Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the rich, savory taste of halloumi cheese with the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and lime, complemented by a spicy kick from chili flakes. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish, this quick recipe will impress your guests with its bold and balanced flavors.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
Directions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Slice the halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, lime juice, and chili flakes.
- Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with the honey-lime mixture.
- Grill the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the cheese is golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations:
- Add herbs: You can enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to the honey-lime glaze.
- Try different cheese: If halloumi is not available, you can substitute it with other grilling cheeses like queso blanco or paneer.
- Make it sweeter: Adjust the honey to suit your sweetness preference, adding more for a sweeter flavor.
Storage and Reheating:
Grilled halloumi is best served fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet for a few minutes to warm them through.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill? Yes, a grill pan works just as well. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions.
- Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the honey, lime, and chili mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- What if I don’t like spicy food? You can omit the chili flakes or use a milder chili powder for a less spicy version.
- Can I serve this with something else? This grilled halloumi pairs wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, or pita bread.
- Is halloumi cheese suitable for vegetarians? Yes, halloumi is a vegetarian cheese, made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, but check the label if you are looking for one that is certified vegetarian.
- Can I use lemon instead of lime? Yes, lemon juice can be substituted for lime juice to create a slightly different, but equally refreshing flavor.
- Can I grill the halloumi without the glaze? Yes, the halloumi can be grilled without the glaze, though the glaze adds a unique and delicious flavor.
- What is halloumi cheese? Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese that originates from Cyprus. It has a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling or frying.
- Can I serve this dish as a main course? Grilled halloumi can work as a light main course, especially when paired with salads or grains like quinoa or couscous.
- Can I use other types of cheese? While halloumi is ideal for grilling, you can try grilling other firm cheeses like paneer or kasseri, though they may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Conclusion:
This Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze is a delightful, quick dish that offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer, side dish, or a light meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The versatility of halloumi cheese, combined with the zesty and sweet glaze, makes this a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to prepare and enjoy.