Delicious Grilled Halloumi Salad: Quick, Fresh & Protein-Packed

There’s something truly special about a salad that combines fresh, vibrant vegetables with the rich, salty goodness of halloumi cheese. This Grilled Halloumi Salad is exactly that—a Mediterranean-inspired delight that’s quick to prepare and packed with protein, making it a perfect fit for your easy weeknight dinners or high protein meals. The golden, crispy halloumi adds a chewy, satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and refreshing mixed greens. Toss it all in a bright lemon-olive oil dressing, and you have a dish that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.

Whether you’re following a keto meal plan, looking for budget-friendly recipes that don’t skimp on flavor, or just want a refreshing healthy comfort food option, this salad ticks all the boxes. It’s a quick family meal that works well for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty side alongside your favorite dishes. And with plenty of room for customization, it’s a versatile addition to your meal prep microwave lunches or healthy meal plans for two.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Halloumi cheese is a game-changer—its unique texture and salty flavor make every bite memorable.

This recipe is incredibly fast and easy, ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.

It strikes the perfect balance between fresh veggies and satisfying protein, making it a complete meal.

The zesty lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together with brightness and a touch of sweetness.

It’s highly adaptable to seasonal produce, grains, or extra proteins to suit your dietary goals.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Halloumi’s high melting point means it grills to golden perfection without melting away, delivering crispy edges and a tender center.

The contrast between the warm, savory cheese and the cool, crisp vegetables is wonderfully satisfying.

Fresh mint or parsley adds an aromatic herbal note that elevates the salad’s flavor profile.

A homemade dressing with fresh lemon juice and olive oil keeps the dish light, bright, and naturally gluten-free.

Easy to make with minimal ingredients, this salad fits seamlessly into high protein pre made meals or best dinner prep meals.

Ingredients

Save

• 7 oz (200g) halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
• 2 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, spring mix)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup pitted olives (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint or parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Preheat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready.

Brush the halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides to ensure they don’t stick and get a lovely golden crust.

Grill the cheese for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you see beautiful grill marks and the cheese turns crispy on the outside.

Meanwhile, combine the salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, and olives in a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to make a bright, tangy dressing.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the veggies.

Arrange the warm grilled halloumi on top, then sprinkle chopped fresh mint or parsley for an herbal finish.

Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast of warm, savory cheese and crisp, fresh salad.

Tips for Best Results

Make sure the grill pan is hot before adding halloumi to get those signature crispy edges.

Pat the halloumi dry with paper towels before grilling to reduce splattering and help with browning.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—grill the halloumi in batches if necessary for even cooking.

Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste: add more lemon for brightness or more honey for a sweeter touch.

Add fresh herbs generously—they add aroma and a refreshing contrast to the cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

If you can’t find halloumi, grilled feta or paneer make good alternatives with a similar texture.

Swap honey for maple syrup to make the recipe fully vegan if using a plant-based cheese.

For a more filling meal, add cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous to the salad for a high protein high carb low fat meal.

Include seasonal fruits like peaches, watermelon, or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.

Add chili flakes or drizzle with hot honey for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Save

Serve this salad as a light main course for lunch or dinner, paired with crusty bread or warm pita.

It’s perfect alongside low calorie chicken meal prep or grilled halal chicken for a complete protein meal plan.

Add as a refreshing side to Mediterranean dishes or healthy boxed meals.

Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant presentation.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

A chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé pairs wonderfully with the salad’s fresh flavors.

Sparkling water infused with mint or cucumber complements the herbal notes beautifully.

Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or eggplant to round out the meal.

A light quinoa pilaf or herbed couscous makes a perfect side.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Reheat grilled halloumi gently in a skillet for a minute or two before serving; avoid microwaving to prevent rubberiness.

Keep salad greens and vegetables separate from dressing to avoid wilting.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Prepare salad ingredients and dressing a day ahead and combine just before serving for freshness.

Grill halloumi shortly before mealtime or reheat briefly as needed.

Avoid freezing grilled halloumi as it affects texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking halloumi leads to rubbery texture—grill just until golden.

Adding dressing too early can cause salad greens to wilt.

Make sure to dry halloumi slices before grilling to prevent splatter.

Don’t skip fresh herbs—they brighten the whole dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Most commercially available halloumi is vegetarian, but always check the label for rennet source.

Can I grill halloumi outdoors?
Absolutely! It grills wonderfully on an outdoor barbecue.

What greens work best?
Mixed spring greens, arugula, baby spinach, and romaine are all excellent choices.

Can I add more protein?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions.

How do I prevent halloumi from sticking?
Brush cheese with olive oil and use a hot pan.

Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, especially if you omit grains or sweet dressings.

Can I prepare halloumi in advance?
Yes, grill ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Grill pan or non-stick skillet
Sharp knife and cutting board
Mixing bowls for salad and dressing
Whisk or fork
Measuring spoons

This Grilled Halloumi Salad is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for your best meal prep plans, high protein ready made meals, or healthy boxed meals. It’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal prep microwave lunches or healthy meal plans for two.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!