5 from 27 votes
How to Cook Halloumi Cheese
This recipe guides you through preparing halloumi cheese slices by pan-searing them until golden brown. The cheese is cut into half-inch slices or cubes, lightly oiled, and cooked on medium-high heat to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a slightly squeaky, soft interior. It is seasoned simply with optional lemon juice, herbs, and black pepper, highlighting halloumi's naturally salty flavor. This method is ideal for serving halloumi as a savory appetizer or adding it to salads and grilled dishes.
Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
4 mins
Servings:
2
servings
Calories:
374 kcal
Course:
Dinner
Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 7 ounces halloumi cheese
- 1-2 Tablespoons neutral oil or olive oil
Instructions
- Remove the block of halloumi from the package and pat dry with paper towels. Cut the block into slices either lengthwise or on the short end, depending on how you'll use it. I prefer about 1/2-inch slices. You can also dice it into large cubes. Remember, thinner slices will cook faster.
- Brush both sides of the slices with oil until coated. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan (or grill) over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan or grates, I also like to brush oil on the grates.
- Place the slices evenly across the pan. Sear until golden brown, around 1-2 minutes, then flip and sear the second side, again until golden brown, around 1-2 minutes. Some liquid may sizzle out of the slices; it will quickly evaporate and then the side will turn golden.
- Remove from the pan and serve immediately. Excellent garnished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, herbs, and black pepper. Remember, there is no need for salt as this cheese is already quite salty.
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Pat halloumi dry before slicing to reduce moisture and help with browning.
- Slice thickness affects cooking time; thinner slices cook faster but may be less chewy.
- Use a neutral or olive oil to lightly coat both sides for even sear and prevent sticking.
- Serve halloumi immediately after cooking to enjoy optimal texture.
Nutrition Information
Calories
374kcal
(19%)
Carbohydrates
1g
(0%)
Protein
22g
(44%)
Fat
31g
(48%)
Saturated Fat
18g
(90%)
Polyunsaturated Fat
1g
(6%)
Monounsaturated Fat
11g
(55%)
Sodium
1191mg
(50%)
Potassium
0.1mg
(0%)
Fiber
0.1g
(0%)
Sugar
0.5g
(1%)
Calcium
992mg
(99%)
Iron
0.04mg
(0%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 2 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 374
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 374kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Fat | 31g | 48% |
| Saturated Fat | 18g | 90% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Sodium | 1191mg | 50% |
| Potassium | 0.1mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 0.5g | 1% |
| Calcium | 992mg | 99% |
| Iron | 0.04mg | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.