Grilled Halloumi with Watermelon Mint (Printable Version)

Savory grilled halloumi, watermelon, red onion and mint threaded on skewers for a bright summer starter.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Cheese & Produce

01 - 9 oz halloumi, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 14 oz seedless watermelon, rind removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
03 - 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
04 - 1 small bunch fresh mint leaves, picked

→ Marinade

05 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
07 - 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How-To Steps:

01 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice and several grinds of black pepper in a mixing bowl until combined.
02 - Add the halloumi cubes and red onion pieces to the bowl and toss gently to coat; let rest for 10 minutes to absorb flavor.
03 - Thread ingredients onto skewers, alternating halloumi, watermelon, red onion and mint leaves to distribute flavors evenly; leave a little space between pieces so heat circulates.
04 - Preheat a grill or heavy grill pan to medium-high and brush the grates or pan lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
05 - Place skewers on the hot grill and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning gently, until halloumi is golden with light char marks and watermelon shows slight caramelization; avoid melting the cheese.
06 - Transfer skewers to a platter, garnish with extra mint leaves and serve immediately; if desired, drizzle lightly with honey or swap honey for a balsamic reduction for contrast.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • If you thought halloumi couldn't get any better& just wait until you taste it with sweet melty watermelon.
  • This recipe is my go-to when I want something quick but still impressive at a barbecue.
02 -
  • If you let the halloumi marinate too long it can lose its texture and stick to the grill like glue.
  • I once grilled over too-high heat and learned that char is great& but melted halloumi leaks right through the grate before you can rescue it.
03 -
  • For vibrant grill marks leave the cheese undisturbed for that first minute before gently turning.
  • A fresh spritz of lemon just before serving wakes up every flavor and gives the mint new life.
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