Introduction
Bold, golden, and beautifully crispy—grilled Halloumi cheese is a Greek favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. The Arteflame grill’s flat cooktop provides an even sear, ensuring incredible texture without burning. A drizzle of butter instead of olive oil enhances the flavor, making this dish irresistibly rich and savory. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, this simple recipe delivers authentic Mediterranean flavors in minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- Optional: honey for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
- Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
- Wait about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Halloumi
- Slice the Halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Brush each slice with melted butter, ensuring even coating.
Step 3: Grill the Halloumi
- Place the slices on the hotter part of the flat top griddle near the center.
- Grill for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Move the grilled slices to a cooler section of the griddle to keep warm before serving.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Drizzle the grilled Halloumi with fresh lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with chopped oregano and fresh black pepper.
- Optionally, drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
- Halloumi retains its texture well but can dry out if overcooked—grill just until golden.
- Use high-quality butter for extra rich flavor.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- If Halloumi is too salty, soak it in water for 10 minutes before grilling.
Variations
-
Spicy Halloumi: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a fiery kick.
-
Lemon Herb Halloumi: Add fresh rosemary and thyme along with the oregano.
-
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle with honey and toasted sesame seeds for a balanced taste.
-
Garlic Butter: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter before brushing on the cheese.
-
Greek Salad Style: Serve over chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a fresh side dish.
Best Pairings
- Grilled lamb or chicken for a full Greek-inspired meal.
- A crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Fresh pita bread with hummus or tzatziki.
- Charred vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a Mediterranean feast.
Conclusion
Grilled Halloumi on the Arteflame grill is a simple yet exquisite way to enjoy authentic Greek flavors. The flat cooktop provides perfect searing without burning, resulting in crispy, golden cheese with a deliciously rich and savory taste. Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or elevate it with one of the variations for a twist on the classic.