Name: Crispy Halloumi Salad: A Flavorful Summer Celebration
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Halloumi (can be substituted with feta or paneer); 4 cups Spring Greens (feel free to mix in seasonal herbs); 1 cup Cucumbers (can use pickling cucumbers for extra zing); 4 pcs Radishes (substitute with sliced bell peppers for milder taste); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 tbsp Shallots (can use red onion for a stronger flavor); 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar (apple cider vinegar is a sweeter alternative); 1 tbsp Honey or Maple Syrup (optional for lower sugar option)

Stepping into my kitchen on a warm summer day, I can almost taste the sunlit flavors waiting to be blended in my bowl. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad, a dish that harmonizes salty, crunchy halloumi with a vibrant array of fresh vegetables. This salad not only comes together in a mere 30 minutes, making it a breeze for busy days, but it also packs a healthy punch with high protein content, perfect for those seeking a satisfying vegetarian option. The combination of textures and tang creates an irresistible summer delight that will leave you craving more. Are you ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into this quick, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why try this Crispy Halloumi Salad?

Simplicity: This salad requires minimal prep time and ingredients, making it a wonderfully accessible dish for busy cooks.

Flavor Explosion: The salty halloumi melds beautifully with fresh vegetables, creating a mouthwatering experience that bursts with summer in every bite.

High-Protein: Loaded with protein from the halloumi, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Versatile: Make it your own by adding fruits or nuts for added texture, or substitute with different cheeses for a unique twist; it’s truly customizable!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a picnic or a side dish alongside grilled meats, this salad is sure to impress family and friends, just like my refreshing Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing.

Crispy Halloumi Salad Ingredients

• This salad is filled with vibrant flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any occasion.

For the Salad

Halloumi – The star of the dish, this cheese adds a salty flavor and chewy texture; you can also use feta or paneer as a substitute.
Spring Greens – Fresh and crisp, these greens provide the perfect base; feel free to mix in any seasonal herbs you have on hand.
Cucumbers – These add a refreshing crunch to the salad; you can use pickling cucumbers for extra zing.
Radishes – Their crispness and peppery flavor elevate the taste; substitute with sliced bell peppers for a milder option.

For the Vinaigrette

Olive Oil – Essential for adding richness and crisping the halloumi; opt for extra virgin for the best flavor.
Shallots – They form the flavorful base of the vinaigrette, providing a mild onion taste; red onion can be used for a more assertive bite.
Red Wine Vinegar – This adds the necessary acidity to balance the richness; apple cider vinegar is a delightful alternative for a sweeter touch.
Honey or Maple Syrup – Sweetens the vinaigrette naturally; you can skip this for a lower-sugar option if desired.

Bring together these simple yet vibrant ingredients to craft your Crispy Halloumi Salad, a summer delight not to be missed!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Halloumi
Begin by tearing the halloumi into chunky pieces, approximately 1 to 2 inches in size, which will increase surface area for crisping. Place the torn halloumi chunks in a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil, making sure each piece is evenly coated to enhance flavor and promote browning during baking.

Step 2: Bake the Halloumi
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the halloumi pieces in a single layer on the sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and have a crispy exterior.

Step 3: Whisk the Vinaigrette
While the halloumi bakes, prepare the vinaigrette in a medium bowl. Whisk together finely chopped shallots, your choice of vinegar (like red wine or apple cider), and olive oil. Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, then mix until well combined. This tangy vinaigrette will perfectly complement your Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad.

Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine your washed and chopped spring greens, sliced cucumbers, and radishes. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the vegetables, using tongs or a spatula to gently toss everything together. Ensure all fresh ingredients are well coated with the vinaigrette, bringing vibrant flavors to every bite.

Step 5: Add the Halloumi
Once the halloumi is baked and cooled slightly (to retain its shape), gently add it to the salad mixture. Toss everything together with care to integrate the crispy halloumi without breaking it up too much. The halloumi will add a delightful crunch to your Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad, making it a satisfying main or side dish.

What to Serve with Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the vibrant flavors of this summer salad.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The smooth richness of avocado contrasts beautifully with crunchy halloumi, creating a decadent bite.
Grilled Pita Bread: Serve warm from the grill, it’s perfect for scooping up the salad or enjoying alongside its tangy vinaigrette.
Quinoa Pilaf: This hearty side adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, perfectly balancing the textures in your salad.
Herb-Infused Couscous: Light and fluffy, it brings aromatic flavors that tie seamlessly into the fresh vegetable medley of the salad.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the refreshing notes in your Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad.
Watermelon Feta Salad: The sweetness of watermelon paired with salty feta echoes the flavor profiles, making it a perfect companion.
Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness adds a hearty touch, beautifully contrasting with the salad’s fresh flavors and textures.

Make Ahead Options

If you’re looking to save time on busy nights, the Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the vinaigrette up to 3 days in advance, storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Additionally, the spring vegetables (like cucumbers and radishes) can be chopped ahead of time and stored separately for up to 24 hours to maintain their freshness. To maintain the halloumi’s crispy texture, bake the cheese just before serving. When ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the vinaigrette and add the baked halloumi for a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Halloumi Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the halloumi separate to maintain its crispiness until ready to serve.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze the entire salad as the vegetables may become soggy. If needed, freeze only the baked halloumi, wrapped tightly, for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy the halloumi again, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until warmed and crisp.

Serving Tip: Prepare the salad components ahead but add the halloumi just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious in your Crispy Halloumi Salad.

Crispy Halloumi Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to this Crispy Halloumi Salad for an even more delightful experience!

Nutty Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy halloumi and crispy veggies. The nutty flavor brings a whole new dimension to your salad!
Fruit Forward: Toss in fresh strawberries or sliced peaches for a sweet contrast; their juiciness balances the savory elements and transforms the salad into a summer classic.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with goat cheese for a tangy twist that pairs well with the fresh vegetables. Its creaminess adds a luxurious texture that will make each bite a delight.
Spicy Kick: For a generous kick of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This fiery addition will wake up your taste buds and add an exciting layer to your dish.
Herb Delight: Integrate fresh basil or mint into the mix for a burst of freshness. These herbs not only elevate the flavors but also bring an aromatic essence to the salad.
Grain Boost: Introduce quinoa or farro for extra oomph! These wholesome grains will increase the nutritional value and make the salad more filling, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Dressing Dazzle: Try a zesty citrus vinaigrette—think orange or lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor that adds extra vibrancy. This refreshing twist will elevate your salad and delight your palate.
Veggie Swap: Swap in seasonal vegetables like charred zucchini or roasted bell peppers for a smoky depth that complements the crispy halloumi perfectly. Seasonal options like these are a great way to keep things interesting!

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to serve your salad alongside some delicious sides like my refreshing Macaroni Salad or Springtime Citrus Salad to create an unforgettable meal experience.

Expert Tips for Crispy Halloumi Salad

Chunk Size Matters: Ensure halloumi is torn into uneven chunks for maximum crispy edges. Smaller pieces tend to dry out and lose texture.
Vinaigrette Adjustments: Experiment with vinegar and sweetener to find your ideal balance of tang and sweetness that perfectly complements the halloumi.
Fresh Herbs Boost Flavor: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint into the salad for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Serving Temperature: Serve immediately after adding the baked halloumi for the best texture. If packed for later, store halloumi separately until serving.
Customize with Confidence: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite seasonal vegetables or even fruits to enhance the crispy halloumi salad’s vibrant flavors and nutrition.

Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe vegetables for the salad?
Absolutely! For this salad, select vibrant spring greens, firm cucumbers without soft spots, and radishes that are bright and unblemished. Look for veggies that feel heavy for their size and have no discoloration. Fresh produce truly enhances the salad’s flavor and crunch!

How should I store leftover Crispy Halloumi Salad?
To preserve its freshness, store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the halloumi separate from the vegetables until you’re ready to enjoy it again, ensuring that the cheese remains crispy and the veggies stay crisp.

Can I freeze leftover halloumi?
Yes, you can! To freeze the baked halloumi, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed and crispy.

What should I do if the halloumi isn’t crispy?
If your halloumi lacks crunch, it might not have been exposed to enough heat or air during baking. To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure you’re using pieces that aren’t too small or too uniform in size. Also, ensure the oven is properly preheated and consider flipping the pieces halfway through the baking time for even cooking.

Is this salad suitable for those with dietary allergies?
While this Crispy Torn Halloumi Salad is vegetarian, it may not be suitable for vegans due to the halloumi cheese. For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute halloumi with a dairy-free cheese alternative that can endure baking, such as a vegan feta. Always double-check labels to ensure any substitutions align with your dietary needs.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Certainly! For convenience, you can prep all salad ingredients, including the vinaigrette, a day ahead. However, I recommend waiting to add the halloumi until just before serving to maintain its deliciously crispy texture. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for the best results.