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Fresh Watermelon Slices with Crispy Grilled Halloumi Cheese

watermelon slices with grilled halloumi - featured image

A quick and easy summer snack combining sweet, juicy watermelon slices with crispy, salty grilled halloumi cheese for a refreshing and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600g) seedless fresh watermelon, cut into thick slices or wedges
  • 8 ounces (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced about 1/3 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for brushing
  • Small handful fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of sea salt or flaky salt, for finishing
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the watermelon. Cut into thick slices or wedges about 1/2 inch thick (roughly 4 cups or 600g total). Pat dry any excess juice with paper towels to avoid watery plating. Set aside in the fridge to keep chilled.
  2. Remove halloumi from packaging and drain any excess brine. Slice into 1/3-inch (about 0.8 cm) thick pieces. Lightly pat dry with a paper towel to reduce splattering during grilling.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot but not smoking.
  4. Lightly brush each side of the halloumi slices with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage browning.
  5. Place slices on the hot grill or pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy edges form. Flip gently with tongs or spatula.
  6. Lay chilled watermelon slices on a serving platter. Place grilled halloumi over or alongside the watermelon.
  7. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top. Add chopped fresh mint leaves for freshness. Optionally, serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over just before eating.

Notes

Pat halloumi dry before grilling to avoid splattering and sticking. Use medium-high heat to get a crispy crust without melting the cheese. Pat watermelon dry to prevent watery plating. Grill halloumi just before serving to keep it crispy. For vegan option, substitute halloumi with firm tofu marinated in lemon and smoked paprika.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon, halloumi, grilled cheese, summer snack, easy recipe, quick snack, vegetarian, gluten-free