These Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! With chewy halloumi cheese, fresh lemon, and fragrant thyme, they make a delicious starter or snack.
Grilling halloumi is a game changer—it’s like cheese magic on a stick! I love to serve these skewers at parties; they just disappear in a flash. Who can resist cheese, right? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halloumi Cheese: This cheese is the star of the dish. It’s firm and can withstand grilling without melting away. If you can’t find halloumi, you can substitute it with firm feta cheese, though the texture might be different.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor. You can swap it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, but the taste will be different.
Lemon: Fresh lemon is key for brightness. If you’re out of fresh lemons, you can use a teaspoon of lemon juice from a bottle, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aromatic touch. If you’re using dried thyme, reduce the amount to one teaspoon as dried herbs are stronger.
Garlic: While optional, minced garlic adds depth. You can skip it if you prefer a simpler taste or substitute with garlic powder (1/4 tsp).
How Do I Grill Halloumi Skewers Perfectly?
Grilling halloumi requires a bit of attention to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill well to ensure nice grill marks and a good sear.
- Use medium-high heat; too hot can burn the cheese before it softens.
- Let the skewers cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t rush it! This allows for a golden, crispy exterior.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking them helps prevent burning on the grill.
Enjoy the beautiful, smoky flavors and cheesy goodness of these skewers!
Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon & Thyme
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation, plus about 10 minutes for marinating and cooking, bringing the total to around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, perfect for a delicious snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything well—that’s your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Halloumi:
Gently add the halloumi cubes to the marinade. Carefully toss the cubes so they are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes; this helps the flavors soak into the cheese.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the halloumi is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill is key to getting those beautiful grill marks.
4. Skewer the Halloumi:
Take your marinated halloumi cubes and thread them onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each cube to allow for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the halloumi is golden brown and marked with those tasty grill lines. Keep an eye on them, as they can cook quickly!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving plate. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest!
Enjoy these warm, cheesy skewers as a delicious appetizer, light snack, or part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon & Thyme
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Halloumi?
While halloumi is ideal for grilling due to its firmness, you can try using firm feta or paneer. Keep in mind that the texture will differ, and they may not hold their shape as well on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Thyme?
If you don’t have thyme on hand, you can use Italian seasoning or oregano as an alternative. Both will provide a nice flavor, although the taste will be slightly different.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the halloumi cubes ahead of time, up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just thread them onto skewers and grill when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven for a few minutes.
