5 Star Vegetarian Recipes With Halloumi for Every Meal

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful vegetarian dishes, then halloumi cheese is about to become your new best friend. Known for its firm texture and incredible ability to hold shape when grilled or fried, halloumi adds a delightful savory bite to any meal.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your everyday dining, these 5-star vegetarian recipes featuring halloumi promise to impress both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

From refreshing salads to comforting mains, halloumi provides a versatile canvas for a wide range of flavors and cuisines.

In this blog post, we’ll explore five exquisite vegetarian recipes that showcase halloumi’s unique qualities. Each recipe has been crafted with love, incorporating fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques to bring out the best in this beloved cheese.

Ready to treat your taste buds? Let’s dive into these delicious creations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Halloumi’s firm, chewy texture and salty bite make it a perfect protein substitute in vegetarian dishes. It grills beautifully without melting away, offering a satisfying contrast to fresh vegetables and herbs.

These recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them ideal for a balanced and wholesome meal.

Additionally, halloumi pairs well with a variety of ingredients—zesty citrus, smoky spices, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts, to name a few. This versatility allows you to enjoy a range of flavor profiles, from Mediterranean-inspired bowls to spicy grilled skewers.

Plus, these recipes are simple enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to serve guests.

Ingredients

Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Salad

• 200g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
• 2 cups watermelon cubes
• 1 handful fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Skewers

• 250g halloumi cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced thickly
• 1 red onion, quartered
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Halloumi and Chickpea Curry

• 200g halloumi cheese, cubed
• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 400ml coconut milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh coriander, to garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked basmati rice, to serve

Halloumi and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

• 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 150g halloumi cheese, grated
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Halloumi and Pomegranate Grain Bowl

• 200g halloumi cheese, sliced and grilled
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• Handful fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden or metal skewers (for skewers recipe)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or tongs
• Baking tray (for mushrooms)
• Large saucepan (for curry)

Instructions

Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Salad

1. Preheat your grill pan on medium heat.
2. Brush halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes each side until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes and mint leaves.
4. Drizzle with lime juice and a little olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the grilled halloumi on top and serve immediately for a refreshing starter or light lunch.

Halloumi and Roasted Vegetable Skewers

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Thread halloumi cubes and vegetables alternately onto soaked skewers.
3. Mix olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Brush the skewers generously with the spice mixture.
5. Place on a baking tray and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning once until vegetables are tender and halloumi is golden.
6. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki or flatbread.

Halloumi and Chickpea Curry

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and translucent.
3. Add curry powder and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, pan-fry halloumi cubes until golden on all sides.
6. Add halloumi to the curry and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh coriander.
8. Serve with steamed basmati rice for a comforting meal.

Halloumi and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in grated halloumi.
4. Place mushrooms on a baking tray, gill side up.
5. Spoon the halloumi and spinach mixture into each mushroom cap.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
7. Bake for 20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and topping is golden.
8. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Halloumi and Pomegranate Grain Bowl

1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Grill halloumi slices in a hot pan until golden on both sides.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, pomegranate seeds, toasted pine nuts, and parsley.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss gently.
5. Top the bowl with grilled halloumi slices.
6. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately for a nutritious and vibrant meal.

Tips & Variations

Halloumi is best when cooked over medium heat to prevent it from becoming rubbery. Avoid high heat to keep it tender and flavorful.

For added flavor, try marinating halloumi slices in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling. You can also experiment with different spice blends such as za’atar or chili flakes for a kick.

Substitute the vegetables in the skewers with seasonal produce like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant. For a vegan alternative, replace halloumi with firm tofu or tempeh, although the texture will differ.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our vibrant Zucchini Peppers Onions Tomatoes Recipe for another fresh, veggie-packed option.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These halloumi dishes pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as mixed green salads, tzatziki, or flatbreads like pita or naan. You can also complement them with roasted potatoes or a simple couscous salad for a heartier meal.

For a refreshing beverage to accompany your meal, consider trying a fruity iced tea or a sparkling lemonade. If you’re planning a brunch, the grilled halloumi and watermelon salad makes a perfect starter alongside our delightful Breakfast Wellington Recipe.

Conclusion

Halloumi cheese is a superstar ingredient for anyone seeking delicious vegetarian meals that don’t compromise on taste or texture. These five recipes highlight its versatility and ability to transform simple ingredients into memorable dishes.

Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simmering it in a curry, halloumi adds a wonderful savory depth that elevates every bite.

By incorporating fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and wholesome grains, these recipes not only satisfy your hunger but also nourish your body. Give these dishes a try and discover new favorites that will impress family and friends alike.

For more recipe ideas, be sure to explore our site, including our savory Bread And Gravy Recipe and our flavorful Blackstone Asparagus Recipe. Happy cooking!

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