Cypriot-Style Grilled Halloumi with Lemon and Oregano
Thick slices of halloumi cheese grilled to golden perfection, drizzled with fresh lemon juice and sprinkled with dried oregano. A simple yet iconic Cypriot appetizer.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Halloumi cheese(sliced into 1cm thick pieces)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves(chopped, for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the halloumi slices dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
💡 Tip: Drying the cheese is crucial for browning. - 2
Heat the olive oil in a grill pan or on an outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pan or grill is hot before adding the cheese. - 3
Place the halloumi slices on the hot grill pan. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly softened.
💡 Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan; grill in batches if necessary. - 4
Remove the grilled halloumi from the pan and arrange on a serving platter.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately while warm. - 5
Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle generously with dried oregano.
💡 Tip: The combination of lemon and oregano is classic. - 6
Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
💡 Tip: Mint adds a refreshing contrast.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Halloumi can be served as an appetizer or as part of a meze platter.
- ✓If you don't have a grill pan, a non-stick skillet works well.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve with a side of sliced tomatoes and cucumbers.