Grilled Halloumi Salad with Watermelon and Mint

This vibrant and refreshing salad is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, with the charred richness of grilled halloumi, the juicy sweetness of watermelon, and the cool freshness of mint. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. Here’s how you can make it.

Ingredients

• 250g halloumi cheese

• 1 small watermelon, cut into cubes

• A handful of fresh mint leaves

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A handful of mixed greens (optional)

• A drizzle of honey (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Grilling the Halloumi

Start by slicing the halloumi into thick slices (about 1cm each). Heat a non-stick grill pan over medium-high heat and brush the halloumi slices with a little olive oil. Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly charred. The crispy exterior and creamy interior create a perfect texture contrast. Once done, set the halloumi aside to cool slightly.

2. Preparing the Watermelon and Mint

While the halloumi is grilling, cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the watermelon perfectly complement the salty, grilled halloumi. Finely chop a handful of fresh mint leaves. Mint not only adds a refreshing kick but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

3. Assembling the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes and mint. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the sweetness of the watermelon. If you want an extra layer of flavor, you can drizzle a small amount of honey over the watermelon for a subtle sweetness.

4. Dressing the Salad

In a small bowl, mix the lime juice with a tablespoon of olive oil. Pour this simple dressing over the watermelon-mint mixture and toss gently to combine. The lime juice adds a zesty, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the watermelon and the richness of the halloumi.

5. Serving

To serve, plate the watermelon-mint mixture, then top with the grilled halloumi slices. You can add some mixed greens for extra texture, though this is optional. Finish with a few more mint leaves for garnish and a final squeeze of lime juice.

Expert Tips

• Halloumi Alternatives: If you can’t find halloumi, you can use grilled feta cheese or any firm cheese that can hold up to grilling.

• Watermelon Varieties: Choose a ripe, sweet watermelon for the best flavor. Seedless varieties work best for this salad.

• Additional Garnishes: For added crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. This will also bring a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.

Why This Salad Works

This Grilled Halloumi Salad with Watermelon and Mint offers the perfect balance of flavors. The salty halloumi enhances the sweetness of the watermelon, while the mint provides a refreshing element that ties everything together. The simplicity of the dressing allows the ingredients to shine, creating a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Conclusion

Grilled Halloumi Salad with Watermelon and Mint is a refreshing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for summer. The combination of textures, from the creamy halloumi to the juicy watermelon, offers a delightful experience in every bite.