Why You’ll Love This
Grilled Halloumi and Peach Salad is a beautiful combination of sweet, salty, and fresh flavors. The warm, golden slices of grilled halloumi cheese pair perfectly with juicy peaches and crisp greens. A light vinaigrette ties everything together, creating a refreshing and elegant salad that’s perfect for summer lunches, light dinners, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
● 8 oz (225 g) halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch pieces
● 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
● 4 cups arugula or mixed salad greens
● 2 tablespoons olive oil
● 1 tablespoon honey
● 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
● ¼ teaspoon salt
● ¼ teaspoon black pepper
● ¼ cup toasted almonds or pistachios
● 2 tablespoons fresh basil or mint leaves, torn
Preparation Instructions
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Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. -
Prepare the Halloumi
Slice the halloumi cheese into thick slices so it holds its shape during grilling. -
Grill the Halloumi
Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and place them on the grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden grill marks appear. -
Grill the Peaches
Place peach wedges on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened and lightly charred. -
Prepare the Salad Base
Arrange the arugula or mixed greens on a large serving platter or bowl. -
Add the Grilled Ingredients
Place the grilled halloumi slices and grilled peach wedges on top of the greens. -
Add Crunch and Herbs
Sprinkle toasted almonds or pistachios and fresh basil or mint leaves over the salad. -
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. -
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. -
Serve Immediately
Serve while the halloumi and peaches are still slightly warm.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Grill or grill pan
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Knife and cutting board
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Small mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Serving platter or salad bowl
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Tongs
Tips
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Use firm peaches: Slightly firm peaches hold their shape better when grilled.
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Don’t overcook halloumi: It should be golden on the outside but still soft inside.
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Toast the nuts: Toasting enhances their flavor and adds crunch.
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Add protein: Grilled chicken or prosciutto can make the salad more filling.
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Extra sweetness: A drizzle of extra honey or balsamic glaze adds more depth.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread or focaccia.
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Pair with grilled chicken or seafood.
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Add as part of a summer brunch or picnic spread.
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Enjoy with sparkling water, rosé, or chilled white wine.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
Freezer:
Freezing is not recommended because the texture of halloumi and peaches will change.
Reheating:
If desired, lightly warm the halloumi in a skillet before serving again.
FAQs
1. What is halloumi cheese?
Halloumi is a semi-firm cheese that doesn’t melt when heated, making it perfect for grilling or frying.
2. Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?
Yes. Nectarines grill well and have a similar sweet flavor.
3. What greens work best for this salad?
Arugula, baby spinach, or mixed spring greens all pair nicely with the sweet and salty flavors.
Conclusion
Grilled Halloumi and Peach Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together sweet fruit, savory cheese, and fresh greens. With its beautiful presentation and balanced flavors, it’s an easy yet impressive salad perfect for warm-weather meals and gatherings.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 310 kcal
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Protein: 14 g
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Carbohydrates: 18 g
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Fat: 20 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sodium: 520 mg
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used. 🍑🧀🌿
