make Glaze:
While the halloumi cooks, in a small pan over low heat, warm the honey and balsamic vinegar together. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in thyme.
Serve:
Drizzle warm glaze over the crispy halloumi slices. Garnish with pomegranate seeds or mint for a burst of freshness.
Time Breakdown:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 3):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~230 kcal
Protein 12g
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 9g
Carbohydrates 7g
Sugars 5g
Fiber <1g
Sodium 700mg
Calcium ~25% DV
Note: Values may vary slightly depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this without an air fryer?
A: Yes! You can pan-fry the halloumi in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Q: What fruits pair well with this dish?
A: Try fresh figs, watermelon, grapes, or pears for a refreshing contrast.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can air-fry the halloumi and reheat it briefly before serving. Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 2–3 minutes.
Q: Is there a vegan version?
A: Yes! Use a vegan halloumi-style cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure to air fry in batches so the halloumi slices aren’t overcrowded.