Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables

Name: Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g halloumi cheese, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (like thyme or oregano) for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables! The combination of smoky, grilled cheese and fresh, colorful veggies is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful burst of flavor, and it’s so quick to prepare. I enjoy serving this dish as a side at barbecues or as a light main course. It’s also a great way to incorporate more veggies into my diet while indulging in that distinct salty richness of halloumi. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to favorite!

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:45:36.564Z

When I first tried grilling halloumi, I was blown away by how its texture changes—crispy on the outside yet creamy within! I experimented with different vegetables, and the blend of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion brought out the best in the cheese. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs took this dish over the top. Now this is a staple in my summer meals!

I often suggest marinating the vegetables briefly before grilling to enhance their flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds complexity and balances the richness of the halloumi. I’ve found that letting them sit for just 10 minutes really makes a difference and elevates the whole dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously salty halloumi that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile recipe that works well as a side dish or a light main course

The Perfect Halloumi Technique

Grilling halloumi is an art in itself. To achieve that coveted crispy exterior without melting it into oblivion, ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat—around 350°F (175°C). When cooked properly, halloumi will develop a beautiful golden crust while maintaining its distinctive texture. I recommend using a grilling basket or grilling mat to prevent any sticking or losing slices to the flames. If you see the edges starting to puff up, it’s a sign that it’s cooking perfectly!

One common mistake is overcooking halloumi, which can turn it rubbery and chewy. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side until you see golden, crispy edges. If you're grilling other foods alongside, like vegetables, you can try pulling them off the grill slightly earlier; they should be tender and have those appealing char marks but not mushy.

Marinating and Grilling Vegetables

The marinating step is crucial for infusing the vegetables with flavor. Aim for at least 10 minutes of marination time, allowing the olive oil and balsamic vinegar to work their magic. If you're short on time, even a quick 5-minute toss will add some zest. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables: asparagus, mushrooms, or eggplant can also be delicious alternatives.

When grilling veggies, keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary. You want them to be beautifully tender yet still have a bit of bite. For a nice char effect, turn them every couple of minutes. If you notice the vegetables are cooking faster than the halloumi, try moving them to a cooler part of the grill or pulling them off early to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare Grilled Halloumi With Vegetables:

Ingredients

250g halloumi cheese, sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (like thyme or oregano) for garnish

Make sure to use firm halloumi for the best results during grilling.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to grill the halloumi and vegetables:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss everything to coat evenly and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Grill the Halloumi

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the halloumi slices and place them on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Grill the Vegetables

Place the marinated vegetables on the grill alongside the halloumi. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.

Serve

Once everything is grilled, arrange the halloumi and vegetables on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Enjoy this dish warm, and feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding spices like smoked paprika to the vegetables before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines as a fresh side at summer barbecues, but it can also be elevated to a light main course. Consider serving the grilled halloumi and vegetables over a bed of quinoa or couscous to create a hearty meal. A sprinkle of lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors wonderfully.

For a rustic touch, try serving the halloumi and vegetables on a wooden board, paired with crusty bread and a dollop of hummus. This way, your guests can help themselves for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store the halloumi and grilled vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating can be tricky with halloumi, as it doesn’t always hold up well. I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to warm it through without losing texture.

For a make-ahead option, you can grill the vegetables and keep them chilled until needed. Just reheat them while you grill the halloumi to keep everything fresh. Remember, the vegetables can also be enjoyed cold, making them a great addition to salads or wraps.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of cheese instead of halloumi?

While halloumi is the best for grilling, you can try using another grilling cheese like paneer. Just note that the flavor and texture will differ.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute halloumi with a firm plant-based cheese suitable for grilling, and ensure your vegetables are all vegan-friendly.

→ What vegetables work best with this recipe?

Feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy! Asparagus, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes are also excellent choices.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can marinate the vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to grill the halloumi just before serving for optimal taste and texture.